The music world is in mourning following the death of Bob Weir, the iconic co-founder, rhythm guitarist and vocalist of the legendary psychedelic rock band, the Grateful Dead. Weir passed away at the age of 78, with a statement confirming his death from "underlying lung issues" posted on Saturday. The news has prompted an outpouring of grief and heartfelt tributes from fellow artists and legions of devoted fans, remembering him as a "musical guru" and "the last actual hippie".
A Chorus of Musical Tributes
Fellow musicians and prominent fans were quick to share their memories and respect for Weir's immense contribution to music. Television personality Andy Cohen, a self-professed Deadhead, recalled his first Grateful Dead show in 1986, describing Weir as "impossibly beautiful and wildly fiery". He noted that while Weir may have been a "speck on the stage" from the crowd, his voice was "fierce and smooth".
Trey Anastasio, lead guitarist of Phish, offered a poignant reflection, stating there were times he believed Weir was "the last actual hippie". He fondly recalled Weir's endearing humility, sharing an anecdote where Weir would deflect compliments about his guitar playing with self-deprecating humour.
The country artist Margo Price celebrated Weir's unpretentious nature and mystical presence, comparing him to a "barefoot philosopher", while bluegrass star Billy Strings cherished personal memories, including Weir performing at his wedding and sharing moments listening to records in silence.
Custodian of a Counter-Cultural Legacy
Bob Weir was a central figure in the Grateful Dead, a band that became the heartbeat of the 1960s and 70s counterculture and spawned the famously dedicated fan community known as Deadheads. As a songwriter, he was responsible for a significant portion of the band's revered catalogue. Following the death of lead guitarist Jerry Garcia in 1995, Weir became a chief custodian of the band's legacy, most recently performing with the successful touring outfit Dead & Company alongside John Mayer.
His influence extended generously to younger artists. Singer-songwriter Maggie Rogers thanked him for showing "so much kindness" early in her career and welcoming her into a spirit of music-making centred on "community and connection". Brandi Carlile expressed gratitude for Weir's support, noting he had time for artists "young and old", helping to write songs and inviting them to share his stage.
The Final Curtain Call
Weir's passing comes just over a year after the death of Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh. The band's only surviving original members are now drummer Bill Kreutzmann and percussionist Mickey Hart. The loss marks the end of an era, but as tributes from Bob Dylan to Ron Carter confirm, the music and the uniquely communal, exploratory spirit Bob Weir championed will, in the words of Andy Cohen, "live gloriously forever".
His recent battle with cancer was survived, but ultimately, underlying lung issues claimed the life of a man who remained, until the end, completely in touch with the Grateful Dead's wild wonder and the profound connection it forged with millions.
