Phil Lesh, a legendary figure in the music world, has had a profound impact on Mike Gordon, the talented bassist of Phish. Gordon’s admiration for Lesh dates back to his high school days, where he discovered the Grateful Dead and was immediately drawn to Lesh’s unique style. Although their first encounter was brief in 1993, it wasn’t until 1999 that a lasting friendship blossomed, lasting until Lesh’s passing in October. In a heartfelt tribute featured in our upcoming December print issue, Gordon reflects on the lessons learned from Lesh, their memorable collaborations on stage, and the poignant performance of “Box of Rain” by Phish following Lesh’s death.
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Phil Lesh’s approach to music, particularly his bass playing, stood out as truly unique within the Grateful Dead. Bob Dylan’s praise of Lesh’s artistry in “Truckin'” resonates with Gordon, who recognizes Lesh’s departure from traditional bass expectations. Lesh’s avoidance of typical patterns and allegiances to notes set him apart as a trailblazer in the music industry.
Gordon’s admiration for Lesh extended beyond mere appreciation, as he once expressed in an email the profound impact the Grateful Dead had on him. Describing the band’s integration of various art forms to a new level, Gordon credited Lesh’s playing as the pinnacle of the Dead’s uniqueness and a representation of Western civilization’s apex.
Their friendship truly blossomed during the Warfield shows in 1999, where Gordon had the opportunity to witness Lesh’s musical prowess up close. A memorable lunch meeting between the two musicians revealed Lesh’s lingering emotions about Jerry Garcia’s passing and his perspective on addiction. Despite the somber undertones, the lunch remains a cherished memory for Gordon.
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Phil Lesh’s inclusive nature extended to Gordon, inviting him to partake in special musical events over the years. From playing bass on “Box of Rain” for Lesh’s 60th birthday to collaborating at the Bass Summit, Gordon cherished these opportunities to share the stage with a musical icon. The dynamic interplay between their instruments and tones showcased a harmonious blend of styles.
The news of Lesh’s passing prompted Phish to open their concert with a poignant rendition of “Box of Rain,” paying tribute to the musical legacy left behind. Despite the challenges of learning the song on short notice, the band’s emotional performance resonated with the audience, evoking tears from fans in the front row.
Gordon’s reflections on Lesh’s spiritual connection to music and belief in divine inspiration underscored the profound impact Lesh had on his peers and fans alike. Lesh’s dedication to preserving the Grateful Dead’s repertoire for future generations exemplified his commitment to the music’s enduring legacy.
As Gordon reminisced about their final meeting at a Phil Lesh & Friends show, where he had the honor of celebrating Lesh’s 84th birthday, he recognized the unique musical chemistry they shared. The evening’s performance showcased the complementary nature of their bass playing styles, leaving Lesh eager for future collaborations.
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In a candid conversation following the release of the documentary “Long Strange Trip,” Lesh emphasized the enduring power of music and its ability to transcend time. Gordon echoed Lesh’s sentiment, highlighting the beauty and power of the Grateful Dead’s music in captivating listeners and evoking profound emotional responses.
Their shared belief in the transformative nature of music and its ability to connect with audiences on a spiritual level resonated deeply with both musicians. As Gordon reflected on the everlasting impact of Lesh’s musical legacy, he recognized the timeless quality of their collaborative performances and the magic that unfolds when music transcends words.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the significance of Phil Lesh in Mike Gordon’s musical journey?
A: Phil Lesh’s innovative approach to bass playing and musical expression deeply influenced Mike Gordon, shaping his own musical style and creativity.
Q: How did Phil Lesh’s passing impact the music community?
A: Phil Lesh’s untimely death left a void in the music world, with musicians and fans alike mourning the loss of a true musical legend.
Q: What was the significance of the collaboration between Phil Lesh and Mike Gordon on stage?
A: The collaboration between Phil Lesh and Mike Gordon showcased the seamless blend of their musical talents and the profound connection they shared through their performances.
Credit: www.rollingstone.com
