‘Musical genius’ Garth Hudson, last surviving member of The Band, dies at 87

Garth Hudson, the pioneering Canadian musician best known for his role as the keyboardist of The Band, has sadly passed away at the age of 87.

A master of multiple instruments, Hudson’s innovative playing on the organ, accordion, and synthesizers helped shape the distinctive sound of The Band.

The official Instagram page for The Band announced his passing with a moving tribute to “a musical genius and cornerstone of the group’s timeless sound”.

“Today, we sadly say goodbye to Garth “Honey Boy” Hudson, the last living original member of The Band,” the statement read.

“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.”

 

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Born in Windsor, Ontario, on August 2, 1937, Hudson’s early exposure to music, from classical piano lessons to playing accordion and organ at his church and uncle’s funeral parlour, laid the foundation for a groundbreaking career.

Hudson joined The Hawks in 1961, the band that would later become The Band, after a brief stint with the group Paul London and the Capers. He soon became known for his virtuosity on the Lowrey organ, a key element of The Band’s sound.

His contributions to the group’s landmark albums—Music from Big Pink, The Band, and The Last Waltz—included unforgettable organ lines, such as on “Chest Fever,” as well as his distinctive accordion and saxophone work. Hudson’s innovative use of synthesizers, clavinet, and brass helped define The Band’s eclectic mix of rock, Americana, and blues.

After The Band broke up in 1976, Hudson continued to collaborate with a diverse range of artists, including Van Morrison, Emmylou Harris, and Leonard Cohen. He also ventured into solo projects, releasing his debut album, The Sea to the North, in 2001.

Hudson’s later years saw him performing and recording with various artists, as well as honouring The Band’s legacy with the 2010 album A Canadian Celebration of the Band. Though he remained relatively private, his musical impact was immense. Hudson was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994 and was celebrated as one of the most innovative and influential musicians of his generation.

Following his passing, fellow music heavyweights joined fans in paying tribute to the “musical genius”.

In Memoriam (1/3): As a master of the organ, piano, accordion, and saxophone, 1994 Inductee Garth Hudson was a key architect of the sound of @TheBandOfficial, one of the most influential rock groups of all time. With the classically trained Hudson contributing unique sounds… pic.twitter.com/Lk1H6NIQzk

— Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (@rockhall) January 21, 2025

Garth Hudson, the virtuoso organist whose unique touch defined the roots-rock sound of The Band, has passed away at 87. A quiet genius, he was the last living member of the legendary group and hard to believe they’re all gone. pic.twitter.com/tU2ckSCudY

— Eric Alper 🎧 (@ThatEricAlper) January 21, 2025

“He could’ve been playing with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra or with Miles Davis, but he was with us, and we were lucky to have him.” – Robbie Robertson

Today, we say goodbye to Garth “Honey Boy” Hudson. A true genius who helped shape The Band’s sound. Rest in peace, Garth. pic.twitter.com/JqgcyhqdXH

— Robbie Robertson (@r0bbier0berts0n) January 21, 2025

Rest in peace, Garth Hudson.

Our neighbor and friend; a musical genius who lived and listened on another plane.

Love to everyone here who feels like I do about The Band.

Portrait by Garth’s old friend John Scheele, last year.https://t.co/eo130jtJGJ pic.twitter.com/xfRCtTqNUl

— Anne Margaret Daniel 🌻 (@venetianblonde) January 21, 2025

Rest in peace, Garth Hudson🌹

As one of the original founders of The Band, Garth Hudson, alongside Rick Danko, Richard Manuel, Robbie Robertson, and Levon Helm, inspired several musicians, including the Grateful Dead. The two bands shared the stage on multiple occasions, notably… pic.twitter.com/NtFEgAEUkB

— Grateful Dead (@GratefulDead) January 21, 2025

While his passing marks the end of an era, his music will no doubt continue to inspire for generations to come.