Phil Lesh, the bassist and co-founder of the iconic rock band The Grateful Dead, has died at the age of 84. His official Instagram account announced that he “passed peacefully this morning” surrounded by family.
The Grateful Dead, known for their psychedelic sound, formed in California in 1965 and disbanded 30 years later after the death of lead singer Jerry Garcia. Lesh was with the band from its inception and reunited with surviving members for a U.S. tour in 2003, as well as a final series of concerts in 2015.
Lesh’s Instagram post emphasized that he “brought immense joy to everyone around him and leaves behind a legacy of music and love,” requesting privacy for the Lesh family during this time.
With their unique fusion of rock, folk, and jazz, The Grateful Dead are considered one of the most influential bands in American history, crafting the soundtrack for the countercultural movement of the 1960s. Born in Berkeley, California, in 1940, Lesh began as a violinist, switched to trumpet, and ultimately found his place as a bassist with the band in 1965.
For three decades, his improvisational style complemented the melodies of lead guitarist Jerry Garcia and fellow bandmates Bob Weir, Bill Kreutzmann, and Ron “Pigpen” McKernan. He was especially known for “Unbroken Chain,” which reflected the band’s bond with their audience, and for the poignant “Box of Rain,” written during his father’s illness.
Devoted fans, known as “Deadheads,” often followed the band on their tours, recording concerts to share with others around the world. Despite their massive fanbase, the band achieved only one top 10 hit in the U.S. with “Touch of Grey” in 1987.
While the cause of Lesh’s death is currently unknown, he faced various health challenges throughout his life. In 2015, he revealed he was being treated for bladder cancer; prior to that, he underwent prostate cancer surgery in 2006 and successfully recovered. He also had a liver transplant in 1998 and became a strong advocate for organ donation.
Lesh is survived by his wife, Jill, and their two sons.
A loyal fanbase of Deadheads paved the way for Lesh and the band’s success
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