History of Leon Redbone in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 29, 2024

Leon Redbone, known for his signature hat, sunglasses, and tie, was a musician specializing in early 20th-century American music genres like jazz, blues, and Tin Pan Alley. Of Armenian descent, he began performing in Toronto in the 1970s and later gained recognition through film and television appearances.

1910: End of Tin Pan Alley's peak era

Leon Redbone favored music from the Tin Pan Alley era, which lasted from approximately 1890 to 1910, showcasing his appreciation for early 20th-century music.

1948: Leon Redbone's parents flee Jerusalem

In 1948, Leon Redbone's parents left Jerusalem due to the volatile political situation, eventually settling in Nicosia, Cyprus.

August 26, 1949: Birth of Leon Redbone

Leon Redbone, born Dickran Gobalian, was born on August 26, 1949. He was a celebrated musician known for his unique blend of jazz, blues, and Tin Pan Alley classics.

1961: Leon Redbone's family moves to London

Leon Redbone's family relocated to London, England in 1961, marking a significant move in his early life.

1965: Leon Redbone's family moves to Toronto

In 1965, Leon Redbone's family settled in Toronto, Canada, where he would later begin his music career.

1972: Leon Redbone meets Bob Dylan

At the Mariposa Folk Festival in 1972, Leon Redbone met Bob Dylan, who was deeply impressed by his performance. This encounter had a significant impact on Redbone's career.

1975: Release of Leon Redbone's debut album

Leon Redbone released his first album, "On the Track", in 1975 under Warner Bros. Records, marking a pivotal step in his musical journey.

1978: "Seduced" featured in "The Big Fix"

Leon Redbone's song "Seduced" was prominently featured in the 1978 film "The Big Fix", illustrating his reach into the world of cinema.

February 12, 1979: Leon Redbone survives a plane crash

On February 12, 1979, Leon Redbone survived a plane crash in Clarksburg, West Virginia. This incident led him to opt for travel by car for future engagements.

1988: Leon Redbone in "Candy Mountain"

Leon Redbone showcased his acting skills in the 1988 film "Candy Mountain", demonstrating his versatility as an entertainer.

1991: Leon Redbone discusses his musical philosophy

In a 1991 interview, Leon Redbone emphasized his deep interest in history and his passion for reinterpreting the past through his music.

2003: Leon Redbone in "Elf"

Leon Redbone made a memorable appearance in the 2003 film "Elf", singing "Baby, It's Cold Outside" with Zooey Deschanel and providing the voice of Leon the Snowman.

2011: Leon Redbone narrates "Remembering the Scranton Sirens"

Leon Redbone lent his voice to narrate the 2011 Emmy Award-winning documentary "Remembering the Scranton Sirens", contributing to the preservation of musical history.

May 19, 2015: Leon Redbone announces retirement

Citing health concerns, Leon Redbone announced his retirement from both performing and recording on May 19, 2015, marking the end of an era for the iconic musician.

2017: Dan Levinson discusses working with Leon Redbone

In a 2017 interview, clarinetist Dan Levinson shared insights into his experience collaborating with Leon Redbone, highlighting Redbone's unique musical approach.

2018: Release of "Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone"

"Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone," a short documentary film about Leon Redbone, was released in 2018. Directed by Mako Funasaka, Liam Romalis, and Jason Charters, the film offered a glimpse into the life and career of the enigmatic musician.