Tie-dye and dancing bears: Grammy weekend begins with Grateful Dead honored as Persons of the Year

LOS ANGELES -- The Grateful Dead kicked off Grammy weekend in style, celebrated as MusiCares Persons of the Year for their musical legacy and philanthropic contributions. The Los Angeles Convention Center buzzed with energy from colorful dancing bears, a blend of tie-dye clothing with formal wear, and tributes from fans and fellow musicians alike.

Hosted by devoted Deadhead Andy Cohen, the 2 1/2-hour event featured anecdotes about the band's impact and history, including a personal story from Cohen about his first Dead concert. Despite having only two Grammys for lifetime achievement and a best music film, the band's influence on genres like rock, blues, and jazz is undeniable. Guitarist Bob Weir emphasized that their focus was on spreading joy through music rather than seeking accolades.

Throughout the night, drummer Mickey Hart praised the Deadhead community for their unwavering support over the years, acknowledging their role in sustaining the band’s legacy. Special moments included tributes from the children of deceased band members, capturing the spirit of those who had contributed to the band's history.

The performances featured various artists, with Grahame Lesh performing alongside The War on Drugs and Norah Jones delivering a heartfelt rendition of "Ripple." Other musicians like Wynonna Judd and Dwight Yoakam energized the audience, highlighting the night’s festive atmosphere. Weir’s family was seen enjoying themselves, embodying the community spirit of the event.

In its 35th year, the dinner raised an impressive $9.3 million, with a commitment to support musicians in need, particularly those affected by recent wildfires in Los Angeles. As Weir poignantly noted, the Southern California community is dedicated to rebuilding, and with teamwork, they will emerge stronger. For more coverage of the Grammy Awards, visit: https://apnews.com/hub/grammy-awards.