Phil Lesh’s cause of death has been revealed!

Phil Lesh, the legendary bassist and co-founder of the iconic rock band The Grateful Dead, has passed away at the age of 84. His family confirmed in a heartfelt statement on the musician’s official Instagram account that he “passed away peacefully this morning,” surrounded by loved ones.

The Grateful Dead, formed in 1965 in California, became a hallmark of the counterculture movement, blending rock, folk, and jazz into a distinctive sound that captured the hearts of many. The band disbanded in 1995 following the death of lead singer Jerry Garcia, but Lesh remained active in the music scene, participating in a US tour in 2003 and the final concert series in 2015 alongside surviving members.

The statement on Instagram celebrated Lesh’s impact: “He brought great happiness to everyone around him and left behind a legacy of music and love. We ask that you respect the privacy of the Lesh family during this time.”

Born in Berkeley, California, in 1940, Lesh’s musical journey began with the fiddle, later transitioning to trumpet before ultimately finding his place on the bass guitar when he joined The Grateful Dead. His improvisational skills were a perfect complement to the band’s eclectic style and the creative genius of lead guitarist Jerry Garcia, as well as bandmates Bob Weir, Bill Kreutzman, and Ron “Pigpen” McKernan.

Lesh was known for his poignant compositions, including “Unbroken Chain,” which reflects the profound connection between the band and its devoted fans, known as “Deadheads.” He also contributed to the emotional ballad “Box of Rain,” penned by his father on his deathbed.

Despite their massive following and cultural significance, The Grateful Dead reached the top 10 on the US charts only once, with the 1987 hit “Touch of Grey.” Lesh’s health struggles included a battle with bladder cancer in 2015 and a prostate cancer surgery nine years prior, which led to a full recovery. He also underwent a liver transplant in 1998, becoming a passionate advocate for organ donation.

Lesh is survived by his wife, Jill, and their two sons. His legacy as a musician and a symbol of love and connection within the music community will continue to resonate with fans around the world.