Deadheads are TOXIC

[@hostesscupcakes8130]

So, i have a dead story. It was the early 90s and i was a sophomore in high school. The Grateful Dead were coming to town and i really wanted to go, it was gonna be my first concert and i really liked the music. My mom bought me tickets and a new dead t-shirt to wear to the show as a present. I was really excited and my mom drove me out to see them. Out in the parking lot, tons of people walking around, vans selling food and shirts and jewelry, it was really amazing. I was looking around, and this group of people came up and just started making fun of me and my new grateful Dead shirt, just calling me names and saying i know nothing about the dead. As a 16 year old, it was really discouraging and ruined my experience. Then, an old couple came up and started giving them trouble and calling them assholes and to leave me alone. When the group left, the old guy offered to trade shirts with me, probably seeing that i was upset about it, and I did. My mom was pissed when she picked me up, but it was a good memory that i am thankful for and i still have the shirt today. Yeah, some deadheads are toxic and assholes, but others are pretty good. My mom would say that no matter where you go in life, there will always be assholes.

[@Oldcrow77]

I had been seeing the dead since 77 on Oklahoma Move to LA for work. My Buddy and I worked in the restaurant biz. We where in the lot at a So Cal show. Looking for doses. This guy started calling me the worst thing possible “Narc” I cussed him out and said some of us actually have jobs that require you to cut your hair ! Kid came up on his skateboard and asked how many you want. He disappeared in the crown and was back in a flash. I had been on the bus for over a decade at that point. I could understand the assholes assumption. But he was still an asshole

[@sirfizz6518]

We all have part of us that's an asshole. Hopefully we try not to shove it in everyone's face.

[@mr.niceguy1498]

Same thing happened to me in the mid 1980’s. It was always,”your not a real deadhead. What the hell does that really mean?

[@rocpile2517]

A lot of those people that came along in the nineties were not dead heads they were troublemakers looking for drugs And they completely ruined the scene

[@worngimimajosplaynholmes6907]

@@rocpile2517 right , so heaven forbid we had a bad attitude towards new comers.

[@jamescrafford7127]

I think the 'headier than thou' thing comes from a lack of otherwise having a strong personal identity. I think most people who are like this are probably a bit lost / don't have a whole lot going for them outside of the scene. The dead and its scene is a source of a lot of their strength and purpose or, at the very least, filled some kind of personal void (if it genuinely helps them thats great). When it becomes part of identity it becomes part of ego, and many many people become quite defensive / imposing when it comes to their ego. The gate keepers are the worst and in opposing spirit to what the music is all about. - a big fan

[@spudboyeyesonu5731]

Headier than thou 😂 The perfect description

[@ChristianRaymondFilms]

Wow great job writing that, it’s the same exact thing as skateboarding / snowboard / surfing industry as well.

[@Biteyourownteeth]

I worked with the Dead in the 90s on tour as an all-around tech. I spent a lot of time on stage setting up/breaking down the guys gear. Mr. Garcia's main focus at that point was keeping the entire team employed even though he was not feeling very well and was not enjoying the burden of protecting his privacy at all times. It was a rather lonely existence with extreme segregation from other people at times. He didn't need the money or enjoy touring but felt he was responsible for all the families that relied on the Dead for their jobs. He was very concerned with the well being of the fans as there were a lot of casualties, dysfunctionality, legal liability and security concerns. He never pigeon holed the deadheads as any one kind of person and was proud that the music created affinity with a vast cross section of people from all walks of life all around the world. He was a basic good guy, very bright, who liked drinking coffee and practicing guitar, who was at that stage doing his job as part of a vast profitable company that he never planned to create. He made sure that the crew was taken care of with simple things like good pay, good healthy food and we felt appreciated. In hindsight I am sure many of us wish he had gotten off the road and taken care of himself. But it was juggernaut that developed massive momentum and the money was huge. I vividly remember Bill Graham backstage with a huge smile on his face sneaking out of the venue after the shows with few grocery bags stuffed full to the brim with merch cash. Money like that night after night is hard to pass up. Modern day pirates for sure. Thanks for the awesome music Davvy.

[@Captain_Brian]

Keeping the monster eating was a huge requirement. Remember when they had to pre spend the tour guarantees

[@BreadLobby]

If I lived when Jerry was alive and I met him, I would ask him who the fuck he is. That'd probably make him feel nice 😂

[@bigmike5785]

Yeah....I've read books about jerry too.

[@samiracle956]

This remind me of touch of grey specifically the verse about the dog not being fed in years. It’s like them sayin “hey here’s a pop hit just to keep the machine going”

[@uncledeadhead3674]

really, so the fact bill graham dies in early 1991, and wasnt even on tour with the band in 1990, but you saw him in the 90's? come on. the stories are ridiculous

[@rayanrahbari5619]

All I wanna say is that the first time I saw Bob Weir and Wolf Bros, we all hugged and all I could feel was love for every being in my life. THAT to me is thee root of it all.

