JV has asked that the following text is reproduced as a tribute to R.S.Hornsby, who tragically passed on January 16.

R.S. was unmistakably a Hornsby on sight, but to hear him play you were left in no doubt. A world-renowned band, with decades of experience behind each member, changed with the addition of a prodigious talent of 22 years old. R.S. immediately brought his own sound and added greatly to songs far older than he was, from the Dead catalog to Bruce's established range. Spoken of as the "next generation of Deadhead" by those who followed the Dead everywhere, R.S. brought a significant presence with his playing and his character. It was common to hear, "Is R.S. playing tonight?"

Behind the stage, R.S. was an affable and gracious young man, whose humility belied his gifts. There always seemed to be as big a commotion around him as his uncle, yet he would always seek you out with a warm greeting, a good-natured rib and a huge grin. He was as much a part of the fun offstage as on it - and he was hugely influential in both domains.

I know that I speak for you all when I say that he will be so sadly missed. Many who read this were his friend, or appreciated his music. My prayers are for his family tonight.