Beginning August 1, NPR Music will publish a week-long list of stories and podcast episodes exploring the legacy and future of the Grateful Dead fandom. And they want to hear from you!
They want to know: How did you become a fan of the Grateful Dead? Maybe it was a specific album that converted you, or you were transformed by a show you saw. And what would you say to someone who just doesn’t understand the band’s appeal?
Record a voice memo telling them and email it to them at allsongs@npr.org. They’ll share select stories and songs in an upcoming episode in the NPR Music feed. Be sure to tell them your first name and where you’re calling from.
If you prefer, you can also tell them about it with the simple form : GO HERE
All by Hazel Cills at NPR
July 27, 2026
Q: how do you know the Grateful Dead played in your town 2 months ago
A: the deadheads are still in the lot
I saw the Dead in concert once. Only once.
Once is enough.
Not surprised at this comment.
Joe Cools.
One of the best shows was Mother’s Day, May 11, 1969 at Aztec Bowl at SDSC. Grateful Dead, Santana, Canned Heat, Lee Michaels and some local bands. Outside in the sun, all day, $2.50 a ticket. Even better was the Autumn Equinox show at the Del Mar Fairgrounds on September 22nd 1968, noon to dusk. Admission $3.50. Grateful Dead, Buddy Miles Express, Taj Mahal, Quicksilver Messenger Service, Sons of Champlin, Mother Earth, Youngbloods, Ace of Cups. Saw the Dead in December 1970 at the Santa Rosa Fairgrounds on December 16, 1970 with the Paul Butterfield Blues Band and It’s A Beautiful Day. Power went out for about 15 minutes during the Beautiful Day set and David LaFlamme on his violin and the drummer never missed a beat. Incredible.
#respect!