On Saturday, January 10, the world lost a legend. Bob Weir, co-founder of the iconic rock group, the "Grateful Dead," passed away. Shortly after his passing was announced, tributes began pouring in from fans, and industry members alike.
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However, on Saturday evening, a different type of tribute emerged. The Empire State Building, the Las Vegas Sphere, and the Kia Forum all shone tie-dye-colored lights, illuminating the buildings.
The veteran musician played 48 shows across two separate residencies at the Sphere, with his Weir's Dead & Company group. 30 of those shows came in 2024, with a further 18 last spring.
If you're wondering why the buildings were lit up in tie-die, it's because the Grateful Dead and their fanbase popularized the t-shirts during their prime. They became synonymous with the band, and often featured the iconic logo that usually included a skeleton with roses.
The decision by each building was a touching tribute to a true pioneer of the music industry. To this day, the "Grateful Dead" are a popular band, raking in over 2.1 million monthly streams on Spotify. Their biggest song on the platform is "Friend Of The Devil," which has been streamed more than 135 million times, despite its release being 56 years ago, in 1970.
Bob Weir's Passing Comes Shortly After Losing Bandmates Donna Jean Godchaux And Phil Lesh
It's been a tough six months for "Grateful Dead" fans. Weir's loss will undoubtedly come as a hammer blow. However, it will be made all the worse Donna Jean Godchaux.
Godchaux passed away at the age of 78, following a battle with cancer.
After Godchaux's passing was made public, the "Grateful Dead" released a statement via Instagram.
"It is with heavy hearts that we mourn the loss of Donna Jean Godchaux," The Nov. 3 post read. "Her unmistakable voice and radiant spirit touched the lives of countless fans and immeasurably enriched the Grateful Dead family."
Phil Lesh also passed away in October 2024. He had faced a number of health issues during his final years, including fights against prostate and bladder cancer.
Despite their losses, the "Grateful Dead's" music will continue to stand the test of time. And, maybe, sales of tie-die t-shirts will begin to spike once more.
