Grateful Dead

Grateful Dead - 'Uncle John's Band' Live Performance from So Far

Marin Veterans Memorial Auditorium
Marin, CA, United States

• In January 1985, the Grateful Dead were in a transitional phase, having just released their studio album "In the Dark" in 1987, which became one of th... Read Full Description >

  In January 1985, the Grateful Dead were in a transitional phase, having just released their studio album "In the Dark" in 1987, which became one of their most commercially successful efforts. The live recording of "Uncle John's Band," featured in the video "So Far," captures a unique moment in their career, as it was recorded in an empty Marin Veterans Memorial Auditorium. This album was a departure from their typical live performances, emphasizing the band's improvisational style and chemistry without an audience present. The focus on inter-band communication showcased their musicianship, giving fans a different perspective of their creative process. This live recording reflects the band's enduring legacy and their unique ability to reinvent their music, even as they were navigating the challenges of mainstream success and the evolving music landscape of the 1980s.

Grateful Dead - Full Concert at Berkeley Community Theater featuring 'Bertha' and 'Baby Blue'

Berkeley Community Theater
Berkeley, California, United States

• On March 9, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Berkeley Community Theater, a show notable for its blend of classic hits and improvisational jams... Read Full Description >

  On March 9, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Berkeley Community Theater, a show notable for its blend of classic hits and improvisational jams characteristic of their live performances. By this time in their career, the band had released their studio album *In the Dark* in 1987, which would become their most commercially successful album. However, in 1985, they were experiencing a resurgence in popularity, especially with younger audiences, largely due to the song "Touch of Grey," which was gaining radio play and exposure. This period marked a transitional phase for the band; they were embracing both their legacy as pioneers of improvisational rock music and the evolving landscape of the music industry. The setlist from the concert featured beloved tunes like “Sugar Magnolia” and “Eyes of the World,” showcasing their ability to extend songs into intricate, exploratory jams that transformed each live performance into a unique experience.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale, NY

Nassau Coliseum
Uniondale, NY, United States

• On March 28, 1985, during the performance at Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, NY, the Grateful Dead were firmly established as a prominent force in the m... Read Full Description >

  On March 28, 1985, during the performance at Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, NY, the Grateful Dead were firmly established as a prominent force in the music scene, having built a substantial following in the decade since they began to gain national attention. The year prior, in 1984, they released the studio album "In the Dark," which was notable for its commercial success, including the hit single "Touch of Grey." This marked a significant moment for the band, as it was their first album to achieve widespread radio play and significant sales since the early 1970s. The late '80s were a period when the Grateful Dead embraced a blend of their traditional sound with more mainstream influences, which helped attract a diverse audience. The 1985 show at Nassau Coliseum showcased the band’s signature improvisational style and dedication to live performance, reinforcing their reputation for long, exploratory jams and a unique concert experience that fostered a deep connection with fans.

Grateful Dead Full Concert at Nassau Coliseum, Uniondale, NY

Nassau Coliseum
Uniondale, NY, United States

• On March 29, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, NY, during a period marked by significant changes in their career.... Read Full Description >

  On March 29, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Nassau Coliseum in Uniondale, NY, during a period marked by significant changes in their career. Leading up to this live recording, the band had released their album *In the Dark* in 1987, which included the hit single "Touch of Grey." This song marked their first and only entry into the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100, revitalizing their popularity and introducing a new generation to their music. By 1985, the Grateful Dead was known for their extensive touring and legendary live performances, characterized by improvisation and a diverse mix of musical styles. The Nassau show showcases their evolving sound and ability to captivate large audiences, underscoring their reputation as one of the quintessential live bands of the era. This concert, recorded on video, serves as a testament to their enduring legacy and the strong connection they maintained with their fans through live music.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - Cumberland County Civic Center, Portland, ME

Cumberland County Civic Center
Portland, ME, United States

• On March 31, 1985, during the Grateful Dead's performance at the Cumberland County Civic Center in Portland, Maine, the band was amidst a vibrant phas... Read Full Description >

