Grateful Dead

Grateful Dead Live Performance of 'Althea' from 1981 Concert

• In early 1981, the Grateful Dead were at a pivotal moment in their career, having recently released their album "Go to Heaven" in April 1980. This was... Read Full Description >

  In early 1981, the Grateful Dead were at a pivotal moment in their career, having recently released their album "Go to Heaven" in April 1980. This was a significant album for the band, showcasing their blend of rock, folk, and jazz influences while presenting a more polished sound than some of their earlier work. By the time of the live performance of "Althea" in March 1981, the band was actively touring and refining their live set, which was a hallmark of their identity. The song "Althea," written by Jerry Garcia and Robert Hunter, had debuted on "From the Mars Hotel" in 1974 but had become a staple in their live repertoire by the early '80s. The performance captured in Germany reflects the band's improvisational style and their ability to connect deeply with the audience, a trait that defined their ongoing legacy as pioneers of the jam band movement.

Jerry Garcia Takes the Stage for Grateful Dead at Rockpalast, Germany

Rockpalast
Germany

• On January 1, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at the Rockpalast in Germany, marking a significant period in their career characterized by internatio... Read Full Description >

  On January 1, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at the Rockpalast in Germany, marking a significant period in their career characterized by international tours and experimentation with live sound. Prior to this performance, the band had released "Go to Heaven" in 1980, which showcased their evolving sound and incorporated elements of pop and rock, aiming for greater commercial appeal. This era also saw the Dead expand their audience outside of the United States, with European tours offering new markets and fan engagement opportunities. Notably, during this period, the band’s concert experiences were becoming increasingly legendary for their improvisational jams and diverse setlists, highlighting their reputation as one of the quintessential live bands of the era. The Rockpalast performance is a testament to their dynamic stage presence and the enduring appeal of their eclectic musical style.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - Live at Uptown Theater, Chicago

Uptown Theater
Chicago, IL, United States

• On February 28, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at the Uptown Theater in Chicago, a notable venue during their prolific career. By this point, the b... Read Full Description >

  On February 28, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at the Uptown Theater in Chicago, a notable venue during their prolific career. By this point, the band had recently released their album "Go to Heaven" in April 1980, which was their first studio album after a three-year hiatus. The release marked a phase of renewed creativity and experimentation, evident in their live performances. During this era, the Dead were known for their unique blend of rock, folk, bluegrass, and jazz influences, along with intricate improvisation. The Chicago show features a mix of fan favorites and new material, showcasing their ability to engage audiences with extended jams and fluid setlists. Interestingly, the band was also in the midst of their "Shakedown Street" tour at this time, which emphasized their strong live presence and cemented their status as a pivotal figure in the jam band scene.

Grateful Dead Live Performance of 'Althea' at Madison Square Garden

Madison Square Garden
New York, NY, United States

• On March 9, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at Madison Square Garden, showcasing their vibrant live sound and improvisational prowess. At this time,... Read Full Description >

  On March 9, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at Madison Square Garden, showcasing their vibrant live sound and improvisational prowess. At this time, the band was in a prolific phase, having released their studio album "Go to Heaven" in April 1980. "Althea," the song performed at this concert, is featured on their 1980 album "From the Mars Hotel," which presents a blend of rock, folk, and blues elements that the band is known for. This period was marked by a solidification of their reputation as one of the preeminent live bands in the U.S. Their performances in the early 1980s were characterized by an expanding fan base, symbolizing the peak of their touring legacy. Notably, the Manhattan show was part of a series of sold-out performances at Madison Square Garden, a venue that would become iconic for the band. The mixing of musical genres and the improvisational nature of their live shows contributed to the enduring cult status of their performances.

