While I am a proud Deadhead, this blog will not be a shrine to their music. But this  first  entry is all about why  Dead and Company might be the best band performing live this year. This band brings founding members Bob Weir, Bill Kreutzman and Mickey Hart together with John Mayer, Oteil Burbage (Allman Bros. bassist) and Jeff Chimenti (who’s played  keyboards with Weir the last 10 years).

The founding members had so much fun performing their Fare Thee Well shows in California and Chicago last year, that they didn’t want to quit. Before those shows, Weir appeared on a late night TV show where Mayer was filling in as the host. They played two tunes together and the die was cast.  John Mayer has embraced his role in this band, bringing  a soulful voice and amazing lead guitar to their shows! The band went out on the road for a month and some last fall and are currently finishing up a two month tour with West Coast gigs to follow.

Mayer has brought a fresh approach to the Dead catalog and is bringing in a whole new generation of fans to the fun! His take on the Dead’s music has fans embracing the band more than I’ve seen in years. The reviews have been very positive and they’ve played to huge crowds in NYC @ Citifield and in Boston @  Fenway Park. I was fortunate to be at the first show of the tour in Charlotte on June 10. Mayer and Weir had 20,000 people dancing in the aisles the entire show. Weir is the band leader and Mayer has made himself at home doing his best to honor the genius of Jerry Garcia without copying his style. You can go to Youtube and catch complete shows and single songs. See for yourself if you missed them this summer.

There have been times in the past where an established artist joins a legendary band. Joe Walsh joining the Eagles come to mind. He was a good fit and added some excitement to their shows. But I would have to go back to Neil Young joining Crosby,Stills and Nash in the early 70’s to find an artist who has made such an impact to a band.There is talk that Weir and Mayer may write some new songs which would be great news!

I would love to hear from anyone who got to see the band this year as well as those who got to hear any of the shows on the radio or TV. Your feedback is welcome!

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