  On March 31, 1985, during the Grateful Dead's performance at the Cumberland County Civic Center in Portland, Maine, the band was amidst a vibrant phase in their career characterized by extensive touring and a passionate fan base known as the "Deadheads." Their previous studio album, "In the Dark," released in 1987, was notable for introducing a more polished sound, alongside their first notable commercial hit, "Touch of Grey." At this time, the Grateful Dead had solidified their reputation not just for their studio work but for their legendary live performances, seamlessly blending rock, bluegrass, and jazz elements with improvisational prowess. The 1985 tour was part of their overall commitment to live recording, with many shows often released as part of their extensive catalog, showcasing their ability to reinvent their music night after night. This concert is a testament to that enduring legacy.

Grateful Dead Full Concert at Cumberland County Civic Center, Portland, ME

Cumberland County Civic Center
Portland, ME, United States

• On March 31, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed a show at the Cumberland County Civic Center in Portland, Maine, during a dynamic period in their caree... Read Full Description >

  On March 31, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed a show at the Cumberland County Civic Center in Portland, Maine, during a dynamic period in their career. This performance took place shortly after the band's studio album, "In the Dark," which was released in 1987. "In the Dark" marked a significant resurgence for the band, featuring the hit single "Touch of Grey," which helped to introduce the Dead to a wider audience. By 1985, the Grateful Dead were well-established in the live music scene, known for their improvisational style and extensive touring. The Portland show captures the band's vibrant performance energy during this era, characterized by a mix of original material and beloved covers. Fans often recall that the mid-'80s concerts were notable for their diverse setlists and the band's evolving sound, reflecting their continuous growth and experimentation as live performers.

Grateful Dead - Full Concert at Cumberland County Civic Center, Portland, ME

Cumberland County Civic Center
Portland, ME, United States

• On April 1, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Cumberland County Civic Center in Portland, Maine. This concert came shortly after their album "I... Read Full Description >

  On April 1, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Cumberland County Civic Center in Portland, Maine. This concert came shortly after their album "In the Dark," which was released in 1987 and marked the band's commercial resurgence. By 1985, the band was known for their extensive touring and live improvisational style, which created a dedicated fanbase known as "Deadheads." This particular concert is notable as it was during a time when the band was enjoying a renewed popularity, partially due to their first major radio hit, "Touch of Grey," which would be released shortly after this show. Their ability to meld rock, folk, bluegrass, and jazz in a live setting was on full display, embodying the essence of their live performances that made them legends in the music scene. The recording exemplifies the unique energy and communal experience that characterized their shows, solidifying their legacy as a seminal American rock band.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - The Spectrum Philadelphia Remastered

The Spectrum
Philadelphia, PA, United States

• On April 7, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at The Spectrum in Philadelphia, showcasing their unique blend of rock, blues, and improvisational music... Read Full Description >

  On April 7, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at The Spectrum in Philadelphia, showcasing their unique blend of rock, blues, and improvisational music during a period marked by significant shifts in their career. Prior to this concert, the band had released their studio album "In the Dark" in 1987, which became their most commercially successful LP, featuring hits like "Touch of Grey." During this time, the Grateful Dead were heavily touring and expanding their audience, with live shows often regarded as transcendent experiences. This particular performance exemplifies their improvisational prowess, a hallmark of their live shows, allowing them to evolve and explore musically in real time. The 1985 concert also reflects their ability to captivate large venues despite facing challenges from changing musical landscapes and their own internal dynamics.