Grateful Dead Live Performance of 'Althea' in Hartford, CT

Hartford, CT, United States

• On March 14, 1981, during a performance in Hartford, Connecticut, the Grateful Dead showcased "Althea," a track from their 1980 album *Go to Heaven*. ... Read Full Description >

  On March 14, 1981, during a performance in Hartford, Connecticut, the Grateful Dead showcased "Althea," a track from their 1980 album *Go to Heaven*. The band was in a prolific phase of their career, having released several albums since their inception in the mid-1960s. *Go to Heaven* was characterized by a more polished sound and included tracks that became staples in their live repertoire. The live recording captures the band's signature improvisational style and ability to transcend studio versions, which was a central aspect of their appeal. Notably, by this time in their career, the Grateful Dead had developed a dedicated fanbase, known as "Deadheads," who were passionate about attending live shows and experiencing the unique energy of each performance. Their concerts in the early '80s, including this one, reflected both the band's evolution and the deep connection they maintained with their audience.

Grateful Dead - Lost Sailor/Saint of Circumstance from Hartford Civic Center

Civic Center
Hartford, CT, United States

• On March 14, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed live at the Hartford Civic Center, showcasing their unique blend of rock, blues, and improvisational ja... Read Full Description >

  On March 14, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed live at the Hartford Civic Center, showcasing their unique blend of rock, blues, and improvisational jam bands. This concert occurred during a period of consistent touring and performance for the band, following the release of their acclaimed album "Go to Heaven" in 1980, which featured popular tracks like "Althea" and "Feel Like a Stranger." The live recording captures the band during a dynamic phase when they were honing their setlist and increasingly leaning into extended jams. Notably, "Lost Sailor" and its companion piece "Saint of Circumstance" were part of a suite that became a staple in their repertoire, symbolizing the band's ability to fuse lyrical storytelling with improvisation. This performance in Hartford is significant not only for its musicality but also for its representation of the band's dedicated fanbase, as the Grateful Dead cultivated a unique culture surrounding live shows.

Grateful Dead Full Concert at Rainbow Theatre, London – Features Jack Straw, Bird Song, and More

Rainbow Theatre
London, England

• On March 23, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at the Rainbow Theatre in London, capturing the essence of their improvisational style during a period ... Read Full Description >

  On March 23, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at the Rainbow Theatre in London, capturing the essence of their improvisational style during a period of resurgence in their career. Leading up to this concert, the band had released their album "Go to Heaven" in 1980, which included popular tracks like "Alabama Getaway" and "Uncle John's Band." This era marked a significant evolution in their sound, blending traditional rock with their signature exploratory jams. The Rainbow Theatre show showcased this live energy, featuring beloved songs such as "Jack Straw" and "Terrapin Station." Notably, this concert occurred during a time when the Grateful Dead was expanding their international tours, gaining a dedicated following in Europe. Their willingness to adapt and collaborate musically during this period made them a unique force in rock music, culminating in memorable live performances like the one captured on this recording.

Grateful Dead - Full Concert - Rockpalast, Essen, Germany (1981)

Essen

• On March 28, 1981, during the Grateful Dead's European tour, the band was riding the wave of their growing popularity, following the release of their ... Read Full Description >

  On March 28, 1981, during the Grateful Dead's European tour, the band was riding the wave of their growing popularity, following the release of their album "Go to Heaven" in April 1980. This period marked a significant transition for the group, as they were beginning to embrace a more polished studio sound while still retaining their improvisational live performance ethos. The live recording from Rockpalast captured the eclectic energy of their shows, featuring extended jams and a blend of rock, blues, and folk influences that were hallmarks of the band's style. Interestingly, the 1981 tour was also notable for its mix of original songs and well-loved covers, showcasing the band's ability to continually evolve their setlists. The concert in Essen exemplified their strong connection with European audiences, a vital part of the Dead's extensive touring reputation, and it served to solidify their legacy as one of the quintessential live bands in music history.

Grateful Dead - The Other One | 4K Remaster from Rockpalast, Germany

Rockpalast
Germany, Germany

• On March 28, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at Rockpalast in Germany, a pivotal moment during their extensive touring career. At this time, the ban... Read Full Description >

  On March 28, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at Rockpalast in Germany, a pivotal moment during their extensive touring career. At this time, the band had recently released "Go to Heaven" in April 1980, which marked their first studio album since 1978's "From the Mars Hotel." This period was characterized by a blend of traditional rock influences and the band’s experimental sound, emphasizing their identity as pioneers of live improvisational performance. The concert at Rockpalast showcased the band's collaborative chemistry and superb musicianship, especially evident in "The Other One," a staple of their live repertoire. The 1980s were significant for the Grateful Dead, as they began to gain immense international popularity, further solidifying their status as icons in the jam band scene. Their ability to adapt and innovate while maintaining their core principles of musical exploration was evident in this live performance.

