Grateful Dead fans have spent a lifetime following the works of Bob Weir, and now, it seems, the Americana Honors & Awards will too. The upcoming awards ceremony has named Weir their Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, marking a 50+ year career performing music drawn from the Americana catalog.
While the Grateful Dead aren’t quite Americana, their music is richly steeped in the roots of the folk tradition. Weir especially has drawn from these influences, taking the lead on songs like “I Know You Rider,” “El Paso,” “New Minglewood Blues” and so many more. Not only that, but his forthcoming solo album Blue Mountain features an acoustic selection of new Weir originals, which he has called “cowboy songs” many times.
We’re quite happy for Mr. Weir to get the recognition that he deserves! The 15th annual ceremony will be held at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN on September 21st. Weir has also added a second Chicago date to his tour, tacking on one additional performance at the end of the run.
[H/T Rolling Stone]