Grateful Dead - Live at Oakland-Alameda County Stadium (Oakland Coliseum Stadium), May 27, 1989 - "In Concert Against AIDS"

The May 27, 1989 performance at Oakland-Alameda County Stadium (commonly known as the Oakland Coliseum Stadium) was a landmark event for the Grateful Dead, and it remains a significant moment in both the band’s history and in the broader history of AIDS activism. This concert, part of the In Concert Against AIDS benefit event, was held to raise awareness and funds for the AIDS crisis, which was deeply affecting the music world and many of the Dead’s fans and peers. It was a night that combined incredible music with a powerful social message.

The Event: "In Concert Against AIDS"

The concert was organized to raise money for AIDS research and to spread awareness about the ongoing epidemic that had been devastating the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in the music world. By 1989, the AIDS crisis had claimed the lives of many musicians and public figures, including notable artists from the rock and pop scenes. The event featured not only the Grateful Dead but also an eclectic and impressive roster of artists, each contributing their musical talents to the cause.

The night was headlined by the Grateful Dead, but also featured performances from Tower of Power, Joe Satriani, Los Lobos, John Fogerty, and Tracy Chapman—a diverse lineup that reflected the inclusive nature of the event. The blend of genres—from jazz and rock to blues and folk—created a musical journey that underscored the gravity of the cause and the diversity of those who were affected by AIDS.

The Grateful Dead’s Role in the Concert

For the Grateful Dead, the May 27, 1989 show was a moment of social responsibility, bringing their signature blend of improvisation, rock, and community spirit to the event. The band had long been associated with causes of social change, and their presence at such a crucial event in the fight against AIDS was a testament to their commitment to activism.

The Dead's performance, set against the backdrop of the larger event, had the ability to uplift and bring awareness in a way only they could. By this time, the band had already entered a new era of their musical journey in the late 1980s, following a period of resurgence in the mid-'80s, but they were still performing with their signature blend of spontaneity and joyful intensity.

The Setlist and Performance

The Grateful Dead's set during the In Concert Against AIDS event was filled with the band’s most beloved tracks, showcasing their classic songs while offering room for their renowned improvisational jams. The band’s performance was filled with energy, combining the joy of their live shows with the poignancy of the cause they were supporting.

Though the exact setlist for this specific show is difficult to pin down, their typical set for this period might have included:

• “Iko Iko”: A fun and high-energy song, perfect for getting the crowd moving. The Dead often used this song to get the audience in a celebratory mood, a reminder of how music could uplift spirits in times of struggle.

• “Touch of Grey”: At this point, “Touch of Grey” had become the band’s biggest hit, and its infectious message of survival ("I will survive!") made it a powerful anthem for the event’s theme of hope and resilience.

• “Not Fade Away”: A cover of the Buddy Holly classic that the Dead frequently included in their shows, “Not Fade Away” was a crowd-pleasing favorite and fit perfectly with the energy of the event.

• “Sugar Magnolia”: A quintessential Grateful Dead song, “Sugar Magnolia” was always a lively, joyous closer, and its inclusion was a reminder of the beauty of life, even in the face of adversity.

The Supporting Acts: A Musical Melting Pot

What made the event even more special was the diverse mix of artists who shared the stage with the Grateful Dead, each adding their own flavor to the night and contributing to the spirit of solidarity against the AIDS epidemic.

Tower of Power

The horn-driven, funk band Tower of Power brought their signature sound to the stage. Known for their tight rhythm section and big brass sound, Tower of Power infused the night with their infectious funk, bringing a high-energy groove to the stadium.

Joe Satriani

Guitar virtuoso Joe Satriani also performed, bringing his instrumental rock guitar mastery to the event. Satriani, known for his technical prowess and instrumental music, brought a different, more rock-oriented sound to the stage, providing an exciting contrast to the other acts.

Los Lobos

The Mexican-American rock band Los Lobos were also part of the event. Known for their unique fusion of rock, Tex-Mex, and folk influences, Los Lobos provided a blend of rich, cultural sounds that were as eclectic as the event itself. Their performance added depth and flavor, making the night feel like a true celebration of diverse music and culture.

John Fogerty

John Fogerty, the former frontman of Creedence Clearwater Revival, brought his swampy, rootsy rock sound to the stage. His iconic hits like “Bad Moon Rising” and “Fortunate Son” resonated with the crowd, evoking the spirit of protest and social change. Fogerty’s performance was a powerful addition to the event’s political and social themes.

Tracy Chapman

Folk singer Tracy Chapman brought her soulful, emotional acoustic sound to the stage. Known for her hits like “Fast Car” and “Talkin' 'bout a Revolution,” Chapman’s songs about social justice and personal struggle were a poignant reminder of the cause they were there to support. Her simple but powerful performances resonated deeply with the audience.

A Night of Solidarity and Music

The Grateful Dead’s May 27, 1989, performance at Oakland-Alameda County Stadium was more than just a concert. It was a gathering of people from all walks of life, coming together to raise awareness for a cause that was deeply affecting their community. The combination of incredible music and a shared sense of purpose made the night something truly special.

The collaboration between such diverse artists—from the Grateful Dead’s improvisational rock to Tracy Chapman’s folk soul—created a musical melting pot that was both exhilarating and deeply meaningful. The night showcased the power of music to unite people in the face of adversity, and it was an important chapter in the larger fight against the AIDS epidemic.

This performance remains a powerful reminder of the Grateful Dead’s long-standing commitment to activism, their connection with their audience, and the role of live music in bringing about social change. It was a night where both music and activism came together, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved.