The Grateful Dead's April 7th, 1987 performance at the Brendan Byrne Arena in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is a standout show from their long and storied career. This concert took place during the band's late '80s renaissance, a time when their live performances were in full swing, and the Deadheads' passion for the band was at its peak.

The Venue: Brendan Byrne Arena

The Brendan Byrne Arena, now known as the Izod Center (and later demolished), was one of the key venues for the Grateful Dead in the 1980s. Located in East Rutherford, New Jersey, it had a reputation for great acoustics and a vibrant atmosphere. The venue became a regular stop for the band during their tours, and the fans there were known for their energetic and enthusiastic presence.

Setlist Highlights

April 7th, 1987 was a special night, both for the Dead and their devoted fans. The show featured a typical mix of the Dead's signature blend of rock, folk, blues, jazz, and improvisational jams. The setlist had a number of highlights, starting with an energetic first set that included a scorching “Shakedown Street” to open the show. This song, which was still fresh from the band's 1978 album Shakedown Street, always got the crowd moving, with its funky grooves and tight rhythm section.

Other standout tracks from the first set included “Mississippi Half-Step Uptown Toodeloo,” a fan favorite that often featured extended jams, and “The Music Never Stopped,” a song with a jazzy vibe that allowed the band to showcase their improvisational skills.

Second Set and "Terrapin Station"

The second set featured a number of fan-favorite songs, but it was the epic “Terrapin Station” that really caught the attention of many. This multi-part song, which is a hallmark of the Grateful Dead’s catalog, featured a beautiful and emotional performance with intricate guitar work and soaring vocals. It was one of the highlights of the night, and the crowd responded with an enthusiastic roar of approval.

Another notable moment in the second set was the encore, which often brought fans to their feet. On this night, they closed with "Black Muddy River," a haunting and emotional tune from their 1987 album In the Dark, which represented the band's ongoing evolution.

The Band's Performance

By 1987, the Grateful Dead was in the midst of a creative renaissance, with keyboardist Brent Mydland continuing to add a fresh dynamic to the band's sound. His backing vocals and ability to mix soulful ballads with rock-driven energy was essential to the band's new direction. Guitarist Jerry Garcia was as improvisational as ever, and his fluid guitar solos were a key highlight, weaving through the music with his signature style.

The rhythm section, consisting of bassist Phil Lesh and drummer Mickey Hart, provided a solid foundation that allowed the band to explore new territory within their jams. Drummer Bill Kreutzmann added his signature groove to the beats, making the band's rhythm section a driving force in their live shows.

A Memorable Night

The Grateful Dead's April 7th, 1987 performance at the Brendan Byrne Arena is often remembered for its exceptional energy, inspired performances, and the communal connection between the band and their audience. Fans recall the night as one of the great performances during the band's late '80s era, a time when they were still hitting new heights both musically and in their relationship with their fanbase.

This show remains a significant part of the Grateful Dead's legacy, showcasing their ability to captivate and mesmerize their audience with their unique blend of music, improvisation, and soul. For those who were lucky enough to be there, it was a night they would not soon forget.