Search Results for: statement

Garth Hudson of The Band died on Tuesday as confirmed by a statement on the music band’s official Instagram page. The post rightfully called Garth a musical genius and cornerstone of the group’s timeless sound. He died at 87 as the oldest member of The Band and the last to pass away, and though the cause of his death was not mentioned, he reportedly died in his sleep at a nursing home in Woodstock, New York. Fans have taken to The Group’s social media comments section to pay tribute to the talented instrumentalist, who added a unique touch to hits like “The Weight” and “Rag Mama Rag.” Garth Hudson was the only one among five bandmates who did not sing; however, his prowess with multiple instruments could not be overlooked. He was a genius with synthesizers, the piano, horns, accordion, the Lowrey organ, and a few others. His appearance, featuring a big white beard and a confident stance, made him stand out despite playing a background role in The Band. His undeniable prowess and range with musical organs made him sought after as he performed with the likes of Elton John. Garth Hudson’s career with The Band and beyond Garth Hudson/Instagram The late Canada-born talent began his music career as a teenager after dropping out of the University of Western Ontario, where he studied music for a year. In 1956, he joined his first group — The Silhouettes, where he majorly played the saxophone and piano. He also became interested in the Lowrey organ during this period. He finally got the instrument as an incentive for joining The Hawks, which would later be known as The Band. There was Levon Helm, Rick Danko, Richard Manuel, Robbie Robertson and Ronnie Hawkins, who used the rest of the group as his backing band. The Band/Instagram Several projects later, including a few collaborations with Bob Dylan, The Band started to dissolve in the ‘90s, starting with Robbie’s exit and Richard’s death by suicide in the mid-80s. The 2000s saw Garth focusing on his solo career with the release of The Sea To The North the same day as the 9/11 attacks. He later formed Best! with his late wife, Maud, who did the vocals. Garth continued to work with renowned musicians and as a session player, and his last public appearance was at 2023’s Flower Hill House Concert No. 6 in Kingston, New York. Garth Hudson/Instagram Fans react to the news of Garth Hudson’s passing The Band/Instagram As the news of Garth’s death hit social media on Tuesday, tributes have been pouring in from fans and fellow celebrities online. “Today, we sadly say goodbye to Garth ‘Honey Boy’ Hudson, the last living original member of The Band,” The Band’s Instagram post read, quoting Garth’s famous line about finding 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,” they added. Garth Hudson/Instagram The statement was accompanied by a carousel of photos showing young Garth in his element with instruments like the violin, the keyboard, and the saxophone. “He was and still is one of the all time greatest. What a treasure we were allowed to share,” someone gushed. “The Band is together now, over yonder in the great blue sky, playing and rockin’. Rest in peace,” another penned, while a third fan echoed that it is hard to comprehend how all members of The Band are all gone. While Richard hanged himself in 1986, Rick, like Garth, passed away in his sleep in 1999. Levon died of cancer in 2012, while Robertson died in 2023 after a long-running illness. Garth was recognized for his work during his lifetime, earning multiple awards and accolades, including a Grammy and several inductions in the Music Hall of Fame.