‘Sitting Bull’ Features Some of Robbie Robertson’s Last Music

The History Channel’s upcoming two-part docuseries Sitting Bull traces the epic life of the legendary Lakota chief as he fights for his people’s freedom, unifies warring Native nations against the U.S. government’s efforts to steal their land, battles U.S. Army Gen. George Armstrong Custer, and makes history at the Battle of Cedar Creek in 1876.

The story is told through interviews with experts and scripted re-creations of historic events featuring Kul Wičaša Lakota actor Michael Spears as Sitting Bull. It’s narrated by Yellowstone‘s Mo Brings Plenty, and executive-produced by Leonardo DiCaprio.

The first chapter of Sitting Bull premieres Tuesday, May 27, on the History Channel, and the second one airs the following night. Check out an exclusive trailer right here.

For the musical score, the Sitting Bull creative team turned to Sebastian Robertson and his father, Robbie Robertson. “We were thrilled by the prospect and dove right in,” Sebastian Robertson tells Rolling Stone. “This was a complicated time in our lives as my dad’s health was declining. However, like for a lot of us, the art of music was an escape.”

Sebastian started the composition on his own, and then shared his progress with his father. “Trust me when I tell you he was a tough critic,” says Sebastian. “The inspiration of this project, my heritage and honoring both my culture and my father, kicked me into the highest gear. He was thrilled with the demo. We batted ideas, guitar licks, and vocals back and forth until we were satisfied and sent it along to production. We nailed it.”

It was one of the final projects that Robbie Roberston took on before his death in August 2023. And Sebastian finished it on his own. “Still by my side and breathing wisdom and artistry into my final choices, my dad and I created what will always be one of my proudest and most memorable compositions,” he says. “Harnessing the words of his mother, our people, and the rhythm of our lives in all existences, we created our final piece of music together … or maybe, just maybe, there’s more to come. I love you, Rob. And I have the deepest of gratitude for the Sitting Bull team for making this happen.”