Grateful Dead - Shakedown Street Live at Rockpalast, Germany (1981) 4K Remaster

Rockpalast
Germany, Germany

• On March 28, 1981, during their performance at Rockpalast in Germany, the Grateful Dead were in a vibrant phase of their career, marked by a devoted f... Read Full Description >

  On March 28, 1981, during their performance at Rockpalast in Germany, the Grateful Dead were in a vibrant phase of their career, marked by a devoted fanbase and a prolific live performance schedule. Prior to this recording, in 1980, they released the studio album "Go to Heaven," which included the hit single "Alabama Getaway." This period was characterized by the band's exploration of new musical styles, blending rock, jazz, and improvisational elements. The Rockpalast performance showcases their extensive improvisation and musicianship, hallmarks of their live shows. Notably, 1981 saw the band continue their tradition of extensive touring and live recordings, which became a crucial aspect of their identity as a band. The Rockpalast concert is a testament to their resilience and creativity in the live music scene, captivating audiences with their unique sound and dynamic performances.

Grateful Dead [4k50p Remaster] - Althea - 1981 03 28 (pro shot) Rockpalast Germany

Rockpalast
Germany, Germany

• By March 28, 1981, when the Grateful Dead performed at Rockpalast in Germany, the band was well-established in their career and had just released thei... Read Full Description >

  By March 28, 1981, when the Grateful Dead performed at Rockpalast in Germany, the band was well-established in their career and had just released their album "Go to Heaven" in April 1980. This album marked a notable moment in their discography, as it was their first studio album since 1978's "From the Mars Hotel" and featured songs like "Althea," which was notably performed at this concert. The live recording showcases the band’s improvisational style and concert dynamics, hallmarks of their performances. Interestingly, their tours during this period demonstrated a growing international fan base, allowing them to reach audiences in Europe more frequently. The Rockpalast performance exemplifies the band’s unique blend of rock, folk, and jazz, highlighting their status as one of the most influential live acts of the era.

Grateful Dead - Sugaree Performance from Rockpalast Concert (4K Remaster)

Rockpalast
Germany, Germany

• By March 28, 1981, the Grateful Dead had firmly established themselves as a cornerstone of the American rock scene, known for their improvisational ab... Read Full Description >

  By March 28, 1981, the Grateful Dead had firmly established themselves as a cornerstone of the American rock scene, known for their improvisational abilities and extensive live performances. Leading up to this memorable performance at Rockpalast in Germany, the band had released their album "Go to Heaven" in April 1980, which marked their return with a more polished sound and included the hit single "Alabama Getaway." At this time, they were transitioning through a phase of fluctuating public reception; while "Go to Heaven" gained commercial success, it received mixed critical reviews that reflected the division between their long-standing fan base and the mainstream audience. The 1981 concert featured the beloved song "Sugaree," showcasing their ability to craft lengthy, exploratory versions of their tunes. The Rockpalast performance was significant not just as part of their European tour, but also as an important documentation of their live energy during a pivotal era in their career

Grateful Dead [4k50p Remaster] - Ship of Fools - 1981 03 28 (pro shot) Rockpalast Germany

Rockpalast
Germany, Germany

• On March 28, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at Rockpalast in Germany, a period marked by considerable evolution for the band. By this time, they ha... Read Full Description >

  On March 28, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at Rockpalast in Germany, a period marked by considerable evolution for the band. By this time, they had released their album "Go to Heaven" in 1980, which showcased a more polished sound compared to their earlier, more improvisational works. This tour in 1981 came after a phase when the band was gaining significant international recognition, bolstered by their live performances and loyal fan base. Interestingly, during this era, the band was also incorporating more new material into their sets, as evidenced by their performance of "Ship of Fools," which was included on "From the Mars Hotel," released the previous year. This period reflected a balance between their extensive improvisational roots and a growing emphasis on songcraft, which would resonate with both old and new fans alike. Moreover, the Rockpalast concert itself is notable as it exemplified the band's ability to attract diverse audiences across Europe.

