The legendary jam band, The Grateful Dead, was honored as MusiCares Persons of the Year, celebrating their musical legacy and philanthropic efforts. The event, held at the Los Angeles Convention Center, featured performances by a star-studded lineup, including John Mayer, My Morning Jacket, Norah Jones, Bruce Hornsby, and more.
Colorful dancing bears, tie-dye clothing mingling with black tie, and the legendary Grateful Dead themselves – it was a night of celebration as the iconic jam band kicked off Grammy weekend. Honored as MusiCares Persons of the Year on Friday night, two days before the Grammy Awards , the band was recognized for their enduring musical legacy and unwavering philanthropic efforts.
The Los Angeles Convention Center transformed into a psychedelic haven, with the Dead's iconic skull logo projected onto ever-changing graphics, and their well-known dancing bears posing for photos with awestruck attendees.Devoted Deadhead and talk show host Andy Cohen, who recounted his teenage journey from St. Louis to Wisconsin to see his first Dead concert, hosted the 2 1/2-hour event. 'I venture to say they are the great American band,' Cohen declared. 'What a wonder they are.' While the Dead's Grammy collection is limited to two lifetime achievement awards (2007) and a best music film award (2018), their impact on music is undeniable. They carved a unique niche, blending rock, blues, jazz, folk, and psychedelia into extended improvisations that continue to inspire generations of musicians.Guitarist Bob Weir, at 77, acknowledged the band's longevity with a chuckle, stating, 'Longevity was never a major concern of ours. Spreading joy through music was all we ever really had in mind, and we got plenty of that done.' Drummer Mickey Hart, ever the spiritual leader, paid homage to the dedicated Deadheads who have kept the music alive for 60 years. 'The Deadheads have kept the dream alive,' he said, 'and continue to take this music into the next century. Without their support, there would be no Grateful Dead.' The night was a celebration of family, both biological and chosen. Joining Weir and Hart on stage were three of their bandmates' children: Grahame Lesh, Trixie Garcia, and Justin Kreutzmann, each carrying on the spirit of their fathers. Lesh's father, Phil, passed away in October at 84, while Garcia's father, Jerry, died in 1995 at 53. Kreutzmann's father, Bill, sent his love in a video message. Hart, visibly moved, acknowledged Bill's presence: 'I can feel his spirit in the house. He's in the music, he's in the rhythm, the heartbeat of everything we built together.
Grateful Dead Musicares Grammy Awards Rock Music Jam Band Philanthropy
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