In the '90s, Stephin Merritt's primary band, The Magnetic Fields, released six albums, climaxing with the three-CD 69 Love Songs.

NPR: The Magnetic Fields: Dourness and 'Distortion'

That song was credited to The Band's primary songwriter, Robbie Robertson, who has said he was inspired by tales of the South from Helm and others.

CNN: Levon Helm, co-founder of The Band, dead at 71

Initially created as a side project while Oberst led the band Commander Venus, Bright Eyes became his primary focus upon Commander Venus' 1997 dissolution.

NPR: Bright Eyes: New Ideas from a 'New Dylan'