Bob Weir, the esteemed guitarist and co-founder of the legendary band The Grateful Dead, has passed away at the age of 78, leaving a profound void in the music and entertainment worlds. His death, confirmed on Saturday, January 10th, via official social media channels, stated that he “transitioned peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.” Weir had bravely overcome cancer in the past but ultimately succumbed to underlying lung issues.

Following the confirmation of his passing, an outpouring of heartfelt tributes from musicians, artists, and public figures began to surface, reflecting the deep impact Weir had on countless lives. Bravo host Andy Cohen took to Instagram on January 10th, eulogizing Weir as “That Guy,” praising his “impossibly beautiful and wildly fiery, intense and passionate” presence. Cohen fondly recalled his first Grateful Dead concert at Alpine Valley, Wisconsin, in 1986, highlighting Weir’s fierce voice which he described as “rays of sunshine.” He also cherished memories of Weir’s appearances on Watch What Happens Live, particularly his graceful articulation of Jerry Garcia’s death as “checkin’ out.”

Don Felder, the former guitarist for The Eagles, shared his awe upon witnessing Weir perform with The Grateful Dead at Woodstock. Felder expressed being “blown away by that whole band, and the musicianship,” and felt “so blessed” to have Weir lend his vocals to his solo track “Rock You,” concluding his tribute with a poignant, “Until we meet again, amigo.”

Producer and bassist Don Was, who shared the stage with Weir in Wolf Bros for seven years, described their collaboration as “one of the most meaningful and rewarding experiences of my life.” Heart guitarist Nancy Wilson lamented that the world would be a “sadder place” without Weir, celebrating how he “spread a lifetime of magic around” and asserting that “His good vibrations will never end.”

Primus frontman Les Claypool remembered Weir as “one of the nicest humans I’ve ever met in the music world,” honoring him as “a legend on many levels.” Michael Franti offered a lengthy and moving statement, recounting Weir’s remarkable openness and curiosity. He shared a powerful memory of performing alongside Weir at a peace concert in the aftermath of the September 11th events, noting how “A true giant in music made time to stand in a park with a few hundred people and help us send a musical message of peace.”

Further tributes echoed the widespread admiration for Weir. Sean Ono Lennon expressed, “It was a great pleasure and a privilege to know you, brother,” while Lee Ranaldo shared evocative lyrics from The Grateful Dead’s “Sugar Magnolia,” concluding his message simply with, “Thank you, Bob.”