Garth Hudson, who died at 87, was the last surviving original member of the Band, renowned for his intricate Lowrey organ contributions. A musical polymath, Hudson could play various instruments and was instrumental in arranging the group's music and recording sessions. He maintained the technical aspects of their recording setup, greatly enhancing the authenticity of their sound. Colleagues and critics recognized Hudson's pivotal role in transforming the Band from local musicians into one of the most significant rock groups of the late 20th century, distinct for its authentic roots amidst an era of psychedelia.
Mr. Hudson did far more than play the organ... he was a musical polymath whose work room at home included arcana like sheet music for century-old standards and hymns.
He arranged the music on the group's albums and painstakingly tweaked and honed its recordings, adding brass, woodwinds and eclectic flourishes that accentuated the group's homespun authenticity.
Critics and his fellow band members agreed that Mr. Hudson played an essential role in raising the group to another level entirely.
He was the last surviving original member of the Band, and his intricate swirls of Lowrey organ helped elevate the Band from rollicking juke-joint refugees into one of the most resonant and influential rock groups.
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