Grateful Dead Acoustic Performance of 'Dire Wolf' and 'Deep Elem Blues' on The Tomorrow Show

NBC Studios
New York, NY, USA

• In May 1981, during the broadcast of their performance on Tom Snyder's "The Tomorrow Show," the Grateful Dead were coming off a period of significant ... Read Full Description >

  In May 1981, during the broadcast of their performance on Tom Snyder's "The Tomorrow Show," the Grateful Dead were coming off a period of significant activity and transformation. Their prior studio album, "Go to Heaven," was released in April 1980 and marked a transition, incorporating a more polished sound compared to their earlier work. By this time in their career, they were well-established in the music scene, renowned for their improvisational skills and extensive live performances. The acoustic segment featured in the video showcases their versatility, highlighting a stripped-down version of their sound, which resonated with the bohemian and countercultural ethos they were associated with. Notably, the presence of writer Ken Kesey during the interview segment underscores the band's connections to the 1960s counterculture, further emphasizing their influence and legacy in the American music landscape.

Grateful Dead - 'Shakedown Street' Live at Veteran's Memorial Coliseum, New Haven

Veteran's Memorial Coliseum
New Haven, CT, US

• On May 12, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at the Veteran's Memorial Coliseum in New Haven, Connecticut, showcasing their signature blend of rock, f... Read Full Description >

  On May 12, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at the Veteran's Memorial Coliseum in New Haven, Connecticut, showcasing their signature blend of rock, folk, and improvisational jamming in the live recording of "Shakedown Street." Leading up to this date, the band had released their eponymous studio album "Grateful Dead" in 1980. This period was significant for the band, as they were experiencing a resurgence in popularity, aided by the release of their "Go to Heaven" album just a year earlier, which included hits that resonated with both old fans and new audiences. Notably, during the early '80s, Grateful Dead's live shows were marked by an evolving setlist that often included extended jams, demonstrating their commitment to live improvisation. The New Haven show captures the essence of their live performances during this vibrant phase in their career, highlighting their ability to blend structured songs with spontaneous exploration.

Grateful Dead Full Concert Performance at Providence Civic Center

Providence Civic Center
Providence, RI, United States

• On May 13, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at the Providence Civic Center during a prolific era of their career. This live recording captures the ba... Read Full Description >

  On May 13, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at the Providence Civic Center during a prolific era of their career. This live recording captures the band's celebrated improvisational style and showcases their ability to blend rock, folk, and jazz elements. Prior to this performance, the band released their album "Go to Heaven" in April 1980, which included notable songs like "Althea." By 1981, the Grateful Dead were well-established, regularly touring and cultivating a devoted fanbase known as "Deadheads." This period was marked by a burgeoning live music industry, and the Grateful Dead were key figures in it, integrating live recording and soundboard technology into their performances. The band’s signature extended jam sequences and varied setlists during this time encapsulated their dynamic stage presence, making concerts like the one in Providence memorable experiences for fans.

Grateful Dead Full Concert: 7/2/1981 at The Summit, Houston

The Summit
Houston, TX, United States

• By July 2, 1981, the Grateful Dead were in the midst of a prolific period, having released their album "Terrapin Station" just a few months earlier in... Read Full Description >

  By July 2, 1981, the Grateful Dead were in the midst of a prolific period, having released their album "Terrapin Station" just a few months earlier in February 1980. This album featured a distinct blend of rock and jazz, exemplifying the band's experimental approach during the late '70s and early '80s. Notably, their live performance at The Summit in Houston showcases their signature improvisational style, which was a hallmark of their concerts. The setlist from this recording includes fan-favorites like "Scarlet Begonias" and "Fire on the Mountain," highlighting their commitment to engaging with the audience through extended jams. The band was also known for their dedicated fan base and culture, so this concert would have been an essential experience for those following their ever-evolving sound and live shows. The combination of their recent album release and the vibrant atmosphere of their live performance captures a significant moment in their ongoing legacy within the music scene.

