Country Artists We’ve Lost in 2012: Levon Helm

The loss of Levon Helm in April wasn't made easier by the fact that his fans and family knew the end was near. The famous drummer and leader of the Band was battling throat cancer. A statement made by his guitarist shared that all of his friends were on hand to see him slip into the afterlife. Helm released an Americana album that won a Grammy, but perhaps his most direct connection to country music (aside from being an inspiration to many) was playing Loretta Lynn's father in the 1980 film 'Coal Miner's Daughter.'