Bob Weir (of Grateful Dead) has passed away

Bobby Weir, a founding member of the iconic band the Grateful Dead, has passed away at the age of 78, as per blabbermouth. Since the band’s inception in 1965, he emerged as one of the most distinctive rhythm guitarists in rock music, significantly influencing both the band’s sound and the broader American musical culture. Over a span of more than sixty years, Weir continued to inspire successive generations of artists and audiences, with his contributions establishing him as a pivotal figure in rock history. On behalf of the Chaoszine team, our deepest condolences to Weir’s family, friends and loved ones.

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Bobby Weir. He transitioned peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, after courageously beating cancer as only Bobby could. Unfortunately, he succumbed to underlying lung issues.

Bobby will forever be a guiding force whose unique artistry reshaped American music. His work did more than fill rooms with music; it was warm sunlight that filled the soul, building a community, a language, and a feeling of family that generations of fans carry with them. Every chord he played, every word he sang was an integral part of the stories he wove. There was an invitation: to feel, to question, to wander, and to belong. – Weir’s family

Weir’s accomplishments have been formally recognized at the highest levels of artistic achievement. In 2024, he and the Grateful Dead were honored with the Kennedy Center Honors, as part of the 47th class. In 2025, the band was designated as MusiCares Person Of The Year, setting a record for fundraising to support MusiCares’ initiatives for health and human services for music professionals. He has also been awarded a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and received both the Les Paul Spirit Award and the Americana Music Association’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Grateful Dead remains one of the most commercially successful touring acts in American history. They hold the record for the highest number of Billboard Top 40 albums by any artist, and by 1995, had attracted more concert attendees than any other act in the history of the music industry. In 2020, they celebrated their 66th Top 40 album, a record unmatched in Billboard’s history.