The Grateful Dead legend Phil Lesh died Friday at the age of 84. His death was announced on his official Instagram page. “Phil Lesh, bassist and founding member of The Grateful Dead, passed peacefully this morning,” the statement reads.
“He was surrounded by his family and full of love.” A post shared by Phil Lesh (@phillesh) NEW YORK – OCTOBER 14: Bob Weir (L) and Phil Lesh of the Grateful Dead attend the signing of “Rocking The Cradle: Egypt 1978” at Best Buy on October 14, 2008 in New York City. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images) The statement went on to pay tribute to Lesh’s talents and contributions to the world of music over his decades-long career.
“Phil brought immense joy to everyone around him and leaves behind a legacy of music and love. We request that you respect the Lesh family’s privacy at this time,” the statement said. Lesh began his musical journey as a classically trained trumpeter.
He studied with avant-garde composer Luciano Berio and played with minimalist pioneer Steve Reich when he was recruited to play bass, according to Variety . His skills on bass were an integral part of The Grateful Dead’s early albums for Warner Bros. Records.
Bassist Phil Lesh performing with American rock group The Grateful Dead, at the Woodstock Music Festival, Bethel, New York, 16th August 1969. (Photo by Archive Photos/Getty Images) He was credited for co-writing “St. Stephen,” “The Eleven” and the epic hit “Dark Star,” which became a.
