Garth Hudson Obituary, Death: Last surviving member of The Band passes away at 87.
– Garth Hudson, the renowned keyboardist and multi-instrumentalist, and the last surviving member of The Band, has passed away at 87. His manager confirmed Hudson’s death, which occurred peacefully in his sleep early Tuesday at a nursing home near Woodstock, New York.
The Band’s official Instagram page released a heartfelt statement, expressing their sorrow at Hudson’s passing: “Today, we sadly say goodbye to Garth ‘Honey Boy’ Hudson, the last living original member of The Band. A musical genius and cornerstone of the group’s timeless sound, Garth once said, ‘I found some true enjoyment in helping people get to the bottom of their feelings.’ Through his music, he did just that – helping us all feel more deeply and connect to something greater. Rest easy, Garth.”
Hudson, born in Windsor, Ontario, was the oldest and the only classically trained member of The Band. He was celebrated for his distinctive Lowrey organ performances, particularly on tracks like “Chest Fever,” featuring its memorable live intro known as “The Genetic Method.” Besides the organ, Hudson showcased his versatility by playing saxophones, woodwinds, synthesizers, accordion, and other instruments on the group’s albums.
Hudson, along with fellow Canadians Robbie Robertson, Richard Manuel, and Rick Danko, joined American drummer Levon Helm to form The Band after their stint as Ronnie Hawkins’ backing group, The Hawks. His parents, concerned about his musical path, were convinced when Hudson persuaded Hawkins to pay him extra for “music lessons” to justify his classical training.
The Band initially gained fame as Bob Dylan’s backing group before debuting their own album, Music from Big Pink, in 1968. After a significant career, The Band ceased touring after their legendary concert, “The Last Waltz,” in 1976. Hudson continued his musical journey, collaborating with artists like Van Morrison and Leonard Cohen.
The Band reformed in 1983 without Robertson, and despite Manuel’s death in 1986, they continued producing albums in the 1990s. Hudson remained active in music, contributing to solo projects of his bandmates and film soundtracks. The Band’s journey concluded with Danko’s death in 1999.
In his later years, Hudson remained a sought-after session artist, released albums with Burrito Deluxe, led his own ensemble, and composed a score for an off-Broadway show. His last public appearance was in April 2023.
Hudson’s contributions to music were formally recognized when he and The Band were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1994 and received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008. Hudson’s legacy as a pivotal figure in rock history will continue to inspire future generations.
