Nows and Forevers

Still thinking about the passing this week of Garth Hudson, the last surviving member of one of my favorites, The Band.

This gem is from a ’90s documentary about The Band, and how they made “Up on Cripple Creek.” I’m fascinated by the creative process and how it all comes together, especially in writing but also in music. This focuses mostly on the great Levon Helm and Garth Hudson, whose “funky Clavinet” stars on this track. But Robbie Robertson picks apart the tracks and what you don’t hear too much is the merry-go-round music that Garth Hudson is playing in between the Clavinet.

“Quick on the draw,” Robertson smiles.

It’s only about five minutes but it’s worth every moment.