Garth Hudson, the legendary musician whose eclectic skills helped shape the sound of The Band, died on Tuesday in Woodstock, N.Y. He was 87 and the last original member of the iconic group that rose to fame in the 1960s and ’70s. Hudson was more than just an organ player. A true musical jack-of-all-trades, he mastered instruments like the saxophone, accordion, French horn, and even the violin. His versatility added a unique texture to The Band’s music, blending rock, r&b, and country into a sound that felt both timeless and fresh. During the group’s heyday, Hudson was the brains behind the recording setup in a small pink house in Saugerties, N.Y., where Bob Dylan and The Band famously created what’s now known as the *Basement Tapes*. He also arranged much of The Band’s music, adding brass, woodwinds, and other intricate touches that made their albums stand out. The Band became known for their collaborative spirit, with contributions from guitarist Robbie Robertson, drummer Levon Helm, and singers Rick Danko and Richard Manuel. But it was Hudson’s musical depth and technical know-how that critics and bandmates alike credited with taking their work to the next level. Hudson’s passing marks the end of an era for one of the most influential groups in rock history. His legacy lives on in the rich, layered sound of The Band—a sound that continues to inspire musicians and fans around the world. Rest in peace, Garth Hudson. Your music will forever echo.