Grateful Dead Full Concert at The Spectrum, Philadelphia, PA

The Spectrum
Philadelphia, PA, United States

• On April 8, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed a concert at The Spectrum in Philadelphia, a notable venue for many of their live recordings. At this po... Read Full Description >

  On April 8, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed a concert at The Spectrum in Philadelphia, a notable venue for many of their live recordings. At this point in their career, the band had recently released their studio album "In the Dark" in 1987, which included hits like "Touch of Grey" that contributed to a resurgence in their popularity. The live show features the band's signature blend of rock, blues, and improvisational jams, offering fans a rich live experience that became their hallmark. Interestingly, this period marked a transition for the Grateful Dead; they were navigating newfound mainstream success while maintaining their dedication to extensive improvisation and unique concert experiences. The concert in question showcases the band's ability to connect with the audience, a defining aspect of their performances, and exemplifies their evolution during the mid-1980s.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - 4/28/1985 at Frost Amphitheater

Frost Amphitheater, Stanford University
Palo Alto, CA, United States

• On April 28, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Frost Amphitheater at Stanford University, a significant venue for the band known for its intima... Read Full Description >

  On April 28, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Frost Amphitheater at Stanford University, a significant venue for the band known for its intimate atmosphere and historical connection to the California music scene. By this time, the Grateful Dead had recently released the album **"In the Dark,"** which came out in 1987. This marked a pivotal moment in the band’s career as it provided them with a commercial boost, reaching a wider audience through the hit single “Touch of Grey.” The live recording from 1985 reflects the band's typical blend of rock, folk, and improvisational jam, showcasing their ability to continually evolve as performers. Notably, this concert captures the band during a period when they were increasingly becoming a phenomenon in American culture, drawing dedicated fans and the burgeoning “Deadhead” community that would follow them for decades.

Grateful Dead [1080p Remaster] June 15, 1985 - Greek Theater Berkeley, CA

Greek Theater
Berkeley, CA, United States

• On June 15, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Greek Theater in Berkeley, California, a venue closely associated with the band’s history. This... Read Full Description >

  On June 15, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Greek Theater in Berkeley, California, a venue closely associated with the band’s history. This concert was part of their prolific touring schedule during the mid-1980s, a time when they had recently released the studio album "In the Dark" in 1987, which included hits like "Touch of Grey." The live recording captures the band’s signature style, blending rock, blues, and improvisational jams, showcasing their adeptness at engaging with their audience. Interestingly, the 1985 concert falls within a period of revitalization for the Grateful Dead, as they were enjoying a surge in popularity and commercial success following the release of their first top 40 hit. Notably, the setlists from this era often featured a mix of classic material and newer songs, reflecting both their long-standing legacy and evolving sound.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - Hershey Park Soundboard Performance

Hershey Park Stadium
Hershey, PA, USA

• On June 28, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at Hershey Park Stadium in Pennsylvania, a time when the band was solidifying its status as a legendary ... Read Full Description >

  On June 28, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at Hershey Park Stadium in Pennsylvania, a time when the band was solidifying its status as a legendary live act. Prior to this concert, the band had released the studio album "In the Dark" in 1987, which featured the hit single "Touch of Grey." However, during 1985, the band was intensely touring and establishing a reputation for their improvisational live performances. The Hershey concert showcased their signature blend of rock, folk, and jazz influences, reflecting an era of creative exploration. Interestingly, this period was marked by a resurgence in their popularity, driven partly by the mainstream success of "In the Dark," which would come a couple of years later. The concert is notable for its lively setlist, showcasing both fan favorites and deep cuts, exemplifying the band’s unique approach to live music that celebrated spontaneous collaboration and audience interaction.

GD - Full Concert at Merriweather Post Pavilion featuring Mississippi Half-Step

Merriweather Post Pavilion
Columbia, MD, United States

• On June 30, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at Merriweather Post Pavilion during a period of significant evolution in their career. Leading up to th... Read Full Description >

  On June 30, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at Merriweather Post Pavilion during a period of significant evolution in their career. Leading up to this concert, the band released their studio album "In the Dark" in 1987, which marked a resurgence in their popularity and included hits like "Touch of Grey." At the time of the 1985 performance, the band was in the midst of a robust tour schedule, showcasing their improvisational style and unique blend of genres. Notably, this concert included several fan-favorite tracks such as "Mississippi Half-Step Uptown Toodeloo" and "C.C. Rider," indicative of their eclectic live set lists. The concert also highlights the band's extensive live performance history, which was crucial to their identity, as they thrived on the energy and spontaneity of their shows, making each performance a unique experience for their dedicated fanbase.

