Watch Phish honor Phil Lesh with “Box of Rain” cover & read Trey’s tribute

We’re all still reeling from the sad news that Grateful Dead co-founder Phil Lesh passed away at age 84 today, and one of the bands who wouldn’t be here without the Dead, Phish, paid tribute by opening tonight’s (10/25) Albany show with a cover of Phil’s “Box of Rain.” Phish, whose Trey Anastasio has played in multiple Dead offshoot bands over the years, unsurprisingly did a wonderful rendition. Watch below.

Trey also posted a lengthy tribute to Phil:

I was deeply saddened to hear that my friend Phil Lesh passed away this morning. Phil was more than a revolutionary, groundbreaking bass player—he transformed how I thought about music as a teenager. I have countless memories of standing in awe, listening to his winding, eloquent bass lines blending seamlessly with Jerry and Bobby’s guitars, Brent Mydland’s keys, and the thunderous drums of Billy and Mickey. I’m so grateful for those beautiful memories.

When I first played with Phil in 1999, I discovered that beyond being an astounding musician, he was a truly kind and wonderful man. I cherish the memories of playing with him, sharing meals and laughs together, visiting his home, and getting to know him as a friend. The Fare Thee Well shows were particularly special, with so many family members and lifelong friends backstage, sharing those precious moments together.

My heart is with his beautiful family today—Jill, Grahame, Brian, and all those he held dear. Thank you, Phil, for a lifetime of joyous memories. Rest in peace, brother.

Phish’s Mike Gordon has penned a tribute as well:

It’s hard to put into words the depth of our loss, as Phil was a profound influence on all of us. The Grateful Dead were uniquely moving, and I always felt Phil’s contribution was at the pinnacle of that magic. Phil’s tone was both beautiful and unprecedented. Playing his bass through his rig was a revelation, yet no one could recreate that unique sound—it was all in his sonic vision and his fingers.

As bass players, we walk a line between holding down the foundation and finding the freedom to be melodic. No one embodied this balance like Phil; it was astounding. His playing had a mesmerizing power, and his melodic lines floated like birds dancing through endless clouds and rainbows.

Phil’s classical training may have helped him see basslines as intricate counterpoints. Influenced by a wide array of sources, he spun these inspirations into something altogether new – a vibrant, singular art form. His spirituality also shone through in his music; he often spoke of music as coming from God, with musicians as conduits. Phil was undoubtedly one of the greatest conduits ever.

We first met when Trey and Page played alongside him for three nights at The Warfield in 1999. We didn’t know each other, but I asked him if he’d have lunch with me, and the restaurant even printed menus that said “Bass Player’s Luncheon.” That week, and many times since, we had the chance to collaborate and philosophize together. Later in 1999, he joined Phish on stage at Shoreline, even jumping on trampolines, and I had the privilege of playing bass with him on “Box of Rain” for his 60th birthday. These moments were life-changing.

Earlier this year, we met up before a show at the Capitol Theatre, and I asked him if he had any regrets. He told me no, that everything had unfolded as the universe intended. He also mentioned that he sees the Grateful Dead’s music lasting for centuries. I believe Phil’s contribution to that legacy will endure, inspiring generations to come. We’ll remember him, and his influence will live on in all of us.

— Mike

See their full posts and the “Box of Rain” video:

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