Garth Hudson, the innovative keyboardist and multi-instrumentalist who was the last living member of legendary rock group The Band, has died at age 87. Hudson passed away in his sleep at a nursing home near Woodstock, New York, as confirmed by The Band's official Instagram account on January 21.
Known for his masterful organ work and musical versatility, Hudson helped craft The Band's distinctive sound that blended rock, folk, blues and Americana. His sophisticated keyboard arrangements on classics like "The Weight" and "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down" showcased his classical training and innovative spirit.
Born in Windsor, Ontario, Hudson joined forces with Robbie Robertson, Richard Manuel, Rick Danko, and Levon Helm in the early 1960s as backing musicians for rockabilly artist Ronnie Hawkins. The group, then known as The Hawks, went on to support Bob Dylan before emerging as The Band in 1968 with their debut album "Music from Big Pink."
Hudson's musical contributions extended beyond The Band, as he collaborated with numerous artists including Van Morrison, Leonard Cohen, and Poco. After The Band's initial farewell concert "The Last Waltz" in 1976, he continued performing and recording, including three albums with the reformed Band in the 1990s without Robertson.
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inducted Hudson along with his bandmates in 1994, recognizing their profound influence on American roots music. His final public performance was in April 2023.
Hudson's passing marks the end of an era, following the deaths of his fellow Band members - Manuel in 1986, Danko in 1999, Helm in 2012, and Robertson in 2023. He was preceded in death by his wife Maud in 2022 and is survived by their daughter, Tami Zoe Hill.