Billy Strings is mourning the loss of one of his greatest inspirations. Following news that Bob Weir died Saturday at age 78, the Grammy-winning bluegrass musician shared a deeply personal tribute honoring the legendary Grateful Dead co-founder’s life, spirit and enduring influence.
“We are all completely devastated,” Billy Strings wrote on social media. “But I also can’t help but feel like he is at total peace and more magical now than he ever was.”
Strings described Weir as a rare soul who seemed attuned to something beyond the ordinary. “I’ve never knew a person so in tune with the cosmos,” he wrote, calling Weir “mystical and smart and mysterious, alluring and radiant.”
A Bond Forged on Stage and Off
Over the past several years, Strings and Weir developed a close musical and personal relationship. The two shared the stage on multiple occasions, most recently at the Dead 60 anniversary shows in San Francisco in August 2025. At that event, Strings opened the night before joining Dead & Company for a performance of “Wharf Rat,” marking one of Weir’s final live appearances. Strings recalled those moments as sacred. “I’ll always cherish the memories I have of Bob,” he wrote, describing late-night conversations, shared listening sessions and time spent soaking in music together. One particularly meaningful memory came from Strings’ own wedding, where Weir unexpectedly burst into song.
“In an instant he turned the place into a joyous musical celebration,” Strings said. “It was the greatest gift anyone could have given us.”
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‘There’s Work to Be Done’
Despite the grief, Strings said Weir’s philosophy continues to guide him. After processing the news with his band, he said they made the decision to return to the studio — a choice inspired directly by Weir’s outlook on life and art.
“As he said, ‘There’s work to be done,’” Strings wrote, explaining that continuing to make music felt like the most honest way to honor Weir’s legacy.
Strings’ tribute echoed the sentiments of many musicians who credited Weir with generosity, curiosity and a willingness to share his knowledge. “He always had boundless time and knowledge to share with everyone,” Strings said, calling Weir “truly one of the kindest people I’ve ever known.”
A Lasting Legacy
Since the news of Weir’s death broke, tributes have poured in from across the music world, including fellow jam-band icons, producers and cultural figures who recognized his role in shaping American music. As a founding member of Grateful Dead, Weir helped redefine live performance, improvisation and the relationship between artists and audiences.
Strings closed his message with words that captured both grief and gratitude. “Heaven’s choir just gained a beautiful new voice,” he wrote. “There is joy in knowing he is with some of his old friends again — singing and laughing and playing beautiful songs.” For Strings and countless others, Bob Weir’s music and spirit will continue to echo far beyond this life.
