Phil Lesh, bassist and founding member of iconic rock band Grateful Dead, has died. He was 84. The news was announced on Lesh’s verified Instagram on Friday, which said he died “peacefully” on Friday morning.
“He was surrounded by his family and full of love. Phil brought immense joy to everyone around him and leaves behind a legacy of music and love,” the announcement read. “We request that you respect the Lesh family’s privacy at this time.”
Born on March 15, 1940, in Berkeley, California, Lesh started his musical journey as a classical violinist and then studied trumpet at the University of California, Berkeley, and later at the San Francisco State College. However, he switched to bass when he joined the Grateful Dead in 1965, despite having no experience with the instrument.
Lesh’s background in classical and avant-garde music heavily influenced his unique approach to bass playing. Instead of following traditional bass lines, he played melodically, treating the bass as an instrument that could weave intricate lines rather than simply providing rhythm. His improvisational style became a core element of the Dead’s signature sound, especially in their live performances.
Phil Lesh remained with the Grateful Dead until the band’s final tour in 1995, following the death of lead guitarist Jerry Garcia. Since then, Lesh has continued to perform and record music, leading his own band, Phil Lesh and Friends, which explores both Grateful Dead classics and new material. He has also collaborated with numerous musicians across genres, contributing to the legacy of improvisational rock.
Lesh operated a music venue called Terrapin Crossroads. From 2009 to 2014, he performed in Furthur alongside former Grateful Dead bandmate Bob Weir. He scaled back his touring regimen in 2014 but continued to perform with the Lesh family band, Phil, Cory, Heidi, and Joseph Lesh through early 2024. Below is a collection of 30 photos of a young Phil Lesh in the 1960s and 1970s:
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