Grateful Dead Full Concert at Pittsburgh Civic Arena - July 2, 1985

Civic Arena
Pittsburgh, PA, USA

• On July 2, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Pittsburgh Civic Arena, showcasing their signature blend of rock, folk, bluegrass, and jazz influe... Read Full Description >

  On July 2, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Pittsburgh Civic Arena, showcasing their signature blend of rock, folk, bluegrass, and jazz influences. This live recording came shortly after the release of their album "In the Dark," which had hit stores in 1987. Notably, "In the Dark" marked a significant resurgence for the band, featuring their hit single "Touch of Grey" that propelled them into mainstream popularity. By the time of the Pittsburgh concert, the Grateful Dead were well-established within the live music scene, and their improvisational style was a hallmark of their performances. Interesting to note, the setlist for this concert showcases both their classic sound and an evolving repertoire, demonstrating their commitment to spontaneity during live shows. The presence of tracks like "Terrapin Station" and "Throwing Stones" highlights their lyrical depth and connection to social consciousness, attributes that have resonated with fans throughout their career.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - Ventura County Fairgrounds Performance

Ventura County Fairgrounds
Ventura, CA, United States

• On July 13, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Ventura County Fairgrounds in California, capturing the essence of their live improvisational sty... Read Full Description >

  On July 13, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Ventura County Fairgrounds in California, capturing the essence of their live improvisational style. Leading up to this performance, the band released their album "In the Dark" in 1987, which went on to become a significant commercial success, marking a resurgence in their popularity. However, at the time of the Ventura concert, they were still riding the wave of their 1984 album "Go to Heaven," which included popular tracks that contributed to their live setlists. The 1985 concert featured fan favorites like “Fire On The Mountain” and “The Music Never Stopped,” highlighting the band's ability to blend lyrical storytelling with elaborate jams. Notably, the Grateful Dead were well-known for their dedicated fanbase and unique concert culture, offering a different experience with each performance, a trait that continued to solidify their legacy in the live music scene.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - Looks Like Rain, Might As Well at Ventura County Fairgrounds

Ventura County Fairgrounds
Ventura, CA, United States

• On July 14, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, a notable event during a dynamic period in the band's career. This co... Read Full Description >

  On July 14, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, a notable event during a dynamic period in the band's career. This concert came shortly after the release of their studio album "In the Dark," which debuted in 1987 but was recorded in the mid-1980s. "In the Dark" marked a significant turning point for the band, as it included the hit "Touch of Grey," their first commercial success, which revitalized their popularity. By that time, the Grateful Dead had firmly established themselves as icons of live improvisational rock, known for their extensive tours and devoted fan base. The performance at Ventura captured the essence of their live experience and showcased their ability to blend genres, with tracks such as "Looks Like Rain" highlighting their signature sound. Additionally, the concert featured an interview with sound engineer Steve Parish, offering fans a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the band's creative process.

Grateful Dead Full Concert at Zoo Amphitheater, Oklahoma City

Zoo Amphitheater
Oklahoma City, OK, United States

• On September 2, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Zoo Amphitheater in Oklahoma City, marking a time when the band was deeply entrenched in thei... Read Full Description >

  On September 2, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Zoo Amphitheater in Oklahoma City, marking a time when the band was deeply entrenched in their live music legacy. This concert occurred shortly after the release of their album *In the Dark*, which came out in 1987. This album was particularly significant as it marked the band's return to studio recording after several years and included the hit "Touch of Grey," which brought them mainstream success. By 1985, the Grateful Dead were known for their improvisational style and engaging live performances, which were integral to their identity. Interestingly, this specific show is a testament to their enduring popularity, showcasing their unique blend of rock, folk, and blues, as well as their dedicated fan base, often referred to as "Deadheads." The live recording captures the essence of the band's vibrant concert experience, focusing on intricate musicianship and communal atmosphere.

