Phil Lesh, founding member and bassist of the iconic band Grateful Dead, passed away at the age of 84, as announced on his official Instagram account. Lesh’s musical journey began in Berkeley, California, where he initially learned to play the classical violin before switching to the electric bass under the guidance of Jerry Garcia. Together, Lesh and Garcia formed the Grateful Dead, a band that blended rock, jazz, and folk into a unique and influential sound.
Lesh’s innovative approach to playing the bass, using a pick to create sounds that echoed the guitar’s spectrum, redefined the role of the instrument in rock music. His virtuosic skill and inventive style made him highly acclaimed in the music world, with artists like Bob Dylan recognizing his talent.
Following the dissolution of the Grateful Dead after 30 years, Lesh continued to keep the band’s spirit alive through his new project, Phil and Friends, where he performed improvisational shows in the Bay Area. Lesh is survived by his wife, Jill, and their two sons, Grahame and Brian.
Tributes poured in for Lesh from fans, fellow musicians, and city officials, recognizing his impact on music and culture. San Francisco Mayor London Breed and the Empire State Building announced gestures to honor Lesh’s legacy, while Chuck D and Martha Quinn expressed their gratitude for his contributions to the music world. Lesh’s passing marks the end of an era but leaves behind a lasting legacy of creativity and love for music.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com