Phil Lesh, the founding bassist of the Grateful Dead, passed away Friday morning at the age of 84, as announced on his official Instagram account. The post revealed that Lesh “passed peacefully” surrounded by his family, and requested privacy for the family during this difficult time.
Born and raised in Berkeley, California, Lesh began his musical journey playing the classical violin before transitioning to the trumpet. He drew inspiration from influential composers and musicians, including Karlheinz Stockhausen and Steve Reich.
According to his memoir, “Searching for the Sound: My Life in the Grateful Dead,” Lesh met Jerry Garcia in 1959, and after a second meeting in 1964, he joined a band called The Warlocks as their bassist. He adapted to playing the electric bass at Garcia’s suggestion, and together they formed the Grateful Dead, which gradually became known for its unique blend of rock, jazz, and folk elements.
The band’s inaugural performance was at Frenchy’s Bikini-A-Go-Go in Hayward, California, with a mere three attendees in the audience. Over time, the Grateful Dead became emblematic of American counterculture, collaborating with figures like author Ken Kesey during iconic “Acid Test” parties.
Lesh’s innovative bass playing style was influential in reshaping the band’s sound, utilizing techniques that positioned the bass as a lead instrument. Esteemed musician Bob Dylan praised Lesh’s subtlety and creativity in his 2022 book, “The Philosophy of Modern Song.”
In remembrance of Lesh, San Francisco Mayor London Breed announced that City Hall would be illuminated in his honor. The Empire State Building also indicated it would light up in tie-dye colors to celebrate Lesh’s life and legacy. Soldier Field in Chicago, the site of the Grateful Dead’s last performance with Garcia, offered thanks for the memories, while hip-hop artist Chuck D remarked on Lesh’s contributions to music.
Lesh is survived by his wife Jill and their two sons, Grahame and Brian.