Let There Be Songs to Fill the Air: MusiCares Honors the Grateful Dead

The MusiCares Persons of the Year gala, typically a refined and formal event, took on a distinctly unconventional spirit as it paid homage to the Grateful Dead. The occasion, which preceded the Grammy Awards, showcased a vibrant and dynamic celebration of the band’s six-decade legacy. The night also served as a charitable effort, echoing the sentiment of the Dead’s classic lyric, “We will get by, we will survive,” in support of those affected by the recent devastating wildfires in Southern California.

With an eclectic lineup of 17 artists, the event masterfully honored the Grateful Dead’s extensive songbook while fostering an unparalleled synergy between the honorees and performers. Acclaimed producer Don Was served as the evening’s musical director, guiding a house band that featured Rick Mitarotonda of Goose and Grahame Lesh, son of the late Phil Lesh.

A Night of Memorable Performances

The tribute concert commenced with a collaborative rendition of “Samson and Delilah” by The War and Treaty, featuring The Police’s Stewart Copeland and Mick Fleetwood. The gospel-tinged performance set a high bar for the evening, paving the way for My Morning Jacket and Maggie Rose to launch into an electrifying take on “One More Saturday Night.” Rose, embracing the Dead’s iconic floral aesthetic, paid visual homage to the band’s mythology with a striking red floral dress.

Zac Brown and Marcus King followed suit with a powerful interpretation of “Bertha,” a fan-favorite that ignited the crowd. Wynonna Judd then took the stage for a heartfelt rendition of “Ramble on Rose,” reflecting on her longstanding connection with Weir and the Grateful Dead’s influence on her career.

Norah Jones brought a touch of elegance to the proceedings with a jazz-infused performance of “Ripple,” her piano-driven arrangement offering a fresh perspective on the beloved classic. Béla Fleck and Noah Kahan combined guitar and banjo for a folk-infused take on “Friend of the Devil,” embracing the Dead’s signature storytelling and intricate musical interplay.

As the evening progressed, Vampire Weekend delivered an electrifying version of “Scarlet Begonias,” with drummer Chris Tomson paying tribute to the late Phil Lesh by donning a Miller Beer-inspired Lesh shirt. Dwight Yoakam infused “Truckin’” with his signature country twang, while Maren Morris channeled the spirit of Jerry Garcia in a soulful rendition of “They Love Each Other.”

A standout moment arrived when Sierra Ferrell and Lukas Nelson, both adorned with floral elements reminiscent of the Dead’s iconic “Bertha” imagery, performed a stirring rendition of “It Must Have Been the Roses.” Later, bluegrass virtuoso Billy Strings captivated the audience with “Wharf Rat,” marking the song’s return to his live repertoire after a nearly two-year hiatus.

Sammy Hagar brought infectious energy to “Loose Lucy,” while former Dead collaborator Bruce Hornsby delivered a mesmerizing take on “Standing on the Moon.” The War on Drugs followed with “Box of Rain,” a poignant nod to the late Phil Lesh. The climax of the concert arrived when John Mayer took center stage for a stripped-down yet powerful performance of “Terrapin Station,” highlighting Robert Hunter’s poetic storytelling.

A Tribute to Legacy and Community

Beyond the music, the evening was interspersed with video tributes honoring late band members Jerry Garcia and Phil Lesh, with their children—Trixie Garcia and Grahame Lesh—representing their fathers. The event underscored the Grateful Dead’s enduring legacy and unwavering commitment to community.

During his acceptance speech, Bobby Weir reflected on his journey with the band, recalling his struggles with dyslexia and the importance of teamwork in both music and life. He emphasized the necessity of collective effort in rebuilding communities affected by the recent wildfires, drawing parallels between the band’s ethos and MusiCares’ mission of supporting musicians in need.

Weir expressed profound gratitude to his bandmates, songwriting partners, and the dedicated crew members who played an integral role in the Grateful Dead’s success. He also acknowledged his family, managers, and record executives who have continued to champion the band’s music.

In a poignant closing, Weir echoed the philosophy of his late bandmate Jerry Garcia: “You get some, you give some back.” This sentiment encapsulated the spirit of the evening—one of celebration, generosity, and an enduring commitment to the music and the people who make it possible.

As the night drew to a close, Weir and Hart took the stage with their Dead & Company bandmates Oteil Burbridge, Jay Lane, and Jeff Chimenti for triumphant renditions of “Sugar Magnolia” and “Touch of Grey.” The grand finale saw nearly all performers joining in, closing the night in true Grateful Dead fashion—unifying music, camaraderie, and a shared appreciation for a band that continues to inspire generations.

The MusiCares tribute to the Grateful Dead was more than just a concert; it was a testament to the band’s lasting impact on music and culture. As the final notes rang out, one thing was clear: the spirit of the Dead lives on, filling the air with songs and stories that will never fade.

 

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