Dead and Company Perform Tribute to Phil Lesh

Dead and Company paid tribute to the late Phil Lesh at Friday's Dead 60 show in San Francisco by bringing out Lesh’s son Grahame for 'Box of Rain.'

Dead and Company Honors Phil Lesh With Special Performance

Dead and Company paid tribute to the late Phil Lesh on the opening night of their Dead 60 anniversary concerts in San Francisco by featuring Lesh’s son Grahame for a performance of 'Box of Rain.' The band, often led by Bob Weir and John Mayer, has infrequently played the classic song, one of Lesh's signatures, since their beginnings in 2015, performing it only once in the last three years. Grahame Lesh, who had led a pre-Dead 60 concert, delivered the lead vocals and played his father's bass. The tribute coincided with Jerry Garcia's birthday and the band’s celebration of the Grateful Dead’s 60th anniversary. Weir shared insights about the band's future without Lesh, noting the unique role Lesh played as a bassist.

This poignant moment underscores the deep connections within the Grateful Dead community and the weight of legacy in music. The performance on Garcia’s birthday added layers of emotion and nostalgia, marking the intersection of past and present. The presence of Grahame Lesh not only honors his father but also symbolizes continuity amid loss. As the band contemplates its future dynamic, fans are left wondering how they will evolve without the distinct contributions of a longstanding member like Phil Lesh. Weir's comments reflect a challenging yet honest understanding of moving forward while keeping the spirit of the music alive.

Highlights

As the legacy of the Grateful Dead continues, the community remains eager for what comes next.