Bob Weir, Co-Founder of Grateful Dead, Mourned by Fellow Musicians as 'Last Actual Hippie'
The music world is reeling in grief after the passing of Bob Weir, co-founder of the legendary psychedelic rock band the Grateful Dead. The 67-year-old musician, rhythm guitarist, vocalist and writer of many of the band's iconic songs, died from "underlying lung issues", according to a statement posted on his Instagram account.
Weir was more than just a talented musician; he was a true embodiment of the hippie spirit that defined the 1960s counterculture movement. His music and message continue to inspire fans, known as Deadheads, who followed the band on its tours and attended hundreds of shows. One such fan, Andy Cohen, described Weir as "impossibly beautiful and wildly fiery, intense and passionate".
Trey Anastasio, guitarist of Phish, echoed similar sentiments, saying that Weir was "the last actual hippie". Anastasio had often talked to Weir when he thought the musician was "still one with the universe". Weir's humility and kindness were traits that many musicians admired. Anastasio added: "Bobby was completely allergic to compliments in the most endearing way".
The outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians is a testament to Weir's enduring legacy. Country music artist Margo Price shared images of her performing with Weir, describing him as an "unpretentious" and "musical guru". Singer-songwriter Maggie Rogers wrote that Weir "showed me so much kindness so early in my career... welcomed me into a spirit of making music that has everything to do with community and connection and soul".
Brandi Carlile thanked Weir for helping her career, saying he came to their shows, helped write songs and gave many musicians a chance to perform. Legendary musicians Bob Dylan and Ron Carter also acknowledged Weir's passing, with Dylan posting an image of himself playing alongside Weir on stage.
Weir's death comes after the passing of Phil Lesh, his bassist companion in the Grateful Dead, just over a year ago. The only surviving original members are now drummer Bill Kreutzmann and percussionist Mickey Hart.
As fans continue to mourn the loss of this music icon, his music lives on as a testament to his enduring spirit and legacy.
The music world is reeling in grief after the passing of Bob Weir, co-founder of the legendary psychedelic rock band the Grateful Dead. The 67-year-old musician, rhythm guitarist, vocalist and writer of many of the band's iconic songs, died from "underlying lung issues", according to a statement posted on his Instagram account.
Weir was more than just a talented musician; he was a true embodiment of the hippie spirit that defined the 1960s counterculture movement. His music and message continue to inspire fans, known as Deadheads, who followed the band on its tours and attended hundreds of shows. One such fan, Andy Cohen, described Weir as "impossibly beautiful and wildly fiery, intense and passionate".
Trey Anastasio, guitarist of Phish, echoed similar sentiments, saying that Weir was "the last actual hippie". Anastasio had often talked to Weir when he thought the musician was "still one with the universe". Weir's humility and kindness were traits that many musicians admired. Anastasio added: "Bobby was completely allergic to compliments in the most endearing way".
The outpouring of tributes from fellow musicians is a testament to Weir's enduring legacy. Country music artist Margo Price shared images of her performing with Weir, describing him as an "unpretentious" and "musical guru". Singer-songwriter Maggie Rogers wrote that Weir "showed me so much kindness so early in my career... welcomed me into a spirit of making music that has everything to do with community and connection and soul".
Brandi Carlile thanked Weir for helping her career, saying he came to their shows, helped write songs and gave many musicians a chance to perform. Legendary musicians Bob Dylan and Ron Carter also acknowledged Weir's passing, with Dylan posting an image of himself playing alongside Weir on stage.
Weir's death comes after the passing of Phil Lesh, his bassist companion in the Grateful Dead, just over a year ago. The only surviving original members are now drummer Bill Kreutzmann and percussionist Mickey Hart.
As fans continue to mourn the loss of this music icon, his music lives on as a testament to his enduring spirit and legacy.