Garth Hudson, Master Organist and Last Surviving Member of The Band, Dies at 87

Jan 21, 2025, 05:22 PM

Garth Hudson, the last surviving founding member of The Band, died on Tuesday morning at age 87. Hudson, a master instrumentalist and multi-instrumentalist known for his virtuosic organ playing and contributions to The Band's distinctive roots-rock sound, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Woodstock, New York. Born Eric Garth Hudson on August 2, 1937, in Windsor, Ontario, he was instrumental in shaping the music of The Band, contributing to classics such as "Up on Cripple Creek," "The Weight," and "Rag Mama Rag." He was known for his unique approach to the organ and his ability to play a range of instruments, including keyboard, accordion, woodwinds, and brass. His longtime friend and colleague Jan Haust confirmed his death, stating that "he died peacefully" and that "yesterday was a day of music and hand-holding." Hudson's innovative use of the Lowrey organ and his blending of various musical styles made him one of the most influential keyboardists in rock history. The Band was one of the most influential rock groups of the 1960s and '70s.