Grateful Dead founder Phil Lesh, 84, dies as family share bassist's final moments

Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh has died at the age of 84, his family has confirmed. The musician was a founding member of the legendary rock band and had a huge influence on the music industry

Legendary Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh has died, leaving a profound impact on rock and roll after his decades-spanning career.

His passing was confirmed by loved ones who were with the iconic musician during his last moments, enveloping him in affection.

A statement released through Phil's official Instagram account on Friday announced: "Phil Lesh, bassist and founding member of The Grateful Dead passed peacefully this morning. He was surrounded by his family and full of love. Phil brought immense joy to everyone around him and leaves behind a legacy of music and love."

The message also included a request for privacy, stating: "We request that you respect the Lesh family's privacy at this time." Lesh, who helped shape the sound of a generation with the Grateful Dead, was 84 years old and is mourned by his wife Jill amongst others.

Tributes have been pouring in for the late musician, with one fan writing on Twitter (X): "Crushed by the news that Phil Lesh has passed. One of the all-time greatest bass players and just a true original in every possible way. Smuggled so much weirdness and originality into the heart of American culture. But his tone is immortal. Nothing hits like a Phil bomb. RIP."

Another penned: "RIP Phil Lesh, the cerebral, avant-garde, post-Beat genius who took the Dead's sound far beyond psych-blues and folk into weird empyrean realms of free jazz & classical. He could play the bass like a heartbeat or a tidal wave, searching for new but timeless sounds eternally."

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