Here at Dead Set Live, we’re more than just a broadcast – we’re a dedication, a sonic journey exclusively through the vibrant, unadulterated world of live Grateful Dead family music. Forget studio trickery; every single note you hear on our airwaves, 24/7, is a testament to the raw energy, the spontaneous improvisation, and the undeniable magic that only happens when these incredible musicians hit the stage. Our “Live Jam” is not just a segment; it’s our entire ethos, where every song played is the live version. It’s about feeling the crowd, hearing the space, and experiencing the music as it truly unfolded.
And speaking of unparalleled live experiences, get ready because tonight, our airwaves are dedicated to the one and only Phil & Friends Radio Show, where we’ll be exclusively playing live Phil & Friends songs! Prepare for deep dives, unexpected jams, and the unparalleled connection that Phil Lesh brought to every performance. While we mourn his passing in October 2024 at the age of 84, his spirit, his bass, and his boundless musical curiosity live on through these incredible live recordings.
As we bask in the glow of Phil’s enduring legacy, let’s also take a moment to reflect on some pivotal moments and exciting news from the Grateful Dead universe:
A Bittersweet Anniversary: Pigpen’s Final Bow
Today, June 17, 2025, marks a poignant anniversary in Grateful Dead history. Fifty-three years ago, on June 17, 1972, the band’s charismatic founding member, Ron “Pigpen” McKernan, played his final show. Pigpen’s bluesy vocals, harmonica prowess, and organ contributions were integral to the Grateful Dead’s early sound, injecting a raw, R&B-infused energy that was uniquely his own. His departure left an undeniable void, but his spirit and musical contributions remain etched in the band’s rich tapestry.
The Evolution of a Legend: From Grateful Dead to The Dead
In the wake of various shifts and personnel changes over the decades, the surviving members of the Grateful Dead famously continued their musical journey under a new banner: “The Dead.” This evolution was a testament to their enduring creative spirit and their commitment to keeping the music alive, even as the lineup transformed.
Looking Ahead: Celebrating 60 Years of The Grateful Dead!
The beat goes on, and we’re incredibly excited about what’s on the horizon! Dead & Company, featuring original Grateful Dead members Bob Weir and Mickey Hart, alongside the incredible talents of John Mayer, Oteil Burbridge, Jeff Chimenti, and Jay Lane, are gearing up for a momentous occasion. They’ll be performing three highly anticipated concerts in San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Park from August 1-3, 2025, to celebrate the Grateful Dead’s monumental 60th anniversary. These shows are sure to be a jubilant celebration of six decades of groundbreaking music and a testament to the enduring power of the Grateful Dead’s legacy.
Delving Deeper: The Wall of Sound and Other Releases!
For the audiophiles and history buffs among us, today is also a significant day! June 17th also marks the release of “Loud and Clear: The Grateful Dead’s Wall of Sound and the Quest for Audio Perfection.” This new book promises to be an in-depth exploration of the band’s legendary, groundbreaking sound system – a true marvel of audio engineering that redefined live concert experiences.
And the hits keep coming! Just a few days ago, on June 13th, 2025, the appropriately titled “Gratest Hits” album was released, featuring beloved studio recordings from classic albums like “Workingman’s Dead” and “American Beauty.” For those who crave the deepest dives, “The Music Never Stopped,” a more concise version of the epic 60-CD “Enjoying the Ride” set, was released on May 30th, proving that the demand for Grateful Dead music, in all its forms, remains as strong as ever. In fact, “The Music Never Stopped” debuted at an impressive No. 19 on the Top Album Sales chart – a clear sign that this music truly does continue to resonate with countless fans.
Honors and Accolades:
The Grateful Dead’s profound impact extends beyond the stage and into the realm of philanthropy. We were thrilled to hear that the band was named the 2025 MusiCares Persons of the Year, a well-deserved recognition of their immense contributions to music and their tireless charitable efforts. And let’s not forget the incredible achievement of Mickey Hart! His “Rhythm Masters: A Mickey Hart Experience” recently secured a well-deserved Sports Emmy – a testament to his diverse artistic talents.
Finally, for those who wanted to immerse themselves in the deep cuts and live gems, the SiriusXM Grateful Dead Channel was made accessible for free to listeners throughout April, offering another avenue to connect with the boundless universe of the Grateful Dead.
So settle in, turn up your speakers, and let the live music wash over you. From Pigpen’s enduring spirit to the upcoming Golden Gate Park celebration, the Grateful Dead’s journey is a never-ending, ever-evolving saga – and here at Dead Set Live, we’re committed to bringing you every thrilling, live-recorded moment of it. And tonight, it’s all about Phil!
