For fans of improvisational music, the name Phil Lesh conjures images of boundless musical exploration, deep grooves, and a spirit of community that transcended the stage. As the iconic bassist and founding member of the Grateful Dead, Lesh’s unique approach to music has left an indelible mark. Here at Explore New Jersey, we understand the enduring power of live performance, and that’s precisely what you’ll find every night on Live Jam – where every song played is the live version.
Tonight, immerse yourself in this incredible legacy with The Phil & Friends Radio Show, a captivating journey into the musical universe crafted by Phil Lesh and his rotating cast of supremely talented collaborators. Through a carefully curated selection of live recordings, the show illuminates Lesh’s distinctive basslines and his profound contributions to the rich tapestry of improvisational rock.
A Legacy Celebrated: Looking Back and Forward
The year 2025 holds profound significance for the Grateful Dead community, marked by both a somber reflection and vibrant celebrations of their enduring influence:
- MusiCares Persons of the Year: The Grateful Dead (2025) Just two days before Phil Lesh’s passing, the Grateful Dead were announced as the 2025 MusiCares Persons of the Year. This prestigious honor recognizes the band’s monumental contributions not only to music but also to philanthropy and community building. This well-deserved accolade will be celebrated at a gala in January 2025, serving as a powerful testament to the band’s impact and the profound connections they forged with their audience and beyond. It highlights their role not just as musicians, but as pioneers of a cultural movement rooted in giving back.
- Unbroken Chain: A Celebration of the Life and Music of Phil Lesh In a heartfelt tribute to his father’s incredible life and musical journey, Grahame Lesh, Phil’s son, will host a special event titled “Unbroken Chain” at the venerable Capitol Theatre in March 2025. This gathering, featuring Grahame Lesh and a constellation of talented friends and longtime collaborators of Phil, promises to be an intimate and powerful celebration. It will undoubtedly be a poignant evening of music and memories, reflecting on the profound legacy Phil left behind and the countless lives he touched through his art.
- The Heart Of Town: Grateful Dead 60th Anniversary Celebrations The Grateful Dead’s influence continues to reverberate, and 2025 marks a monumental occasion: their 60th anniversary. To commemorate this milestone, San Francisco will host “The Heart Of Town,” a three-night concert series in July/August 2025 at Pier 48. This highly anticipated event, featuring Grahame Lesh and an incredible lineup of guest musicians from across the jam band spectrum, will honor the band’s deep roots in the city where it all began. Expect electrifying performances that capture the improvisational spirit and camaraderie that defined the Grateful Dead for six decades. It’s a chance for fans new and old to come together and celebrate the timeless music that continues to inspire.
These upcoming events underscore the enduring power of the Grateful Dead’s music and the deep love and respect held for Phil Lesh. Their legacy is not just about the notes played, but the community built and the spirit of exploration that continues to thrive.
Tune into Live Jam tonight for The Phil & Friends Radio Show, and let the live versions of these iconic tunes take you on a journey.
