UPDATE: Thousands gathered on Saturday, July 15, 2023, in the San Francisco Bay Area to honor the late Grateful Dead guitarist and vocalist Bob Weir, who passed away on January 10 at the age of 78. The memorial event, dubbed “Homecoming,” was filled with fans, friends, and family celebrating Weir’s profound musical legacy under a bright blue sky.
The atmosphere was electric as attendees clapped, played tambourines, and chanted “you know my love will not fade away.” This gathering not only honored Weir’s contributions to music but also highlighted his role in building a community through his art. “It’s about love… You could see people from all walks of life – a cowboy, a hippy and whatever – all getting along,” expressed Eric Hoffner, 66, a dedicated fan since 1976. “There’s this sense of peace and tranquility, and we need more of that.”
Weir co-founded the Grateful Dead in 1965 in Palo Alto, California, creating one of the most devoted fanbases in rock history, the Deadheads. Attendees traveled from across the country, including places like Southern California and Eugene, Oregon, to pay their respects. Magnolia Grieco, 37, drove over six hours from Santa Monica, stating, “If this music has been a part of your life, I can’t imagine how you couldn’t be here.”
The memorial showcased heartfelt tributes from musicians and dignitaries alike. Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi called Weir “a force of nature” and emphasized his lasting impact on the Bay Area and the world. “The music will never stop, the love will not fade, and the light you brought into this world will continue to guide us,” she said, visibly emotional.
In a touching moment, John Mayer, who played alongside Weir in Dead and Company, described him as an invaluable mentor. “He gave me a musical community, he gave me this community,” Mayer said, fighting back tears. Fellow bandmate Mickey Hart celebrated Weir’s unique artistry, stating, “He was singular… not a copy of anyone before.”
The event featured a blend of in-person and virtual tributes, including messages from Joan Baez and performances from Gyuto monks. As the service progressed, Weir’s family, including his wife Natscha Münter and daughters Chloe and Monet, shared reflections on his life as an artist and an activist. Monet emphasized her father’s commitment to unity, urging, “Music can bring us together in these divided times – keep listening to the music.”
As the memorial concluded, attendees united to serenade the late musician with “Ripple,” filling the air with emotion and nostalgia. Bubbles floated above the crowd as tears were shed, embodying the spirit of Weir’s music: “Would you hear my voice come through the music? Would you hold it near, as it were your own?”
The outpouring of love and remembrance at this monumental gathering serves as a testament to Bob Weir’s enduring influence and the community he fostered through his music. As fans continue to celebrate his legacy, the message remains clear: the music and love will live on.
