John Mayer Delivers Emotional ‘Ripple’ Tribute at Bob Weir’s Public Memorial

At a poignant public memorial held on Saturday, John Mayer delivered an emotional tribute to the late Bob Weir, known as a lead guitarist for the Grateful Dead. The event took place at Civic Center Plaza in San Francisco, attracting a large gathering of devoted fans known as Dead Heads.

John Mayer Honors Bob Weir

Mayer, who shared a unique connection with Weir—both were born on October 16, albeit 30 years apart—opened his tribute with thoughtful reflections. He described how Weir, born in 1947, had established himself as a countercultural icon long before Mayer was even born in 1977.

During his eulogy, Mayer noted, “In my early years, I was shaped by a world of structural thinking. Bob, however, embraced spirit and curiosity.” This contrast highlighted the different backgrounds that contributed to their musical partnership.

A Decade-Long Friendship

The friendship that blossomed between Mayer and Weir during their time in Dead & Company was central to Mayer’s tribute. “We built mutual trust over a decade,” he stated. Mayer acknowledged Weir’s faith in him, recalling how the iconic guitarist staked his reputation on Mayer joining the band.

• Weir imparted lessons on trusting the moment.
• Mayer aimed to provide Weir with a sense of structure.
• They created a musical community that fostered profound connections.

Sharing the Stage

Mayer’s emotions ran high as he expressed gratitude for Weir’s influence. “He shared his songbook with me and taught me the essence of performance,” Mayer lamented. The atmosphere was charged with sentiment, as celebrants paid tribute to the late musician.

He concluded his heartfelt eulogy with lines from Leon Russell’s “A Song for You,” suggesting that Weir’s spirit would endure in melody: “If my words don’t come together, listen to the melody because my love is in there hiding.”

Performing ‘Ripple’

The memorial culminated in a stirring performance of “Ripple,” a classic from the American Beauty album. Mayer was joined on stage by Weir’s family, friends, and fellow bandmates, including Mickey Hart and Oteil Burbridge. This rarely performed song offered a fitting farewell, encapsulating the tribute’s themes of love and remembrance.

Through this emotional gathering, Mayer and the community celebrated the enduring legacy of Bob Weir, a musician who touched countless lives.