Phil Lesh was a spaceman

Story by Stephen Thomas Erlewine. October 26, 2024.

He pushed the band into the unknown. He channeled his love of improvisatory jazz, contemporary classical music and technology into their music, ensuring that the rock-and-roll he played reflected his obsessions. Thanks to Lesh, the Dead were liberated from the three-chord shuffle from the start.

  • Phil Lesh’s Unique Influence: Lesh brought his background in classical music and jazz to the Grateful Dead, pushing the band into new musical territories.
  • Studio and Stage Contributions: He was instrumental in the band’s experimental studio work and live performances, particularly with the “Wall of Sound.”
  • Personal Struggles and Triumphs: Lesh faced challenges, including alcoholism, but later re-emerged as a sober family man.
  • Legacy and Later Years: After the Grateful Dead disbanded, Lesh continued to innovate with Phil Lesh and Friends, focusing on intimate performances and creative exploration.

Lesh’s decision to not participate in Dead & Company suggested that he found sustenance not in the Dead itself but rather the band’s ethos: the idea that a group of mismatched musicians could stumble their way toward the sublime. By pushing the Grateful Dead toward new, unheard vistas, Lesh demonstrated what could be possible within rock-and-roll — not just the outer reaches of “Space” that he encouraged in the group’s famous improvised jams, but by turning inward on compositions “Box of Rain” and “Unbroken Chain,” songs that exhibited an emotional intelligence uncommon in rock.

Phil Lesh’s Bass Anchored, Stretched the Grateful Dead

Story by Bob Cronin. October 25, 2024.

  • Phil Lesh’s Passing: Phil Lesh, a founding member of the Grateful Dead, passed away at the age of 84, surrounded by family.
  • Musical Journey: Lesh was a classically trained violinist and jazz trumpeter before joining the Grateful Dead, where he played bass and contributed to the band’s unique sound.
  • Contributions: He co-wrote several iconic songs, including “St. Stephen,” “Dark Star,” “Cumberland Blues,” “Truckin’,” and “Box of Rain.”
  • Legacy: Lesh’s innovative bass playing and harmonies were integral to the Grateful Dead’s music, and he remained with the band from 1965 until Jerry Garcia’s death in 1995.

“I was awakened to the power of music early in life through the magic of radio broadcasts and by listening to my father play, from memory, his favorite tunes on the piano. Music saved me by giving me a real sense of accomplishment.” Lesh wrote in his 2005 autobiography.