[@deadreckoning6288]

Spot on.

[@matthewatwood8641]

I'm currently homeless. Started busking after the pandemic hit. I play mostly Grateful Dead. There've been many times that I pulled myself out of a funk by reminding myself that Jerry probably had plenty of moments in the eighties & nineties when he would've loved nothing better than to go back to living in his car & surviving on peaches with Robert Hunter, playing coffee houses & stuff. I'm a lifer. Signed on for the full tour, baby💀

[@BreadLobby]

Fuck yeah man! Play I need a miracle at shows n shit. That will get you free shows and probably some free acid and grilled cheese. Come on homeless man, you need a band? Let's play the blues on the streets together dawg

[@jwright4686]

I don't necessarily automatically tip buskers, but if you play the Dead, you have my money!

[@matthewatwood8641]

That's music to my ears 😁

[@BreadLobby]

@@matthewatwood8641 haha if you come up to Portland Oregon comment on one of my two vids I got posted, we can work out some jams fo sho. Portland is a good ass place to homeless in the summer. I was living under Hawthorne for two years and it was relatively alright

[@denverguitarhero]

Im a busker too! Good on ya. I play dead songs like jack straw, warf rat, and he's gone

[@Ethan-gy2xj]

U don't even need a resume to convince people ur a "deadhead". If u know another song other than Casey Jones and u like it...congrats ur a deadhead.

[@erikortlieb7282]

Ripple brings much of the essence of the dead front and center, “if I knew the way, I would take you home”. Home in this sense is whatever universal energy deadheads and the band identify as “the magic” of the GD. The band can’t take us home, they’re just as confused and frustrated as we are, you will have to walk the road alone. They aren’t gods, they’re imperfect humans who are reaching for the same things the OG heads were/are reaching for.

[@jonasmr9549]

Great video and discussion about dead culture. I appreciate the perspective on different generations getting into the music, and how future generations will have their own story with the music, but ultimately keep the flame alive. Its built to last! Make more content like this!

[@zummo61]

Great video. I agree 100%. I am 61 and started seeing the Dead in 74 and hope to keep seeing this music celebrated for generations in all its forms. Keep it up dude. I support you 100%, even if i keep bugging you about that Love in the Afternoon intro. 😂

[@Captain_Brian]

Davvvy laying it out! The music never had constraints and it will continue to evolve. If heads aren’t happy… go listen to your maxell 90’s. All the new ensembles and addition of “couch tours” via online stream & even the app relisten are all part of the growth. Everyone needs to, yes listen to your favorite years, but also be thankful for what ya still get! Keep truckin brothers & sisters!! (PSA. I have no connection to anything. Just point out the current options for access)

[@hilltopmel9150]

As a good friend pointed out, It’s cultural suicide to push away young heads. I was on tour as a teenager in the early 90’s and still go to shows and dance my ass off. I’m so excited when I see young people digging the music. We gotta keep it alive in the youth or it will die with us old heads.

[@herbythechef7624]

Yeah people gotta be kind to new heads. The headier than thou additude gives the culture a bad name

[@donaldemeyer]

Bay Area born, this was the music of our youth, for free in the park. You pretty much nailed it... I dig what you're doing.

[@deadreckoning6288]

Dude, your hilarious. You got the gist of it for sure. Old head here, seen all of what your talking about. For me it has always been about family, the tribe, coming home & the music is home. Be kind, do no harm. Being at a show was always the one place where I felt accepted to be my authentic self. That is rare in mainstream human society. Being at a Dead show was the greatest experience this old boy has ever been blessed with. NFA ⚘💀☇

[@michaelderose397]

I love the notion of "owing something to the song." I always felt that way about lots and lots of songs from Dylan, Garcia/Hunter, Nanci Griffith and for some reason the Moody Blues too. I'll use that line now. I owe a lot to those songs.

[@keithsytsma]

Stumbled across this in my home feed. So glad it was. I subscribed to your channel and gave this a thumbs up. I am 50 years old and got turned on to the Grateful Dead in 1985. I got into trading tapes and have a great collection. So refreshing to hear the message we can agree to disagree with out getting all mad about it. Today communication at times seems to be a lost art and people forget being cool to others is cool. Look forward to enjoying this channel. Thanks again Davvy!

[@colinpanarra8007]

Awesome video man! I connected with the Dead more after my father passed and we played He's Gone at his service. People like you helping share content and positivity is what this is all about and learning through your videos connects me not only with the music I love but my own special memories with my own Dad.

[@WEREWOLFCaT_STORIES]

“One way or another, this darkness has got to give” new speedway boogie is my melodic mantra to bring me back. The kicker - I hear it in my head as your voice.. as first time I heard it was on your stream with that great reverb vocal. ❤ cheers brother.

[@dannydonnelly8345]

I'm 67, listening since I was 15. My favorite thing to see at a Dead show is kids and families.

