Phil Lesh dies aged 84: Grateful Dead bassist and founding member passes away as tributes paid

Phil Lesh dies aged 84: Grateful Dead bassist and founding member passes away as tributes paid

As a lifelong Deadhead, I am deeply saddened by the news of Phil Lesh’s passing. The man was not just a bassist; he was the heart and soul of one of the most iconic bands in music history – The Grateful Dead. His music has been the soundtrack of my life for as long as I can remember, and his influence on the world of rock ‘n’ roll is immeasurable.


Grateful Dead icon Phil Lesh has died aged 84.

On Friday, October 25, the original bassist of the rock band passed away peacefully, as stated in a post on his Instagram account.

This morning, Phil Lesh, the founding bassist of The Grateful Dead, passed away peacefully.

He was enveloped by his loved ones, overflowing with affection. Phil’s presence radiated happiness, and he leaves an enduring legacy marked by music and love.

‘We request that you respect the Lesh family’s privacy at this time.’

The specific reason for his demise remains undiscovered at present. However, he had fought cancer not once but twice – prostate cancer in the year 2006 and bladder cancer in 2015.

Phil Lesh dies aged 84: Grateful Dead bassist and founding member passes away as tributes paid

Phil Lesh dies aged 84: Grateful Dead bassist and founding member passes away as tributes paid
Phil Lesh dies aged 84: Grateful Dead bassist and founding member passes away as tributes paid

As a lifestyle connoisseur, I take pride in being recognized for my role as a co-founder of a groundbreaking rock band back in 1965. Over the years, our music has evolved into something that resonates globally and is now considered one of the world’s most impactful bands.

The original line-up was Lesh, Bob Weir, Ron “Pigpen” McKernan, Bill Kreutzmann, and Jerry Garcia.

Originating as a five-piece band playing folk music during the psychedelic ’60s in San Francisco, the Grateful Dead gradually transformed into a powerful cultural force and one of the most accomplished touring groups ever.

Driven by the lively ambiance of their roaming Deadhead audience, who were passionate about taping shows and appreciating live performances more than studio recordings, the Grateful Dead have transcended various generations and continue to be extremely popular.

The original lead guitarist and co-founder, Jerry Garcia, passed away in 1995; however, the band persisted nearly uninterrupted with various lineups, continuing to tour extensively.

Speaking about the enduring nature of their music, drummer Mickey Hart explained, “There are many components that make it up.” He added, “Our audience says that our concerts feel like a familiar place. It provides them with a sense of connection, community, joy, and love for life and music.

At present, they go by Dead & Company, with John Mayer stepping into the role previously held by Jerry Garcia. They recently held a residence at The Sphere in the vibrant city of Las Vegas.

Following their breakup in 1995, Phil Lesh established a side project called Phil Lesh and Friends, where they performed tunes from the Grateful Dead as well as compositions of their own.

Phil Lesh dies aged 84: Grateful Dead bassist and founding member passes away as tributes paid
Phil Lesh dies aged 84: Grateful Dead bassist and founding member passes away as tributes paid
Phil Lesh dies aged 84: Grateful Dead bassist and founding member passes away as tributes paid

He also ran his own music venue called Terrapin Crossroads.

In 1999 and 2000, he co-headlined two tours with Bob Dylan.

Back in October 2006, Lesh disclosed that he had received a diagnosis of prostate cancer, the very illness that claimed his father’s life.

In December 2006 he stated he had undergone surgery and the cancer was removed.  

In 2009 he went back on tour with Grateful Dead. 

From 2009-2014 he performed with Weir in Furthur.

In his final years he performed with the Lesh family band – alongside Cory, Heidi and Joseph Lesh.

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2024-10-25 23:18

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