Founding Grateful Dead member dies at 78

By Isabella Gomez Sarmiento

Published January 11, 2026 at 5:00 PM EST

Bob Weir, who helped build the Grateful Dead from the Haight-Ashbury scene into a cultural institution, has died at 78.

Related Content

Bob Weir, guitarist and founding member of the Grateful Dead, has died at 78

Felix Contreras, Isabella Gomez Sarmiento

For three decades with the Grateful Dead and three more after the group ended following the 1995 death of his bandmate Jerry Garcia, Weir helped build and sustain the band's legacy across generations.
TEED releases his new album 'Always With Me'

Kira Wakeam

Orlando Higginbottom, the electronic music artist who performs as TEED, on the sounds and influences behind his new album, 'Always With Me'.
John Driskell Hopkins is still performing with the Zac Brown Band after his ALS diagnosis

Here & Now Newsroom

John Driskell Hopkins, who was diagnosed with ALS in December 2021 continues to perform with the Zac Brown Band.
Neil Diamond shares his guilty pleasure hits (Hint: 'Sweet Caroline' is on the list)

Terry Gross

The new film Song Sung Blue is about a Neil Diamond tribute band. Before Diamond began recording his own hits, he worked in Tin Pan Alley writing songs for others. Originally broadcast in 2005.
Coco Jones: Tiny Desk Concert

Alanté Serene

As soon as Coco Jones stepped behind the Desk, donning a beautiful silver dress and a bright, warm smile, it was apparent that we were about to witness a star shine.

You make NHPR possible.

NHPR is nonprofit and independent. We rely on readers like you to support the local, national, and international coverage on this website. Your support makes this news available to everyone.

Give today. A monthly donation of $5 makes a real difference.