[@thebepis712]

Im relatively new to the dead. I never had a chance to see Jerry play, just listened to the live albums. Now that im am adult and can afford tickets have seen dead and co a few times and it was an incredible experience. The music, the crowd everything was amazing. I never cared much for john mayers solo stuff myself but i love the energy he brings to the show. I don’t care how many comments I read of a bitter person saying if you didn’t see Jerry you aren’t a fan. I’m going to enjoy this version of the dead and will probably enjoy future iterations.

[@jackreeves2499]

loved the video! im 17 rn in high school and il admit Mayer brought me to this music. if dead and co mission was to spread the music as much as humanly possible it worked I think. cause now I listen a ton of old dead shows, phish, goose, billy strings, allman brothers, and all that and now it’s all I listen too and it’s a lot of what I play when I play guitar. i completely understand why someone would not does not like Mayer but he definitely brought people to the music. I mean now I go to so many shows each tour. I love your channel cause I love learning about the stuff I wasn’t alive for. and for that I thank you for.

[@Belbivdevoe]

I'm sure there is a girl involved in this Johnny Salami love story

[@peterjarrattmusic]

I have always felt like I have not earned my keep being a dead fan. Although I personally have never felt directly intimidated by more experienced or knowledgeable fans... I definitely have an almost subconscious guilt about not having put in enough time and effort studying the music or experiencing the culture. Its a weird thing to explain. Basically, I think with other musical acts.... Lets say the Stones and the Beatles.... someone could easily consider themselves a major fan even if they only had a couple albums that they loved. But with the Dead, it almost feels like you need to know every single song name, all the best live bootlegs, need three concert tees and 50 stamps on your passport proving that you left the Universe and understand. lol I do, however, realize that this is largely just my own perspective.

[@Oldcrow77]

You need not feel that way. You know what’s in your heart and head. Do not feel the need to legitimize your love of the music and all it represents. It’s great you want to submerge yourself in it though. Play the tapes, embrace the music. Be kind. Ain’t no time to hate. I find so many things that help guide my days in the lyrics. Don’t feel you need to compare your Dead experience to anyone else’s journey. “ There is a road, no simple highway Between the dawn and the dark of night And if you go, no one may follow That path is for your steps alone”

[@namelia4439]

I actually understand what you’re saying…I felt that way at the very beginning and even for a few years after that. But at the end of the day, it’s just about the music and the joy and the freedom and the dancing and the good people there! If anyone says or does something that makes you feel the way you described, just wish them a lovely day and move on…you’ll find other people to hang and dance w that will just love that you’re there…and you’ll love them, too and all will be well, friend!!!!

[@sirfizz6518]

I pretty much feel the same. Just looking at this comment section, it easily affirms the impression I've had for some time, that for Heads it's more than just being a fan on the general sense. I'm a lifelong musician who remains a stalwart for always respecting the greats. What the Dead did is absolutely staggering. For such a famous and successful band, the true scope of their impact is massively underrated at large. But I say that for dedicated musicians, at least those who can see the value of studying those who've paved the way, the Dead are none to sleep on. If we spend some time appreciating the breadth of their catalog, there's so much to learn from and connect with for anyone open to it. Dead Heads, however, have something more. If you really get into it with someone who lovingly calls themselves that, you'll surely encounter some profoundly sentimental stories about how vitally the Dead effected their life. For them there's such a deep, personal...dare I say intimate...connection these Heads feel with the band, they music, and the massive family that arose globally. Me, i don't have that sense, not in my own life. Sure some interesting stories, but nothing prophetic. I'm just a musician who loves and respects what that unlikely bunch of musicians created and left in their wake, and what we can all learn. Also I do love the tunes. So I'm a fan. Dead Heads are Dead Heads. In my experience they've never made feel excluded, in fact they were very welcoming. But it's about the deep personal thing. That's why i consider myself not a Dead Head... just a fan. A lover of the music and the people.

[@sirfizz6518]

@@Oldcrow77 yoooo i read your comment after leaving mine and it's wild, i was very close to ending my comment with quoting the same lyrics.

[@sambac2053]

I have a very different reflection for you. I’ve been listening to the band since the late sixties, I love the music , and respect their attitudes as artists- drawing from a broad spectrum of influences, being willing to take chances and experiment. , Being really predent in the moment Caring about good vibes and community. But as there started to be more and more heads who built their whole identities around the Dead, obsessining on endless trivial details, every setlist for every show. Never talking about anything else, never listening to other music - not even realizing the Dead played lot’s of songs by otjer artists they liked , etc etc etc, the whole thing got more and more watered down , more and more predictable . And since the band channeled the audience vibe, for the improvs, thosr got less and less adventurous . By the last phase in the 90s the band often seemed bored. I think the best thing to do is enjoy the music, forget all the superficial trappings, especially if they make you judge yourself That’s what the band was trying to do , make people forget their worries and enjoy the music , in the moment .

[@todd8038]

As a gen z head(zoomer) i entered the scene online seeing people talking shit about anyone, it didnt make sense. As ive grown into the scene the past two years I respect each player of all jam bands. Its good to see homies show to show, especially fellow students who love the music. Personally i mix the drugs but not much because i feel as if some “drugs” can really enhance your senses.

[@leeanians-mueller]

Great stuff. I always try to learn one thing per day - you passed on three things I did not know. I am good for two days

[@romanborysiuk5910]

Really dig what you are doing. You are a great teacher- I've learned a lot from you. Rock on my brother. Thank you.

[@Charlieboy2680]

Yeah I've found alot of narcissism with Dead Fans. For me it's all about the music and it being a lifestyle of love,compassion and kindness. Preach brother 🌹⚡️

[@robertbeckman2054]

I was 16 in 1989, when Touch of Grey and Hell in a Bucket were getting AirPlay. I had no idea that these guys had a dozen or so albums from the 60’s and 70’s. I found some tunes they played that I liked, but I put the GD on the shelf for two decades. It reignited for me when I started listening to whole shows on KZbin. Songs I had never heard from the albums, long succulent jams (cat sunshine/I know you rider, terrapin station, “don’t murder me” song, turn on your love light, etc, etc. Zi also love the short-lived Brent Midland era the best. What a unique, raspy, high tenor, and strong voice he had.

[@Oldcrow77]

Your comments are spot on. First show 10/11/77 then I moved to socal for work in 86. Felt like an alien in L.A. Went to the last “Real” Dead on the Beach shows in Ventura and reconnected with “Family” By 90 I was living in the hills of Mendocino doing respectable work. Became friends with Steve Marcus when he married one of our close tour sisters. Met my future wife at Friends JGB birthday Run after party in San Diego. We got married in Hawaii with Roy Rogers and Peter Rowan as our wedding guest and Peter played our late night party. At the pre wedding reception my sound guy put on “keeper of the Key” David Nelson Bands first CD. Imagine standing there with Peter “Panama”Rowan and hearing David Nelson. I then got to work with DNB for a magical, crazy 20 years. Tour/production managing and giging them in Mendocino and Hawaii every year for over a decade. I’m not saying this to name drop. But to underline the fact that I have had a incredible life and everything I have is because of The “Good ole Grateful Dead” I can’t imagine it any other way and couldn’t have planned for such a wonderful life. People that weren’t fortunate enough to experience the live X Factor of when the crowd would push and the Band pushed back harnessing the energy of the moment and taking it into the ether will not understand. But I know many of you do. First law of thermodynamics is that energy cannot be destroyed or created only Re-focused. And some nights collectively we were smashing atoms. Thank you Jerry for all you gave us!

[@sethstine4698]

10/11/77 first show? What a first show!!!! Dick Latvala is quoted saying that 10/11 is one of the few examples of "primal dead". Great Help/Slip/Franklin's, Let it Grow, and the Dancin > Dire is legendary. I'm jealous.

[@mattneapolitano7996]

Awesome job not name dropping! I'm inspired for sure. So you were pals w SMarcus but not Jerry. That sucks.

[@Oldcrow77]

@@mattneapolitano7996 Not pal’s exactly. He was married to our clan and was very gracious to us because of it. Steve is a very nice guy. Only had a few very brief with Jerry and they where very brief, “like in the same space at the same time, but didn’t feel at all at ease with bothering him. Felt more like giving him space. Yes I have lived a very cool rock n roll fantasy life. Having Van Halen’s mgr take my rolling papers from me, only to twist one for his guys when we were in there dressing room and when they where opening for sabbath on their first album tour in like ‘78 Other great forest Gump type rock n roll situations So name dropping or story telling, call it what you want. Of course I have the thank you note from Bill Walton and his wife and a pic of all of us together at vegas when we gave the seats all the 3 days And saved them from the sea of fans bugging him. Not a day goes by that I don’t think how blessed I’ve been. Like I said before, I owe it all to the Grateful Dead and rock n roll in general.

[@pookiegamer9327]

My dad’s been trying to learn some dead songs on guitar and thanks to your guitar videos I get to play the dead with my dad Thank you Davy Great video, keep up the great work

[@sugaree71]

Deadhead for more than 51 years. It has always been exclusively about the music for me and remains so. Guess I am OG ;) At last show in Chicago, days after presumed “touchheads” trashed Deer Creek, if I recall correctly. Saw only “the Dead,” Dark Star Orchestra as well as Dead and Company since. Had not even heard of John Mayer until after Fare Thee Well. Turned on my 28 year old, also a guitar player, at Wrigley last June. Music, especially Box of Rain, sustained me as I took care of my dad in his final year in this world. He was also a musician, who played the trumpet in 3 Seattle area bands during his retirement and was well on his way to the bus. My only regret: not being able to take him to a live show. Relevant anecdote: searched for a grief therapist after losing him in 2014. Found someone I clicked with until I discovered that he was only 32 at that time. Then I learned that he was a deadhead … and a guitar player. Trusted him as a result and never regretted it. The music will live forever!! Thanks for doing your part.💀⚡️🌹#NFA

[@Treebeard1992]

I just found this channel, loved your crazy fingers tutorial and also loved your jokes and goofy antics. Really enjoyed your commentary on this video as well! Keep it up!