Grateful Dead Full Concert Live in Austin, TX - Jack Straw & Peggy-O

Manor Downs
Austin, TX, United States

• On July 4, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at Manor Downs in Austin, Texas, solidifying their reputation for dynamic live performances. This recordi... Read Full Description >

  On July 4, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at Manor Downs in Austin, Texas, solidifying their reputation for dynamic live performances. This recording captures a pivotal moment in their career, as they were actively touring and had recently released their album "Go to Heaven" in April 1980. The band was known for their improvisational style and extended jams, both of which are evident in this performance. The early 1980s marked a flourishing period for the Dead, characterized by a loyal fanbase and increasing popularity. Notably, this era saw the incorporation of more polished production techniques in their live sound. The choice of the July 4th date reflected their strong connection with fans during the summer tour season, often celebrated as a festive time for live music. This performance is a testament to their enduring legacy and the communal spirit they cultivated through their concerts.

Grateful Dead Full Concert at Zoo Amphitheatre, Oklahoma City - Shakedown Street

Zoo Amphitheatre
Oklahoma City, OK, United States

• On July 5, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at the Zoo Amphitheatre in Oklahoma City, showcasing their signature blend of rock, folk, and psychedelic... Read Full Description >

  On July 5, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at the Zoo Amphitheatre in Oklahoma City, showcasing their signature blend of rock, folk, and psychedelic music. This performance came shortly after the release of their studio album "Go to Heaven," which was their first album of the 1980s, released in April 1980. The concert featured a vibrant setlist, including tracks like "Shakedown Street" and "Althea," reflecting their ability to merge improvisational jams with structured songs. During this period, the Grateful Dead was gaining significant momentum as a major live act, and the band was known for their loose and exploratory performances, often turning songs into extensive jam sessions. Interestingly, the summer of 1981 was part of a successful tour that solidified their place in the American music scene, attracting diverse audiences and strengthening their communal culture around live performances.

Grateful Dead Full Concert Performance - October 15, 1981 in Amsterdam

Amsterdam

• On October 15, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at the Melkweg in Amsterdam, showcasing their distinctive blend of rock, jazz, and folk influences. T... Read Full Description >

  On October 15, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed at the Melkweg in Amsterdam, showcasing their distinctive blend of rock, jazz, and folk influences. This live recording captures a period when the band was in a prolific phase, having released their studio album "Go to Heaven" earlier that same year, in April 1980. The album represented a significant moment in their career, featuring the hit single "Alabama Getaway" and showcasing a more polished sound compared to their earlier, experimental works. The late 1980s marked a transitional period for the band, as they navigated changing musical landscapes and internal dynamics. Notably, this live performance exemplifies the Grateful Dead's commitment to improvisation and long, exploratory jams, a hallmark of their live presence which attracted a devoted audience. Their concerts during this era were known for a deeply engaged fanbase, which gathered to experience their unique blend of spontaneity and musical exploration.

Grateful Dead Full Concert at Club Melkweg, Amsterdam - October 16, 1981

Club Melkweg
Amsterdam, Netherlands

• On October 16, 1981, when the Grateful Dead performed at Club Melkweg in Amsterdam, they were near the tail end of a prolific touring period, followin... Read Full Description >

  On October 16, 1981, when the Grateful Dead performed at Club Melkweg in Amsterdam, they were near the tail end of a prolific touring period, following their 1980 album "Go to Heaven." This album showcased a more polished sound with tracks like "Alabama Getaway" and "Uncle John's Band," reflecting the band's evolution in the late '70s and early '80s. Interesting to note, during this era, the Grateful Dead were known for their experimental live shows, incorporating extended jams and diverse musical styles that set them apart from other rock bands of the time. This performance in Amsterdam is part of that legacy, illustrating their dedication to live improvisation and their international fan base, as they continued to build a substantial following beyond the United States. The band's willingness to engage with their audience and push musical boundaries at venues like Club Melkweg contributed significantly to their enduring appeal.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - Complete MTX from Hara Arena, Dayton, OH

