Garth Hudson, the revered keyboardist and multi-instrumentalist of The Band, passed away quietly in his sleep on Tuesday at a nursing home near Woodstock, New York. At the age of 87, Hudson was the last surviving member of the legendary group, which was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. Known for his extraordinary musical prowess, Hudson left an indelible mark on the music world.
Born in Windsor, Ontario, Hudson was the oldest and only classically trained musician in The Band. He gained fame for his distinctive Lowrey organ work, particularly on tracks like "Chest Fever" with its dramatic live intro, "The Genetic Method." Hudson's contributions to The Band's unique sound were significant, making him a cornerstone of their timeless music.
"Today, we sadly say goodbye to Garth 'Honey Boy' Hudson, the last living original member of The Band." – The Band's official Instagram page
Hudson was one of four Canadian members of The Band, alongside guitarist-songwriter Robbie Robertson, keyboardist-vocalist Richard Manuel, and bassist-vocalist Rick Danko. After The Band ceased touring, Hudson continued to shape the music industry as a session musician, collaborating with artists such as Van Morrison and Leonard Cohen. His commitment to music extended beyond performance; he was a session artist with Burrito Deluxe and released two albums under their banner.
In addition to his musical endeavors, Hudson formed his own 12-piece ensemble and composed the score for an off-Broadway show. His talents were recognized with numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008. Hudson's influence on The Band's three post-1986 albums was profound, following the tragic passing of Richard Manuel.
"I found some true enjoyment in helping people get to the bottom of their feelings." – Garth Hudson
Hudson's musical genius not only enriched The Band but also empowered fellow musicians. Famously, he persuaded Ronnie Hawkins to pay him an extra $10 a week for "music lessons" to assist other band members in honing their skills. His final public performance came in April 2023, marking the end of an era for fans and musicians alike.
