Robbie Robertson to Be Inducted Into Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame

Robbie Robertson, respected musician and driving force behind iconic Canadian rock group the Band, will be inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame later this year. His inclusion marks a turning point for the Canadian institution, which has also honoured legends like Paul Anka.

"In past years, the CSHF has inducted specific songs from Canadian songwriters, but we felt it was also important to acknowledge their entire portfolio of songs, and their overall contributions as Canadian songwriters and storytellers," said Sylvia Tyson, CSHF President and one-half of famed folk duo Ian & Sylvia, in a press release today.

Robertson, who has penned such classic songs as 'The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down,' 'The Weight,' 'Up on Cripple Creek' and 'Broken Arrow,' will be honoured for his accomplishments and songwriting legacy at the CSHF's annual gala April 2 in Toronto.

This latest distinction rounds out an already impressive list of honours for Robertson, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Academy of Songwriters and star on Canada's Walk of Fame, as well as the Governor General's Award for Lifetime Artistic Achievement. As a member of the Band -- a group that came into prominence backing Bob Dylan during his 1966 tour -- Robertson has been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Canadian Music Hall of Fame.

Watch a Clip from a documentary on The Band