[@GratefulGrove]

Excellent take and the points you bring up all ring true. Video editing is on point too, as always.

[@michaelcardamone3745]

The longer I listened to this video the more I dig your talking. You’re real

[@krissantos5170]

12:41 "I assume Bob wants to die on stage"... 🤣 ... I'm Dead 💀

[@Ilovemusic793]

Yes he said he wanted that in an interview in the mid 1980s

[@willdenham]

When I was first encountering Deadheads, in the flesh, the condescending know-it-alls scared me. They also seemed out of step with the vibe.

[@danielosullivan3110]

The shit was all over when Brent passed!!❤️🥂🚬

[@dannydonnelly8345]

All I can say is NRPS. New Riders were incredible, we referred to them as Grateful Deads little brothers.

[@null_l33t]

"I traded a Jerry Garcia Tshirt for a Bob Weir." -- that bro with the "stolen face"

[@m.c.oldhead8585]

My first concert was 87 Capital Centre. End of summer tour. Incredible!! I'd catch them every year thru 95 where ever i may be.. Im with ya.

[@craigfishburn5206]

Dude says "never tried acid" Rogan says "want to try some now?" Lmao😅😅😅❤❤❤❤

[@johnobrien5486]

That’s what it’s all about man! Been playing with a gd/jgb cover band for about a year and I’d say I also have a complicated relationship with preforming the guitar solo as well/overall performance.

[@RobertBardos]

Great talk Davvy. Sending love bro

[@johnnycash2254]

I recall the old heads calling the newer heads at shows “touches.” I saw 30+ shows over a 15 year span and was really only interested in the music - though the parking lot scene was fun.

[@JimVarneyHaHa]

Its refreshing to hear someone say this is a cult. I have had that private belief for years.

[@BST501]

I am 52 years old and I have been a Lover of the music and a Dead Head since 1983. I understand the division and dilemma but I don't even like talking about who's who and what's what. How many shows have you seen blah, blah, blah! I loved the Grateful Dead then and understand them and Love them even more now! Thank you Boys for the music and may it never fade away.

[@kevinmaddog3064]

Yeah Hunter wrote the lyrics but Jerry brought the words to life!

[@MichaelDeFillippo8889]

very well said Davvy.. I agree the bottom line is just to be kind to everyone even if they like dead and co lol. like u said it's all about the MUSIC. inclusion, not exclusion.

[@kerryc.7438]

I just picked up a bluegrass book on Amazon, just flipping through the pages I can’t believe how many tunes that are in there the dead covered and JGB , it’s unreal

[@shovedhead]

Jerry especially loved the American songbook, no doubt. I marvel when I hear his insertion of banjo riffs into unlikely places.

[@deadbeefmonster]

Thanks for posting this. It exists in other band communities, too, such as Phish where folks fight about fandom like there are tiers. I appreciate your POV of just focus on the music and the love, we're all in this together and all are just trying to live while we can :) Why not choose kindness?

[@JerryToneStore]

This is incredible dude. All the love

[@tommuir4313]

Thanks for this. I can't remember anything. Just love the music.

[@zackmarkham6726]

I've shared a lot of these same thoughts, man. It ain't about us, it's about the music. Fuck the headier than thou bullshit. Keep on doing you, dude. I appreciate it. 🙏

[@justin10054]

I was never a fan of John Mayer (nothing against him, just not my style), but I had the opportunity to see Dead & Co. for free back in 2021 and there is no way I was going to turn that down. I was hesitant going in just because John was filling in for Jerry and, you know, he's not Jerry. But at some point during the show, I realized that he wasn't trying to be Jerry. He was just playing Grateful Dead music in his own way and he was clearly having a good time doing it. And literally every single person in the audience was having a great time. That was when I got it. I mean, I'm still not gonna go out and buy some John Mayer records, but I count myself a fan of Dead & Co. Also, the Help on the Way>Slipknot!>Franklin's Tower that night was the single best Grateful Dead experience of my life.

[@erikotema]

Help Slip Frank DeadCo 🙏🙌👊

[@stephentmarksberry4484]

I met Jerry as he was sitting on the edge of a stage at a ice skating rink IN Providence RI. I asked him if I could sit behind the amps. he said yes and I climbed up to the stage and Jerry looked at Ramrod and let him know he I was all good with me coming up to the amps. I go around an amp and I find Bear, dropping liquid acid on the back of people’s hands then licking it off. I held out my hand and he put 4 drops on it and I licked it off. Gota say it was fantastic . I asked him if he would hook me up with his local dealer and he gave me the information. He wanted to build the wall of sound that was where the money went . I asked him why no one blinked an eye with me being there and he said it was because I was home. I met my wife at a show . He tried to take care of the family but the whole world. If you don’it we are all world living in Jerry’s world. Everyone in the family has been kind and thoughtful. Thanks my sisters and brothers 🖖🏽

[@ryanriley746]

Really incredible video, Davvy. Thanks for your hard work!!