Grateful Dead Full Concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, Morrison, CO

Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Morrison, CO, United States

• On September 5, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado, during a vibrant period of their career ... Read Full Description >

  On September 5, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado, during a vibrant period of their career marked by significant live performances. This concert occurred shortly after the release of their album "In the Dark," which came out in 1987, but at this point, they were still riding high from earlier successes such as "Go to Heaven" (1980) and "Reckoning" (1981), both of which had solidified their reputation in the live music scene. Notably, by 1985, the Grateful Dead had cultivated a loyal fanbase, drawn in by their improvisational style and notable live jams. The Red Rocks venue itself is celebrated for its natural acoustics, complementing the band's live sound. In addition, this period marked a time when the band had started to utilize technology, such as high-quality audio recording equipment, enhancing their live recordings and contributing to their enduring legacy in concert culture.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - Red Rocks Amphitheater Remaster

Red Rocks Amphitheater
Morrison, CO, United States

• On September 5, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado. This concert occurred during a period wh... Read Full Description >

  On September 5, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado. This concert occurred during a period when the band was experiencing significant popularity, particularly following the release of their album "In the Dark" in 1987, which marked a commercial high point for them. At this time, they were known for their extensive touring and engaging live performances, which often featured long improvisational segments, exemplified in the Red Rocks show. Interestingly, the concert took place as the band was beginning to embrace more mainstream success, highlighted by the song "Touch of Grey," which would later become their first radio hit. The choice of Red Rocks as a venue further emphasized their appeal, as it is renowned for its natural acoustics and beautiful scenery, making it a favored spot for both artists and fans. This performance is part of the rich tapestry of live recordings that showcase the Grateful Dead's unique blend of rock, jaz

Grateful Dead Full Concert - Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center, Oakland

Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center
Oakland, CA, United States

• On September 12, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center in Oakland, California, a notable venue for the band known... Read Full Description >

  On September 12, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center in Oakland, California, a notable venue for the band known for their extensive live touring and improvisational style. By this time in their career, the Grateful Dead had released their album "In the Dark" in 1987, which would bring them significant commercial success, including hits like "Touch of Grey." However, during the September 1985 performance, they were still in a phase of solidifying their status as a live band, continuing to build their fanbase. The 1985 concert captured at this venue reflects their eclectic repertoire and improvisational prowess, showcasing how they effectively fused rock, jazz, and folk music, creating a unique experience that fueled their cult following. This period was also marked by a growing emphasis on their live recordings, which became an integral part of their legacy.

Grateful Dead Full Concert at Carolina Coliseum - Funiculi Funicula and More

Carolina Coliseum
Columbia, SC, US

• On October 31, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Carolina Coliseum in Columbia, South Carolina, during a period of creative resurgence for the ... Read Full Description >

  On October 31, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Carolina Coliseum in Columbia, South Carolina, during a period of creative resurgence for the band. Prior to this concert, they had released the studio album "In the Dark" in 1987, which featured the hit single "Touch of Grey" and marked a significant commercial success for the band. By 1985, the Grateful Dead were well into their iconic touring phase, known for their improvisational style and engaging live performances. This show exemplifies their ability to blend traditional rock with eclectic influences, showcased in the setlist that includes covers like "Funiculi Funicula" and Warren Zevon's "Werewolves of London." The audience-shot recording reflects the grassroots connection the band had with its fans and captures the atmosphere of their Halloween shows, which became a beloved tradition within their touring culture.

