Bob Weir, guitarist and co-founder of The Grateful Dead, is being remembered by musicians, artists and public figures across the music and entertainment worlds following news of his death. He was 78.
Weir’s death was confirmed Saturday (Jan. 10) by a statement published on his official social media accounts, where it was revealed he “transitioned peacefully, surrounded by loved ones,” after previously beating cancer and later succumbing to underlying lung issues.
Tributes began pouring in on Saturday after Weir’s family confirmed his passing, describing him as having “transitioned peacefully, surrounded by loved ones,” after previously beating cancer and later succumbing to underlying lung issues.
Bravo host Andy Cohen shared an Instagram post on January 10, calling Weir “That Guy” for his “impossibly beautiful and wildly fiery, intense and passionate” presence.
He recalled his first Grateful Dead show in 1986 at Alpine Valley, Wisconsin, praising Weir’s fierce voice as “rays of sunshine,” and fondly remembered Weir’s appearances on Watch What Happens Live, including his graceful phrasing of Jerry Garcia’s death as “checkin’ out.”
Don Felder, former Eagles guitarist, remembered first seeing Weir perform with the Grateful Dead at Woodstock.
“I was blown away by that whole band, and the musicianship,” Felder wrote, adding that he felt “so blessed” to have Weir sing on his solo track “Rock You.” Felder concluded his message with, “Until we meet again, amigo.”
Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash shared a photo of Weir performing onstage with his leg raised, simply captioning it “RIP” alongside a broken-heart emoji.
Primus frontman Les Claypool called Weir “one of the nicest humans I’ve ever met in the music world,” describing him as “a legend on many levels.”
Michael Franti, in a lengthy statement, recalled Weir’s openness and curiosity, sharing memories of performing together at a peace concert following the events of Sept. 11.
“A true giant in music made time to stand in a park with a few hundred people and help us send a musical message of peace,” Franti wrote.
Sean Ono Lennon shared a photo jamming with Weir, writing, “It was a great pleasure and a privilege to know you, brother.”