[@ryanmattingly6292]

Liquid cardboard soaked doses at the last rainbow gathering I had... The freaking interstate tie-dyed on the way home

[@rcw08]

So I am totally new to the Grateful Dead scene and I really appreciate the lex I love the soulfulness I love everything about it and I listen to various jam bands on Pandora while I'm driving my 18 Wheeler so thank you thank you I've discovered something that has already been in front of my face for a long time.

[@drewriley1889]

I tried to watch this but you're lack of knowledge of their history is astounding. If you're going to say things , know their history

[@elijahwilson1422]

I've met Jimmy Tebeau of The Schwag and he was bass player for JGB for two years under Melvin Seals.

[@samboyd5951]

Davvy, you rock from the toes on up dude and you know it!! Don't take it the wrong way. Sadly, there are some strange people out there who like the taste of puke in their mouths. We are all weirdos. Me and many others appreciate you sharing your weirdness every week. (Expanding on the idea. Somewhere out there is someone who loves the smell of a skunk. Like if something is rotten they like it. Our tastes vary so much. Our kindness should not). I couldn't have said it better myself- Oh wait, I just did. Muchas Gracias Davvy. Your life is all your my dude!

[@justgivenofox9543]

My Dad was at Duke when they performed there in 1978. How shocked would you be if I told you politicians in office today were at Duke just across the hall tripping the same acid, Mr. Natural. He and his friends were extremely huge Dead fan since he was in high school back in the early 70’s. Crazy how much influence this band had and on how many people

[@deadreckoning6288]

We are everywhere 💀 ;)

[@aaronbrooks7132]

Funny you show Vegas, that's where I found myself in the 90s. going through the motions.

[@TallGuitarBoy]

Bro, this is so spot on. The music is what matters. Don't be a sick is our mantra!😂

[@markolukin4331]

I really appreciate the lessons you give on the Dead. I have been a Deadhead since the mid 80"s. I have also been playing guitar and writing for 30 years. I always wanted to be in a band that plays all Dead, and recently I got the chance. I figured no problem, I'll start learning the songs and bam! Well start playing live. Stop! I never realized how complex and different their songs are, even though I've been a huge Head forever. I was learning by eat but what I was coming up with was missing a lot of the nuances in their songs. When I found you on utube, I instantly was able to pick up on your teaching. In most cases after 1 viewing. Just want to thank you. After the 1st week I went to rehearsal and the guys were blown away. My soloing was no issue but I showed up playing the songs the way they actually sound. Forever grateful brother.

[@metavinci427]

There are toxic purist trolls in every vertical subcategory. It’s part of free speech. As adults most can ignore those who troll us.

[@johnrobinson7036]

Davvy, found your channel within the past couple weeks and really enjoy it. I’m 66 and started playing the guitar two years ago. It’s a blast and I’m all over the board with it: blues, country, rock, funk, jazz, folk. The Dead check all the boxes and do it so well. Thanks for the great lessons among other things. You seem to be in a good place right now and that’s good. Subbed. P.s. Wondering if there is a Toby. Peace.

[@palakabrad]

Dig your stuff and way, Davvy. I need to sign up for your Golden Road lesson. Keep it up, bro! Aloha🤙

[@markolukin4331]

In regards to this video, I am a TouchPad but only because I wasn't born years earlier. I fell in love with the music and the community too. Huge part of my life, the partying is fine too. Night 3 Trey stepped up in Chicago but he did not unleash the way Mayer has.

[@asudbury817]

Disagree with this whole concept of "Grateful Dead Family" . Used to think this and went to 30+ shows per year thinking this scene was my salvation and where I belonged. It's a lie- it's mostly a place for drug addicts and alcoholics to get their fix in and not feel bad about it. A good excuse to hide your problems. The people you meet and befriend at shows will never be there for you when you need them the most. The "scene" sucks away your money and leaves you with very little. Bobby and music corporations just cashing in - sad to see its all just become a money grab! Get your relationships right with your own family! They're only ones with capacity to love and treat you as family.

[@aldonapetrano4663]

Bill Graham summed up The Grateful Dead spot on, he said: "They're not the best at what they do, They're the ONLY ONES who do what they do".

[@Raelven]

Summer tour 1980 and then some. Wasn't toxic. Unless you chose to hang with the toxic, who are avoidable and not limited to Dead shows or "culture". Like everything, the more people who find it, the faster it goes pffft. 🤷

[@TimHMCO]

Brother you just summed up every feel i've ever had about our family. ❤

[@chrismattingly9393]

The only real scene at a show happened between the time when the house lights went down prior to the first set until they came back up after the encore. Every other scene around that time was secondary and was either mild "icing on the cake", or some form of distraction.

[@evancosta]

Very well said, I really enjoy the current DSO lineup with Jeff Mattson and I also really appreciate Dead & Co. (I’ve been to many shows and will be there this summer for the final tour). I’m excited to see what project Bobby will continue with next, his shows with the Wolf Bros this past fall were amazing. It’s like you said, it’s up to us to carry the music on, to steward it into the future for the next generation of fans. And your 100% right about that we shouldn’t hate on new fans for how they come to enjoy the music.

[@jonathanlund590]

I'm seeing DSO tomorrow night which is Friday at the Warfield in S.F I prefer them over the other groups that are exclusive to the band, well them and jrad are equally good. Just the fact that a tribute band can sell out that venue for both nights is quite impressive

[@evancosta]

@@jonathanlund590 I would say their ability to recreate the experience of an original GD show, along with the occasional use of original gear, paired with their ability to play/sing definitely helps them to fill out venues. I hope the Warfield show is dope! At the end of the day it always comes down to what we like to hear, whether that be the music as it was written/performed or the music played in newer ways and or interpretations. I wish DSO was a bit closer to home on their current tour, cause I would definitely love to see them again (I definitely will). In the meantime, I’ve been checking out some of the local projects that are my area in the NE, lots of good ones here with interesting takes on the music.

[@jonathanlund590]

@@evancosta what's kinda funny is with the dead we were blessed with Cali shows all the time like between tours and 4 Nye shows but now DSO and jrad which I consider the 2 best tribute bands for both musicianship and sound quality,both are based on the east coast and before covid there were always one or the other playing at Brooklyn bowl or capital theater.but since I only started hitting dead shows in 87 so my first DSO show was at the actual Filmore here in San Francisco and by the second set I had a pretty good idea what a 70 Filmore show felt like

[@mikesmusicden]

I've been following the Dead since the early 80s and have been to over 100 shows. The crowd was a lot more balanced and tolerant back in the day. There were the unwashed hippies (both real and wannanbes), but there were also construction workers just getting off building sites and even stockbrokers and lawyers in Armani suits - all there to see the band. There was no real political confrontations, a liberal hippie would be jammin' to Franklin's Tower right along side a day trader in a pinstripe suit. Everyone was there to share a common connection, which was their love of the band and its music. Those days are gone forever. Try wearing a Trump shirt to a Dead and Friends show and see if they even let you in the venue (yes, there are conservative Deadheads). It's sad because the tolerance and "live and let live" ideals are gone. As a bass player, I miss the days of standing in front of Phil waiting for him to drop "Phil bombs", but the crowd is so intolerant and lacks the thought diversity that it did back in the day that I don't bother going to shows anymore.

[@cardinalchiropractic7439]

I don’t find the current shows intolerant at all it’s a safe space for me always has been

[@Goldtele94]

Exactly my point! Be kind! Please don’t blow out another bands candle in an attempt to make yours brighter!

[@thechuke3785]

eyes> drums>space 10/31/21playing while watching this

[@badbassfishing9974]

I'm really happy to have found you on here. The good parts are always harder to remember. But there have been a lot of good parts. I was never a dead head, my friends were. They dragged me to so many shows. You remind me of the people I loved. That's good enough.

[@37HD]

Some deadheads are like outlaw bikers. Brag about "being free" yet stuck in their old strict social norms. I saw a dozen shows in high-school and college including being on the floor at Jerry's last show in Chicago. I didn't look the part and felt like a stranger too.

[@ryanmattingly6292]

They are all sewn into the tapestry of our lives and into our souls and you know it ☝️☝️☝️ 🎶🎶🎶

[@GratefulGrackle2668]

I don't care how, when or why you got on the bus. Ill quote myself here. "You werent born in the wrong generation. You were born in this time and place to make sure the music never stops."

[@lucysmart1476]

I’ve grown up second generation dead head and having listened to this music for so much of my young life lol when I saw it was popular I immediately started to not like that. Learning not to hate keep is the most essential part of enjoying any artist or any music I feel and it goes for so many different genres and artists. The more people who enjoy the dead the longer the music sticks around. When it’s gone we’re all gonna be real sad.

[@Denboii]

I loved that point that Deadheads are the same no matter where you go. I was in the Netherlands this past spring and my trip lined up with a Dead cover show on King's Night which is essentially a night long pre-game for King's Day. (Unrelated but if you're going to go to the Netherlands, line it up with King's Day and you won't regret it.) Anyway, I get to the show and the police shut it down right before the band was supposed to go on due to an angry neighbor. I eventually saw some young Dutch folks donning Stealies and Marching Bears and we got to talking. They were some of the sweetest people I have ever met and we ended up prowling the streets of Utrecht hitting various street parties, grooving with each other, and getting to know and love one another. They even offered me a ride back to the town I was staying in since the trains only came once an hour. We all exchanged phone numbers and are still in fairly close contact. (Elise, if you're reading this, thank you for bringing me onto your Bozo bus). Since then a couple of the guys in that group have started their own Dead cover band and it looks like both bands are starting to gain more of a following. It was one of the highlights of my entire trip and gave me proof I could find family wherever I am as long as I can find another Deadhead.

