Overview

Eric Garth Hudson CM (August 2, 1937 – January 21, 2025) was a Canadian multi-instrumentalist best known as the keyboardist and occasional saxophonist for the rock band The Band, for which he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. He was a principal architect of the group’s sound. Hudson’s Lowrey organ, from which he could coax a variety of sounds, from gospel to classical, was a centerpiece of the Band’s sound. He was described as “the most brilliant organist in the rock world” by Keyboard magazine. Hudson was the last living original member of The Band. Beyond his work with The Band, Hudson enjoyed a varied career as a session musician, solo artist, and musical collaborator, working with artists ranging from Bob Dylan to Neko Case. His vast musical knowledge and unconventional approach to arrangement and composition earned him recognition as one of rock’s most respected instrumentalists.
What Is Garth Hudson’s Net Worth?

What Is Garth Hudson’s Net Worth?

At the time of his passing on January 21, 2025, Garth Hudson, the celebrated Canadian musician best known as a founding member of The Band, had a reported net worth of $250,000. This figure reflects a career spanning several decades, marked by both musical innovation and financial challenges. Despite his significant contributions to rock music, Hudson faced multiple bankruptcies and financial setbacks, as noted by instances such as the 2013 incident where a former landlord sold his personal belongings without his consent.

Garth Hudson’s Financial Overview

Garth Hudson’s financial journey was complex, marked by both significant musical achievements and considerable economic difficulties. While specific details regarding the breakdown of his assets (such as royalties, investments, or real estate holdings) are not publicly available, the $250,000 net worth provides a snapshot of his financial status at the end of his life. It’s important to note that income for musicians often fluctuates based on album sales, touring schedules, session work, and royalty payments. Details regarding his specific earnings from these sources remain private. He had financial troubles throughout his life which led to the aforementioned bankruptcy filings and the 2013 incident. This incident involved a one-time landlord selling off all of Hudson’s possessions without permission. Details regarding the possessions, their value, and the aftermath of this incident are unavailable.

Career Highlights and Earnings

Hudson’s career began to gain traction in 1961 when he joined Ronnie Hawkins’ backing band, The Hawks. Though his initial salary was modest, he was also designated as the band’s “music instructor”, offering formal training in music theory to his bandmates. Details about his specific income during this period are not publicly available. When The Hawks transitioned into The Band and began their collaboration with Bob Dylan in 1965-66, Hudson’s earnings likely increased. However, specific figures for royalties or session fees from albums like “Music from Big Pink” (1968) and “The Band” (1969) are not readily accessible. His work with The Band resulted in a string of successful albums, including “Music from Big Pink” and “The Band,” which were pivotal in defining the Americana sound. It is known that “The Last Waltz,” The Band’s farewell concert movie released in 1978, generated substantial revenue, but details of individual earnings for band members from this project are not public. After The Band’s initial breakup, Hudson continued his career as a session musician and released solo albums. His 2001 album, “The Sea to the North,” did contribute to his income, though specific sales figures and royalty earnings are not publicly documented.

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