Watch Phil & Grahame Lesh Perform Grateful Dead Classics For eTown ‘Solar Sessions’

The father and son also also spoke with eTown co-founder Nick Forster including questions sent in by Phish bassist Mike Gordon.

By Nate Todd Jun 19, 2023 • 10:38 am PDT

Phil Lesh and Grahame Lesh recently performed for eTown’s Solar Sessions video series. The Boulder, Colorado-based multimedia outfit fittingly shared the set from the Grateful Dead bassist and his son on Father’s Day.

Phil and Grahame performed from eTown’s solar-powered recording studio and also spoke with eTown co-founder and host Nick Forster. Phil and Grahame kicked things off muscially with the Grateful Dead classic “Friend of the Devil.” Phil handled lead vocals while Grahame joined him on the chorus. Phil’s chat with Forster followed and began with the legendary bassist talking about his early classical musical influences including an experience listening to the New York philharmonic on the radio with his grandmother when he was four-years-old.

Lesh went on to talk about how his classical training influenced Grateful Dead music and more. Nick then mentioned that Phish bassist Mike Gordon sent him a list of questions to ask, much to Phil’s delight, and had a great question about “the music playing itself.” Phil asked Nick to tell Mike thank you for the question and Forster related a story about Mike’s near involvement in the interview that gets a rise out of Lesh.

Up next musically, Grahame and Phil offered “Mississippi Half-Step Uptown Toodeloo.” Phil handled lead vocals and drove the song as Grahame took acoustic riffs and rides. The father and son also teamed up to sing harmonies on the “Rio Grand-eo” portion of the song.

Forster’s conversation with the younger Lesh followed. Grahame talked about his work with the Luther Dickinson-led project, Capitol Sun Rays, which also featured Amy Helm. Grahame then related his experience growing up around the Grateful Dead. He also told a cool story about the first time playing with his dad during a high school talent show where they “needed a bass player.” Additionally, Grahame spoke playing music at Terrapin Crossroads, his musical influences and more.

The video ends with a performance of the Grateful Dead favorite, “Jack Straw.” Watch Grahame and Phil Lesh on eTown’s Solar Sessions below: