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Grateful Dead

Live Performances by Grateful Dead in 1979

Grateful Dead Full Concert from Madison Square Garden, New York City

Madison Square Garden
New York City, NY, United States

January 7, 1979 | Video Length: 2:54:33
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  • On January 7, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed a memorable concert at Madison Square Garden, showcasing their distinctive blend of rock, blues, and i... Read Full Description >

    On January 7, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed a memorable concert at Madison Square Garden, showcasing their distinctive blend of rock, blues, and improvisational jazz styles. This performance occurred just after the release of their album "From the Mars Hotel," which debuted in 1974 and featured songs that had become staples in their live shows. Notably, during the late 1970s, the band was solidifying its reputation for extensive live improvisation, a hallmark of their concerts, which is evident in the flowing structure of the setlist from this performance. The song "Shakedown Street," featured in the second set, would later become a fan favorite and exemplify their ability to blend complex musical transitions with engaging narratives within a concert format. This period marked a peak in the band’s touring and live performance prowess, as they continued to expand their devoted fanbase while exploring new musical territories.

Live Performance of 'Jack Straw' by the Grateful Dead at Nassau Coliseum

Nassau Coliseum
Uniondale, NY, USA

January 11, 1979 | Video Length: 6:15
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  • On January 11, 1979, during the Grateful Dead's concert at Nassau Coliseum, the band was in a transitional phase, having just released their studio al... Read Full Description >

    On January 11, 1979, during the Grateful Dead's concert at Nassau Coliseum, the band was in a transitional phase, having just released their studio album "From the Mars Hotel" in 1974 and entering the late 1970s with an evolving sound. The live recording of "Jack Straw" from this date captures the band in their prime, showcasing their improvisational prowess and ability to blend rock, folk, and jazz influences. This period saw the Grateful Dead become increasingly popular, particularly with live audiences, as they developed a reputation for their dynamic performances. Notably, "Jack Straw" was co-written by Robert Hunter and Jerry Garcia and became a fan favorite, symbolizing the band’s collaborative spirit and storytelling ability. The energy of this particular performance highlights why the Grateful Dead’s live recordings are cherished, illustrating their commitment to spontaneity and musical exploration.

Grateful Dead Performance of 'Jack Straw' at Nassau Coliseum

Nassau Coliseum
Uniondale, NY, United States

January 11, 1979 | Video Length: 6:26
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  • On January 11, 1979, during the Grateful Dead's performance at Nassau Coliseum, the band was in a significant period of their career marked by a diver... Read Full Description >

    On January 11, 1979, during the Grateful Dead's performance at Nassau Coliseum, the band was in a significant period of their career marked by a diverse setlist and a growing audience. Prior to this show, their studio album "From the Mars Hotel" had been released in 1974, and they had not yet issued the album "Go to Heaven," which would debut a few months later in April 1980. The band was known for their improvisational style and extensive live performances, with "Jack Straw" serving as a staple in their repertoire. This particular show is notable for Jerry Garcia's spirited performance, showcasing his intense guitar work and vocal delivery, which captured the band's ethos of spontaneity and exploration—a hallmark of the Grateful Dead’s live shows. By this time, the Dead had developed a strong following, exemplified by packed venues and dedicated fans, further solidifying their status in the rock scene.

Grateful Dead Full Concert at Shea's Theater - Buffalo, NY

Shea's Theater
Buffalo, NY, United States

January 20, 1979 | Video Length: 2:44:18
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  • On January 20, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at Shea's Theater in Buffalo, NY, showcasing their unique blend of rock, folk, bluegrass, and jazz in... Read Full Description >

    On January 20, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at Shea's Theater in Buffalo, NY, showcasing their unique blend of rock, folk, bluegrass, and jazz influences. At this point in their career, they had recently released the album "From the Mars Hotel" (1974), and their acclaimed "Wake of the Flood" (1973) was a significant part of their catalog, highlighting their commitment to live improvisation and exploration. By 1979, they were well into their prime, having solidified their status as legends in the live music scene. An interesting aspect of this performance, and during this era, is the band’s ongoing experimentation with new soundscapes, as evidenced by the inclusion of tracks like "Estimated Prophet," which showcases their evolving style. This live recording is a testament to the band’s ability to connect with audiences through extended jams and spontaneous musical conversation.

Grateful Dead Full Concert at Shea's Buffalo Theatre featuring Dark Star

Shea's Buffalo Theatre
Buffalo, New York, USA

January 20, 1979 | Video Length: 2:45:47
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  • On January 20, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at Shea's Buffalo Theatre, marking a significant moment in their career as it featured their final re... Read Full Description >

    On January 20, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at Shea's Buffalo Theatre, marking a significant moment in their career as it featured their final rendition of "Dark Star" from the 1970s. Before this concert, the band released *From the Mars Hotel* in 1974 and *Blues for Allah* in 1975, showcasing their exploration of jazz and world music influences during the mid-70s. By the time of the Buffalo show, the band had entered a new phase, with their 1977 studio album *Terrapin Station* introducing a more refined sound that would carry into their live performances. This concert is particularly notable not just for its historical significance in relation to "Dark Star" but also because it highlights the band's resilience and adaptability in their music, solidifying their reputation for live improvisation and unique setlists. The blend of musical styles displayed during this performance captures the essence of what made the Grateful Dead a seminal force in live music.

Grateful Dead - Full Concert from Spartan Stadium San Jose

Spartan Stadium
San Jose, CA, United States

April 22, 1979 | Video Length: 3:27:32
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  • On April 22, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at Spartan Stadium in San Jose, marking a significant moment in their evolution, as it was the first sh... Read Full Description >

    On April 22, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at Spartan Stadium in San Jose, marking a significant moment in their evolution, as it was the first show featuring keyboardist Brent Mydland, who would become a key member of the band for over a decade. This performance occurred shortly after the release of their studio album "From the Mars Hotel," which came out in 1974. By 1979, the band was renowned for its live performances and improvisational style, steadily building a fervent fan base. The inclusion of Mydland introduced a new dynamic to their sound, blending rock, jazz, and blues influences. The concert featured classic tunes such as "Jack Straw" and "Deal," reflecting their commitment to extended jams and audience engagement, a hallmark of their live shows. This period in the band's career was characterized by an expanding repertoire and a growing presence in the music scene, further solidifying their legacy as pioneers of the jam band genre.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - Complete Show at Seattle Center Coliseum

Seattle Center Coliseum
Seattle, WA, United States

July 1, 1979 | Video Length: 2:48:33
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  • On July 1, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed live at the Seattle Center Coliseum, delivering a quintessential concert experience that showcased their ... Read Full Description >

    On July 1, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed live at the Seattle Center Coliseum, delivering a quintessential concert experience that showcased their improvisational prowess and eclectic sound. This performance came shortly after the release of their album "From the Mars Hotel," which was released earlier in May 1974. By 1979, the band had already established themselves as a cultural phenomenon known for their extensive touring and dedicated fanbase, often referred to as "Deadheads." This concert exemplifies the band's signature blend of rock, folk, and jazz influences, along with their commitment to live performance as an evolving art form. Interestingly, during this period, the Grateful Dead were also expanding their visual presentation, incorporating more elaborate lighting and stage setups, which would continue to enhance the concert experience for fans.

Grateful Dead - Full Concert at Oakland Auditorium featuring multiple songs

Oakland Auditorium
Oakland, CA, United States

August 5, 1979 | Video Length: 3:11:24
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  • On August 5, 1979, during a period of considerable popularity, the Grateful Dead performed a live concert at the Oakland Auditorium in California. Thi... Read Full Description >

    On August 5, 1979, during a period of considerable popularity, the Grateful Dead performed a live concert at the Oakland Auditorium in California. This performance occurred shortly after the release of their studio album "From the Mars Hotel" (1974) and the live album "Dick's Picks Volume 1" (1993), which featured recordings from the early 1970s. By 1979, the Grateful Dead were solidifying their status as major musical innovators, known for their extended jams and blending of genres, particularly rock, folk, and jazz. The concert highlighted their improvisational skills, a defining characteristic of their live shows. Intriguingly, in this period, the band had built a dedicated fanbase that appreciated their unique blend of spontaneity and structure in performances, making each concert a distinct experience.

Grateful Dead - Scarlet Begonias / Fire On The Mountain Full Concert

Oakland Auditorium
Oakland, CA, United States

August 5, 1979 | Video Length: 23:01
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  • On August 5, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed an iconic live recording at the Oakland Auditorium, featuring the beloved pair of songs "Scarlet Begoni... Read Full Description >

    On August 5, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed an iconic live recording at the Oakland Auditorium, featuring the beloved pair of songs "Scarlet Begonias" and "Fire on the Mountain." This concert occurred in a rich period of the band's career, shortly after the release of their studio album "From the Mars Hotel" in 1974 and proceeding the "Shakedown Street" album, which came out later in 1978. By this time, the band had developed a reputation for their eclectic sound and improvisational live performances, making each concert a unique experience. Notably, "Scarlet Begonias" and "Fire on the Mountain" represent a seamless musical transition, demonstrating the band's ability to blend various styles. The performance also highlights a resurgence in the band's popularity in the late 1970s after navigating numerous lineup changes and periods of uncertainty earlier in the decade. The 1979 Oakland show is often celebrated for its energetic atmosphere and musicianship, further solidifying the ban

Grateful Dead [1080p Remaster] August 5, 1979 - Oakland Auditorium - Oakland, CA [Matrix]

Oakland Auditorium
Oakland, CA, United States

August 5, 1979 | Video Length: 3:19:11
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  • On August 5, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at the Oakland Auditorium during a creatively vibrant period in their career. Just prior to this live r... Read Full Description >

    On August 5, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at the Oakland Auditorium during a creatively vibrant period in their career. Just prior to this live recording, they released their studio album "From the Mars Hotel" in 1974 and "Blues for Allah" in 1975. In 1978, they released "Terrapin Station" and "Built to Last," showcasing their continued evolution in sound and songwriting. By 1979, the band was gaining momentum and embracing a more improvisational and experimental approach in their performances, a hallmark of their live shows. This year also marked their return to touring after a brief hiatus. The Oakland show captures a peak era of their live improvisation, characterized by fluid transitions between songs and extended jams that became staples of their performances. The recording itself reflects the band’s extensive fan base and varied musical influences, which solidified their status as pioneers in the live music scene.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - 8/13/79 at McNichols Sports Arena, Denver, CO

McNichols Sports Arena
Denver, CO, United States

August 13, 1979 | Video Length: 2:42:50
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  • On August 13, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at the McNichols Sports Arena in Denver, Colorado, capturing a pivotal moment in their extensive live ... Read Full Description >

    On August 13, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at the McNichols Sports Arena in Denver, Colorado, capturing a pivotal moment in their extensive live performance history. Prior to this concert, the band released their album "From the Mars Hotel" in 1974 and "Wake of the Flood" in 1973, showcasing their blend of rock, jazz, and folk influences. By 1979, the Grateful Dead were well-established as a live touring band, known for their improvisational style and dedicated fan base, often referred to as "Deadheads." This concert occurred during a prolific period for the band, as they were actively touring to promote their 1978 release "From the Mars Hotel." The setlist from the show featured staples such as "Shakedown Street" and "Friend of the Devil," highlighting their commitment to evolving their performances while honoring fan favorites. This era marked the band's maturation in sound and live presence, further solidifying their legacy in the jam band scene.

Grateful Dead Performance of 'Shakedown Street' at New Haven Coliseum

New Haven Coliseum
New Haven, CT, USA

October 25, 1979 | Video Length: 15:24
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  • On October 25, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at the New Haven Coliseum, delivering a memorable rendition of "Shakedown Street" as the opener for t... Read Full Description >

    On October 25, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at the New Haven Coliseum, delivering a memorable rendition of "Shakedown Street" as the opener for their second set. This live performance occurred during a pivotal time in the band's career, following the release of their studio album "From the Mars Hotel" in 1974 and leading up to the country-inspired album "Go to Heaven," which would come out in 1980. By 1979, the Grateful Dead were renowned for their extensive touring and improvisational style, solidifying their reputation as a seminal live band. Notably, the late 1970s saw them embrace a more polished sound, yet they maintained their quintessential blend of rock, folk, and jazz. This performance exemplifies their ability to captivate audiences with extended jams and a vibrant live atmosphere, hallmark traits that contributed to their enduring legacy. The upgrade of this recording highlights the continuing interest in their live shows, affirming their importance in the musical lands

Scarlet Begonias / Fire on the Mountain - Full Concert by Grateful Dead at Nassau Coliseum

Nassau Coliseum
Uniondale, NY, USA

November 1, 1979 | Video Length: 35:03
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  • On November 1, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at the Nassau Coliseum, showcasing a notable live rendition of "Scarlet Begonias" followed by "Fire o... Read Full Description >

    On November 1, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at the Nassau Coliseum, showcasing a notable live rendition of "Scarlet Begonias" followed by "Fire on the Mountain." This performance occurred shortly after the release of their studio album "From the Mars Hotel," which came out in 1974, indicating that the band was well-established in their career by this time, known for their exploratory live performances and eclectic blend of rock, jazz, and folk influences. During this period, the Grateful Dead had solidified their reputation as a premier live act, often extending songs into remarkable improvisational sections, as evidenced by Brent Mydland’s contributions in this recording. The seamless transition between "Scarlet Begonias" and "Fire on the Mountain" is a hallmark of their concerts, emphasizing their signature style of melding songs and creating a unique experience for their audience.

Grateful Dead Live Concert at Golden Hall, San Diego - News 8 Throwback

Golden Hall
San Diego, CA, United States

November 30, 1979 | Video Length: 54
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  • On November 30, 1979, the Grateful Dead played a sold-out concert at Golden Hall in San Diego, California. At this point in their career, the band had... Read Full Description >

    On November 30, 1979, the Grateful Dead played a sold-out concert at Golden Hall in San Diego, California. At this point in their career, the band had recently released their album "From the Mars Hotel" in June 1974, and they were in the midst of a prolific period, with "Terrapin Station" and other fan-favorites becoming staples in their live performances. The 1979 concert featured a mix of their classic tracks and newer material, showcasing their improvisational style and commitment to live music. Notably, the Grateful Dead were known for their extensive touring and the development of a devoted fan base known as "Deadheads," many of whom followed them across the country. Their ability to blend rock, folk, bluegrass, and jazz made their live shows unique experiences, further solidifying their legacy in American music culture. This performance exemplifies the band's electrifying presence and connection with their audience during this vibrant era of their career.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - 12/3/1979 - Uptown Theatre, Chicago

Uptown Theatre
Chicago, IL, United States

December 3, 1979 | Video Length: 2:59:00
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  • On December 3, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at the Uptown Theatre in Chicago, showcasing their signature blend of rock, folk, and improvisational... Read Full Description >

    On December 3, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at the Uptown Theatre in Chicago, showcasing their signature blend of rock, folk, and improvisational psychedelia during a period of evolving musical experimentation. This concert came shortly after the release of their studio album "From the Mars Hotel" in 1974 and just before "Go to Heaven," which was released in 1980. The band's approach to live performances was pivotal, as they often prioritized improvisation and extended jams, making each concert a unique experience. Notably, the late '70s marked a significant period for the Grateful Dead, as they solidified their cult following and began to achieve greater commercial success. The inclusion of songs like "Althea" and "The Music Never Stopped" in the set further illustrates their ability to blend new material with classic favorites, engaging their audience while continuously evolving their sound.

Grateful Dead: 'Uncle John's Band' Live at Oakland Auditorium Arena

Oakland Auditorium Arena
Oakland, CA, United States

December 26, 1979 | Video Length: 10:15
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  • In December 1979, the Grateful Dead were in a vibrant period of their career, performing live at the Oakland Auditorium Arena shortly after the releas... Read Full Description >

    In December 1979, the Grateful Dead were in a vibrant period of their career, performing live at the Oakland Auditorium Arena shortly after the release of their studio album, "From the Mars Hotel," in 1974. This era was marked by extensive touring and a devoted fan base, as the band was renowned for their improvisational jams and unique live performances. The performance of "Uncle John's Band" featured in the video was later included in the "Dick's Picks Vol. 5," released in 1996, showcasing the Dead's ability to reinterpret their material in live settings. By this time, the band's sound had evolved, incorporating elements from various genres, and they had established a significant cultural impact seen through their dedicated following known as "Deadheads." This recording is an emblem of their enduring presence and artistry in the live music scene.

Grateful Dead Live Performance of 'Shakedown St/UJB Reprise' from Oakland

Oakland, Ca, United States

December 26, 1979 | Video Length: 16:31
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  • In December 1979, when the Grateful Dead performed "Shakedown Street" and "UJB Reprise" in Oakland, California, they were in a period characterized by... Read Full Description >

    In December 1979, when the Grateful Dead performed "Shakedown Street" and "UJB Reprise" in Oakland, California, they were in a period characterized by significant evolution in their sound and style. Prior to this concert, the band had released the studio album "From the Mars Hotel" in 1974 and "Wake of the Flood" in 1973, marking their shift towards more polished productions. By 1978, they had released “Terrapin Station,” showcasing their continued exploration of musical boundaries. The live performance from December 1979 is a testament to their improvisational prowess, as the band was known for their extensive jams and unique arrangements during live shows. This specific recording highlights their ability to merge complex rhythms and melodies, creating an immersive experience that fans cherished. The late 70s were pivotal for the Grateful Dead, as they solidified their reputation as one of the leading live acts in rock music.

Grateful Dead - Althea Live Performance at Oakland Auditorium

Oakland Auditorium
Oakland, CA, United States

December 31, 1979 | Video Length: 10:08
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  • By December 31, 1979, the Grateful Dead had significantly solidified their status as a prominent live band known for their improvisational style and d... Read Full Description >

    By December 31, 1979, the Grateful Dead had significantly solidified their status as a prominent live band known for their improvisational style and dynamic live performances. The release preceding this live recording was "From the Mars Hotel," which came out in 1974. They had also released several albums during the late 1970s, including "Terrapin Station," and "Blues for Allah," showcasing their ability to evolve artistically. The performance captured in the Oakland Auditorium serves as a testament to their extensive touring history, where the band often experimented with their setlists and arrangements. Notably, this era was marked by increasing popularity and larger tours, emphasizing their deep connection with the live audience. The song "Althea," performed in this recording, became a staple in their repertoire, reflecting their cultural impact and ongoing influence on the jam band scene.

Grateful Dead Live Performance of 'China Cat Sunflower / I Know You Rider'

Oakland Auditorium
Oakland, CA, United States

December 31, 1979 | Video Length: 14:13
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  • On December 31, 1979, during a pivotal period in their career, the Grateful Dead performed at the Oakland Auditorium, capturing the iconic pair of son... Read Full Description >

    On December 31, 1979, during a pivotal period in their career, the Grateful Dead performed at the Oakland Auditorium, capturing the iconic pair of songs "China Cat Sunflower" and "I Know You Rider." This live recording came shortly after the release of their studio album "From the Mars Hotel" in 1974, and prior to the highly regarded "Go to Heaven" in 1980. The late 1970s marked a significant time for the band as they were solidifying their reputation for improvisational live performances, which would become legendary. The Oakland show also underscores the Grateful Dead's unique ability to blend genres, infuse spontaneity into their concerts, and cultivate a loyal fanbase known for their dedication. Notably, this era featured a transformation in the band's sound, leaning towards more polished productions while maintaining the essence of their improvisational roots.

Grateful Dead [4K Remaster] 12 31 1979 (Set 2 of 3) [MATRIX]

Winterland Arena
San Francisco, CA, United States

December 31, 1979 | Video Length: 58:42
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  • On December 31, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at the Winterland Arena in San Francisco, a significant point in their career during a prolific peri... Read Full Description >

    On December 31, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed at the Winterland Arena in San Francisco, a significant point in their career during a prolific period of live performances. Prior to this show, the band had released their studio album "From the Mars Hotel" in 1974, following it with "Blues for Allah" in 1975. By the time of the New Year's Eve concert, they were deeply engaged in their powerful live improvisations that defined their sound, often performing extended jams and unique arrangements of songs. Notably, this performance captures the Grateful Dead at a time when they were beginning to experiment with more complex structures and incorporating elements from various genres into their music. It also reflects their commitment to live recordings, which became a cornerstone of their legacy, showcasing their artistic identity and the communal atmosphere they fostered among their fans.

Grateful Dead - Franklin's Tower - Full Concert at Oakland Auditorium

Oakland Auditorium
Oakland, CA, United States

December 31, 1979 | Video Length: 17:03
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  • On December 31, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed "Franklin's Tower" at the Oakland Auditorium, which was a significant moment as it marked the end of... Read Full Description >

    On December 31, 1979, the Grateful Dead performed "Franklin's Tower" at the Oakland Auditorium, which was a significant moment as it marked the end of the 1970s, a pivotal decade for the band. Prior to this live recording, the Grateful Dead had released their studio album "From the Mars Hotel" in 1974 and their double live album "Europe ’72," which solidified their reputation as a top live act. By the time of the Oakland concert, they had also been exploring new musical territories with their live improvisations, which became a hallmark of their performances. Notably, "Franklin's Tower" is a fan favorite, showcasing the band’s ability to weave intricate musical narratives. This performance reflects their evolving sound and the strong connection they had developed with their audience during this era, highlighting a period of creativity and exploration in their live shows.

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