Garth Hudson, the virtuoso multi-instrumentalist best known for his distinctive organ and saxophone work with the Band, died early Tuesday morning at the age of 87. Hudson's passing, which occurred on January 21, 2025, at the Ten Broeck Center for Rehabilitation & Nursing in Woodstock, New York, was confirmed by his longtime friend Jan Haust. While the cause of death was not disclosed, Haust noted, "He died peacefully and yesterday was a day of music and hand-holding."
Born on August 3, 1937, in London, Ontario, Garth Hudson was nurtured by musical parents, which laid the foundation for his prodigious talent. A child prodigy, Hudson disassembled and rebuilt his father's old pump organ and was playing accordion by the age of 12. His versatility and creativity eventually led him to join rockabilly veteran Ronnie Hawkins and his band, the Hawks, which included future Band members Robbie Robertson, Levon Helm, Richard Manuel, and Rick Danko.
When Hudson joined the Hawks, he brought with him the distinctive sound of his modified Lowrey organ. This instrument would become integral to his signature style and to the sound of the Band. The group's affiliation with Bob Dylan during the mid-1960s transformed their careers. Hudson’s ornamented fills and inventive solos provided depth to Dylan's lyrical poetry, contributing to timeless classics recorded during era-defining sessions.
Hudson’s contributions to the Band can hardly be overstated. From their groundbreaking albums, Music From Big Pink and The Band, to their epic farewell concert documented in The Last Waltz, Hudson's unique style and refined musicianship made him one of rock's foundational figures. Robbie Robertson once remarked, "There’s no question in my mind Garth was far and away the most advanced musician in rock & roll." This accolade highlights Hudson's unparalleled influence on both his contemporaries and the musicians who came after him.
The musician’s innovative organ technique is perhaps most famously exemplified during the extended improvisation at the beginning of the song "Chest Fever," where he melded jazz, classical, and R&B influences. His penchant for experimentation extended beyond the Lowrey organ, incorporating saxophones and other instruments throughout his career, especially evident during live performances.
Yet, Hudson's life was marked by challenges as well; he faced financial troubles and health issues later on. Despite these struggles, his resilience shone through. Hudson continued to play with newer generations of musicians, including collaborations with Wilco, Norah Jones, and Neko Case. His ability to connect with young artists reflected both his lasting talent and admiration within the music community.
The Band reformed multiple times after disbanding, and Hudson remained active throughout various incarnations, contributing to new projects even as the group faced internal disputes and losses with the passing of fellow members. He played at the funeral of bandmate Manuel, performing sacred hymns on organ, which underscored his emotional connection to his music and bandmates.
Today, as the rock world mourns the loss of this iconic figure, Hudson's musical legacy lives on through his prolific contributions and distinctive keyboard work. The Band's music reshaped the sound of rock and laid the groundwork for Americana music, with Hudson as one of its chief architects.
Reflecting on his life, Hudson once said, "The wonderful thing in working with Dylan was the imagery in his lyrics. I was allowed to play with these words." This sentiment reveals not only his exceptional talent but also his deep commitment to the artistry behind the music he helped create. Hudson's innovative spirit and dedication will forever echo through the annals of music history, serving as inspiration for countless musicians around the globe.