Hara Arena
Dayton, OH, United States

• On November 30, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed a live concert at Hara Arena in Dayton, Ohio, showcasing their storied legacy as a cornerstone of th... Read Full Description >

  On November 30, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed a live concert at Hara Arena in Dayton, Ohio, showcasing their storied legacy as a cornerstone of the jam band movement. This performance came shortly after the release of their album "In the Dark," which was dropped in 1987 and included hits like "Touch of Grey." While the band had been on the road since the late 1960s, their 1981 show continued the tradition of extended improvisations and collaborative performance that characterized their concerts. Notably, during the early '80s, the Grateful Dead were solidifying their popularity, especially with younger audiences drawn to their unique blend of rock, folk, and blues influences. This era marked a pivotal moment as the band began to reap the rewards of their extensive touring, leading to a vibrant live sound that fans still celebrate today. The setlist from this concert reflects their commitment to both new material and beloved classics, illustrating how they melded spontaneity with mu

Grateful Dead Full Concert - December 3, 1981 at Dane County Coliseum

Dane County Coliseum
Madison, WI, United States

• On December 3, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed a concert at the Dane County Coliseum in Madison, Wisconsin, during a prolific period in their career... Read Full Description >

  On December 3, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed a concert at the Dane County Coliseum in Madison, Wisconsin, during a prolific period in their career. This live recording comes after the release of their studio album "Go to Heaven," which was released in April 1980. This era was marked by a blend of their established improvisational style with more polished studio production, evident in the songs from the "Go to Heaven" album. The band's live shows during this period were known for their energetic performances and extended jams, continuing to build on their reputation from the late 1960s and 1970s. Notably, this concert occurred during the late 1981 tour, which included a variety of setlists and showcased their ability to blend different genres. The Grateful Dead's commitment to live performances and extensive touring made each concert a unique experience, adding to their legendary status in rock history.

Grateful Dead [4K Remaster] 12 31 1981 (Set 1 of 3) -- [PRO SHOT / FLAC SBD]

Fillmore Auditorium
New Year's Eve Concert, CA, United States

• On December 31, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed a New Year's Eve concert at the Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco, marking a vibrant period in th... Read Full Description >

  On December 31, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed a New Year's Eve concert at the Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco, marking a vibrant period in their career characterized by extensive touring and a dedicated fanbase. Prior to this live recording, the band had released their album "Go to Heaven" in April 1980, which featured the hit single "Alabama Getaway." This era was notably marked by the band's exploration of new soundscapes while maintaining their signature improvisational style. The late 1980s and early 1990s would see them continue to grow in popularity, often selling out large venues and developing a loyal following known for their dedication to live concerts. The 1981 performance showcases the band's commitment to live improvisation and sets the stage for their subsequent albums and legendary concerts that would follow in the years to come.

Grateful Dead [4K Remaster] 12 31 1981 (Set 2 of 3) -- [PRO SHOT / FLAC SBD]

Fillmore Auditorium
Fillmore, CA, United States

• On December 31, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed a live recording at the Fillmore Auditorium, which was a notable venue for the band, especially know... Read Full Description >

  On December 31, 1981, the Grateful Dead performed a live recording at the Fillmore Auditorium, which was a notable venue for the band, especially known for its intimate atmosphere. By this time in their career, the band had just released their studio album "In the Dark" in 1987, which featured one of their most commercially successful songs, "Touch of Grey." However, during this period in the early '80s, the Grateful Dead was in a phase of revitalization; they were gaining a new generation of fans and experiencing a resurgence in popularity partly due to their live performances. The New Year's Eve show is particularly special as it showcases the band's improvisational skills and the tight-knit synergy among band members, traits that defined their live performances. The Fillmore venue holds historical significance for the band, marking their return to a landmark location after their earlier performances there in the 1960s.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - Oakland Auditorium Performance

Oakland Auditorium
Oakland, CA, United States