Grateful Dead Full Concert at Richmond Coliseum, VA

Richmond Coliseum
Richmond, VA, United States

Grateful Dead Full Concert at Richmond Coliseum, VA - Complete Show

Richmond Coliseum
Richmond, VA, United States

• On November 2, 1985, during the era of the Grateful Dead's extensive touring, the band performed at the Richmond Coliseum in Virginia. This period mar... Read Full Description >

  On November 2, 1985, during the era of the Grateful Dead's extensive touring, the band performed at the Richmond Coliseum in Virginia. This period marked a significant phase in their career, right after the release of "In the Dark" in 1987, which was pivotal as it led them to a mainstream resurgence. Although "In the Dark" was released two years after this concert, the band's live shows in 1985 were characterized by their improvisational style and the growing influence of their dedicated fanbase. Notably, this performance captured a unique energy with the band continuing to refine their sound while interacting dynamically with their audience. The era also saw the onset of their increasing use of technologies, both in sound and recording, enhancing the concert experience for fans—a testament to their innovative spirit that defined much of their career.

Grateful Dead Full Concert: 11-8-85 Rochester War Memorial

Rochester War Memorial
Rochester, NY, United States

• On November 8, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Rochester War Memorial, showcasing their unique blend of rock, folk, and improvisational jammi... Read Full Description >

  On November 8, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Rochester War Memorial, showcasing their unique blend of rock, folk, and improvisational jamming. This concert took place shortly after the release of their studio album "In the Dark," which came out in 1987, and featured the hit single "Touch of Grey," marking a significant commercial success for the band. By this time in their career, the Grateful Dead had developed a dedicated fanbase and a rich catalog of live performances, emphasizing their spontaneous and evolving concert experiences. The setlist from this Rochester show reflects their penchant for blending original compositions with covers, highlighting their versatility. The band was known for experimenting with long jams and musical exploration, and this performance is emblematic of their live concert philosophy, which often attracted fans for its unpredictability and communal energy. The 1985 tour also continued to solidify their legacy as one of the quintessential live

Grateful Dead [1080p Restoration] November 8, 1985 - Rochester, NY [2-Cam, SBD: Miller]

Community War Memorial Auditorium
Rochester, NY, United States

• By November 8, 1985, the Grateful Dead had just released their album "In the Dark" earlier that year, which marked a significant phase in their career... Read Full Description >

  By November 8, 1985, the Grateful Dead had just released their album "In the Dark" earlier that year, which marked a significant phase in their career. This album was notable for being their first studio release in nearly a decade, showcasing the band's evolution and reaching new audiences, supported by the hit single "Touch of Grey." The concert recorded in Rochester occurred during a successful touring period, reflecting a resurgence in popularity and broad appeal. The band's live performances were characterized by extended improvisations and a deep connection with their audience, which was a focal point of their reputation. Additionally, this concert took place just a few years before the band began to experience more significant changes due to internal dynamics and the evolving music landscape of the late 1980s. The energy and passion on display in the Rochester show are emblematic of the vibrant live scene that the Grateful Dead cultivated throughout their career.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - Live at Brendan Byrne Arena, East Rutherford

Brendan Byrne Arena
East Rutherford, NJ, United States

• On November 11, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at Brendan Byrne Arena in East Rutherford, NJ, showcasing a vibrant live set that included classics ... Read Full Description >

  On November 11, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at Brendan Byrne Arena in East Rutherford, NJ, showcasing a vibrant live set that included classics like "Scarlet Begonias" and "Fire On The Mountain." This performance came shortly after the release of their studio album, "In the Dark," which debuted in 1987 and marked a significant resurgence in their popularity, even reaching mainstream radio with the hit "Touch of Grey." By 1985, the band had solidified their reputation as a legendary live act known for their improvisational style, distinct musical blends, and elaborate concert experiences. Notably, the band was experiencing a period of renewed energy and audience engagement during this time, which can be reflected in the lively atmosphere of their live performances, making their shows highly coveted among fans. This concert is part of their extensive live archive, highlighting the Dead's unparalleled dedication to capturing the essence of their improvisational music.

