The Grateful Dead Legacy and Why Setlists Matter
The air crackles with anticipation. The lights dim, the crowd roars, and the familiar first chords ring out, signaling the start of another magical Dead & Company performance. But beyond the collective energy, the swirling lights, and the undeniable feeling of community, one crucial element fuels the excitement: the setlist. For Deadheads both old and new, the setlist isn’t just a list of songs; it’s a roadmap to a unique, improvisational journey that unfolds each and every night. It’s a testament to a legacy of spontaneous creation and enduring musical exploration. Dead & Company, carrying the torch passed down from The Grateful Dead, understands this deep connection to the setlist. This article dives deep into the significance of the Dead & Company setlist, exploring its evolution, common threads, and some truly unforgettable moments.
To truly understand the significance of a Dead & Company performance, one must first appreciate the rich history of their predecessor, The Grateful Dead. Known for their unparalleled live shows and devoted fanbase, the Grateful Dead cultivated a unique approach to their performances, one where no two shows were ever truly the same. A significant part of this stemmed from their approach to crafting setlists. While they certainly had a repertoire of well-loved songs, they actively avoided repeating the same setlist night after night. This “no-repeat policy”, combined with their penchant for improvisation, ensured that each concert was a singular experience for both the band and the audience.
This approach to live performance cultivated a vibrant, engaged community that hung on every note. More than just fans, these Deadheads saw themselves as active participants in a continuous musical conversation. The setlist, therefore, became more than just a list of songs. It was a blueprint for the evening’s sonic adventure, a starting point for boundless improvisation, and a source of endless discussion and analysis among dedicated listeners. The unpredictability of a Grateful Dead setlist was a key element of their appeal. Would they launch into a sprawling rendition of “Dark Star”? Or perhaps treat the crowd to a rare, deep cut from their catalog? The possibilities were seemingly endless, and the anticipation was palpable.
This tradition of honoring the unknown is carried forward by Dead & Company. They understand that the setlist is not just a structure for the music, but it is a vessel for memories, and a promise to the faithful.
Deconstructing Dead & Company’s Setlist Structure
Dead & Company follows a pattern for their shows that Deadheads have come to know well, while still leaving room for the surprise so vital to the experience. A typical Dead & Company show is usually structured into two distinct sets, followed by an encore performance. Each set typically spans around an hour and a half, showcasing a blend of classic Grateful Dead tunes, blues-inspired covers, and original material.
The first set is often designed to warm up the crowd and establish the evening’s sonic landscape. Certain songs, often referred to as “openers,” are frequently employed to kick things off with a burst of energy. Fan favorites like “Bertha,” with its driving rhythm, the funky groove of “Shakedown Street,” or the celebratory vibe of “Feel Like A Stranger” are common choices to start the journey. These openers help establish a strong connection with the audience early on and set the tone for the rest of the night.
Throughout both sets, certain songs act as what fans affectionately call “jam vehicles,” providing a foundation for extended improvisational sections. These songs, such as the iconic “Dark Star,” the complex and mesmerizing “Playing in the Band,” the ethereal “Estimated Prophet,” and the uplifting “Eyes of the World,” serve as launching pads for the band to explore new musical territories. These extended jams allow the musicians to showcase their individual talents, engage in creative interplay, and push the boundaries of the original compositions, frequently resulting in a unique and unforgettable musical experience.
On occasion, Dead & Company will incorporate a short acoustic set within a show, creating a more intimate and reflective atmosphere. These acoustic interludes often feature stripped-down versions of classic songs, showcasing the band’s versatility and their ability to connect with the audience on a more personal level.
A particularly iconic segment of a Dead & Company show is the “Drums/Space” section, a tradition inherited directly from The Grateful Dead. This segment typically involves the drummers, usually Mickey Hart and Bill Kreutzmann in the case of the original band, engaging in a freeform percussive exploration, often incorporating electronic sounds and experimental rhythms. “Space” follows “Drums”, creating a sonic landscape which is often free-form and without traditional structure.
The conclusion of each set also holds a special significance. “Closer” songs are strategically chosen to bring the set to a satisfying close, leaving the audience eager for what’s to come. The encore, of course, is the final gift, a carefully selected song that sends the audience home with a lasting memory of the evening. Heartfelt ballads like “Brokedown Palace” or “Ripple,” or the upbeat anthem “Touch of Grey” are often selected for the encore, providing a sense of closure and reflection on the musical journey they have just experienced.
Memorable Moments in Dead & Company History
The beauty of the Dead & Company experience is in its ephemeral nature; each show is a unique moment in time, unrepeatable and unforgettable. However, certain performances stand out as particularly memorable, showcasing the band’s evolution, their willingness to take risks, and their ability to connect with the audience in profound ways.
Consider a performance from their early days. The band, still finding its footing and chemistry, delivered a spirited rendition of classic Grateful Dead tunes. One might recall a 2015 concert, where the band tore through a high-energy version of “Truckin'” and then launched into a version of “Help On The Way > Slipknot > Franklin’s Tower,” showcasing their early mastery of the band’s complex interplay. These early shows demonstrated a clear respect for the legacy of The Grateful Dead while simultaneously hinting at the unique direction the band would eventually take.
Later on, in their touring cycle, Dead & Company demonstrated a greater willingness to push the boundaries of their music, exploring new sonic territories and incorporating influences from diverse genres. For example, at a show in 2018, the band delivered a sprawling rendition of “Dark Star” that stretched well beyond twenty minutes. It weaved together elements of jazz, blues, and psychedelia, showcasing the band’s improvisational prowess and their ability to create something truly special in the moment. Another night in 2019, they introduced a cover of “Dear Mr. Fantasy” by Traffic, adding their own unique twist to the song and surprising the audience with an unexpected musical treat.
These moments, and countless others, are what make Dead & Company shows so special. They are a testament to the power of live music, the beauty of improvisation, and the enduring legacy of The Grateful Dead.
Band Contributions and Covering the Classics
The sound of Dead & Company is influenced by the styles and tastes of each individual member. John Mayer’s guitar playing is a highlight. He lends a blues and rock edge to the sound while showing reverence to the music of Jerry Garcia. Oteil Burbridge’s funky and rhythmic basslines add a unique layer to the music.
Dead & Company sometimes plays covers, revealing the music that influences them. These songs are not chosen randomly; they reflect the band’s musical tastes and the emotions they wish to evoke.
Finding Setlists
Finding Dead & Company setlists is easy with the right resources. Reputable websites, such as Setlist.fm, document the music played at each show. Fan communities often discuss what songs were played and share experiences of shows online.
The Enduring Legacy of the Setlist
The Dead & Company setlist is more than just a list of songs. It’s a roadmap to a shared experience, a promise of improvisation, and a celebration of music. The Dead & Company’s dedication to the art of the setlist ensures that each and every show remains a unique and unforgettable experience. They are carrying the legacy of improvisation and creating a legacy of their own.