Grateful Dead Full Concert - November 20, 1985 at Henry J Kaiser Convention Center, Oakland, CA

Henry J Kaiser Convention Center
Oakland, CA, United States

• On November 20, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Henry J Kaiser Convention Center in Oakland, California, during a particularly prolific phase... Read Full Description >

  On November 20, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Henry J Kaiser Convention Center in Oakland, California, during a particularly prolific phase in their career. Prior to this concert, the band released their album *In the Dark* in 1987, which marked a significant moment in their history as it featured the hit single "Touch of Grey," bringing them a new level of commercial success. By 1985, the Grateful Dead were well entrenched in their live performance reputation, known for their extended improvisational jams and dedicated fanbase. The concert is nicknamed the "Acrobatic Bobby Show" after a memorable performance by Bob Weir, showcasing the band’s playful spirit. This period was characterized by a mix of their iconic early sound and an evolving musical identity that later culminated in *In the Dark*. The live recording exemplifies their distinctive blend of rock, folk, and jazz influences, affirming their legacy as pioneers in the jam band scene.

The Grateful Dead - Throwing Stones / Not Fade Away - Live at Oakland Coliseum

Oakland Colisum
Oakland, CA, USA

• On December 31, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Oakland Coliseum, showcasing their unique blend of rock, folk, blues, and jazz in a live sett... Read Full Description >

  On December 31, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed at the Oakland Coliseum, showcasing their unique blend of rock, folk, blues, and jazz in a live setting that fans cherished. At this point in their career, the band had recently released the studio album "In the Dark" in 1987, which marked a significant commercial resurgence for them, featuring the hit "Touch of Gray." The mid-80s saw the Grateful Dead embracing a more polished production style while still retaining their improvisational roots that defined their live concerts. This performance is noteworthy not only for its energetic rendition of "Throwing Stones" and the classic "Not Fade Away," but also because it captured the band's enduring appeal and their tight-knit community of fans—the Deadheads—who thrived on the spontaneity and transformative experiences that came with each live show.

Grateful Dead [4K Remaster] 1985 12 31 Set 1 [MATRIX/FLAC24]

Bill Graham Civic Auditorium
San Francisco, CA, United States

• On December 31, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed a New Year's Eve concert at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in San Francisco, marking a vibrant poi... Read Full Description >

  On December 31, 1985, the Grateful Dead performed a New Year's Eve concert at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in San Francisco, marking a vibrant point in their extensive career. This performance followed the release of their album "In the Dark," which had come out in 1987. "In the Dark" was a significant milestone for the band, as it featured their first studio hits since the 1970s, including the popular track "Touch of Grey." By the time of this live recording, the Grateful Dead were well-established in the rock scene, celebrated for their improvisational style and loyal fanbase. The late '80s was a period of rejuvenation for the band, with new audiences discovering their music and the growing phenomenon of their live concerts. The unique atmosphere of New Year's shows often brought out special energy, and in 1985, this concert would have showcased their signature blend of rock, blues, and jazz influences, further solidifying their cultural impact.

Grateful Dead - 'Midnight Hour' Live Performance at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum

Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
Oakland, CA, United States

• By December 31, 1985, the Grateful Dead were well-established as a seminal force in the American rock music scene, following a prolific career charact... Read Full Description >

  By December 31, 1985, the Grateful Dead were well-established as a seminal force in the American rock music scene, following a prolific career characterized by innovative live performances. Prior to this live recording at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum, the band released "In the Dark" in 1987, marking a significant comeback with a more polished sound after a series of less commercially successful albums in the early '80s. Notably, "In the Dark" included the hit single "Touch of Grey," which helped introduce the band's music to a broader audience. "Midnight Hour," performed during this New Year’s Eve show, was a classic song that had deep roots in the band’s early performances but saw a revival in the mid-'80s. The spirited rendition captured here exemplifies the band’s commitment to improvisation and ensemble synergy, illustrating their unique ability to blend rock, psychedelic, and blues influences in dynamic live settings.