[@jaym.5036]

I love Utrecht! Favorite city in Netherlands. I love the canals, how low they are...with the condos and buildings and shops. My favorite country and favorite people! GRATEFUL DEAD FOR LIFE ❤💛💚

[@danielcoash303]

davvy knows goose :D Drop the LESSONS broski

[@ryanmattingly6292]

It's okay I'm glad you're coming to the point of understanding the flow of this culture

[@dxhydro1]

Bobby and the Dead have been a resource in helping Mayer overcome his recovery from chronic douchebagism

[@johnmiller5987]

Tour was never easy. Always drama eventually. Everyone is guilty. Most of us come from dysfunctional families and we're dysfunctional too. It's about self recognition and making an effort to improve

[@JB-Deadskins]

Bobby never left the band. He and Pigpen were fired, but they never left so it didn't stick. Also Tom Constanten was an original member, he came with Phil, but he quickly realized that it wasn't for him. Mickey left for three years, 71 to 74, because his father, Lenny, who was the band's money manager, imbezzled $155K and disappeared.

[@johnnycash2254]

Yeah, that’s pretty much it. Interesting how the music was so different w and w/o Mickey.

[@talizmondakine1995]

Speaking of toxic fans....you got me through Corona....thank u for teaching us

[@mikeyj.3605]

The Grateful Dead are a way of life.

[@danshramo2648]

It's like a Telefunken U47...

[@arblankenship54]

Coming from a Relatively new Desdhead by way of Ween, there’s definitely toxicity I see within myself about Mayer dead, like you said he is an amazing guitar player but I can’t help but identify the insurmountable gap between his playing and Jerry’s.

[@erickierce7241]

Spot on! Couldn't agree more. The other thing I'd add is the whole "Holier than thou" attitude that some Deadheads have of "Phish sucks", "this band sucks", etc. Can't stand that whole negativity thing. There are so many folks who think that because they aren't into something, it must "suck". I mean . . if you don't like Trey, you don't like Meyer, you don't like . . . whoever, that doesn't mean they suck, it just means they aren't your cup of tea. . . just like you said, don't be a dick.

[@andrewweaver2517]

I love talking shit about other bands. As long as it's in jest. It's all in good fun. I think anyone thats a Primus fan knows it's best to just be open about how much you suck.

[@dannydonnelly8345]

There will be hippies listening to the grateful Dead on starships in the year 3500. On that same starship they will be listening to Beethoven and the Beatles.

[@stevejohnson2052]

80/20 rule like so many things in life. 80% of Deadheads are great. Friendly, honest, caring, and sharing. 20% are awful. Deader than thou, cutting in front of you, stealing, etc. I see people surprised that they were ripped off or stolen from; just because most Deadheads are great doesn't mean that there won't be bottom feeders in the scene, and they will take advantage of the fact that people think that ALL Deadheads are great.

[@daveyboy8907]

Great talk as this all needed said...Your killing it bro.

[@jdnoneya5231]

I've never used recreational drugs, but the first time I heard the American Beauty album in eighth grade, 82-83, I was hooked. So amazing, then trading tapes and so forth. Life changing stuff, I think it's a shame people are lucky enough to be exposed the music and don't get the peace, love and radical autonomy that I get from it. From my perspective, the whole point of the Grateful Dead is that nobody has to conform to anyone else's trip, but we damn sure shouldn't try to force them to conform to ours.

[@judwillmont4856]

I like you stuff man. Thanks for the rant. I love what you said about how the dead songs are becoming the new ‘standards’ - I’ve felt that way for a while as well. I do what I can to play the music out here in China cat land (yes, I live in China). Rock on bro and keep making vids. I learn a lot from you.

[@JAMN2GD]

I do agree just let people enjoy what they want as all are different. PERIOD! To each their own.

[@jordan4963]

The Mayer hate this tour is getting out of hand. Dude has been throwing DOWN.

[@bobwesthead7233]

Dude, it's called Bohemia. It isn't necessarily a grateful dead thing. It's more hippie or hipster. A dead show is a bohemian fest. People sell art, jewelry, clothing....yes of course drugs as well. I go to dead shows. All I do is smoke weed. I don't drink. To each their own. All heads are different.

[@michaelcardamone3745]

Lol Keith left the band before Brent joined, having a keyboardist for 7 years, then another 7 years, then 10 years, then 5 is hardly a revolving door

[@ChicoEscuela]

His history is a little off, but calling that out I guess is part of the problem.

[@ChicoEscuela]

And who were the "other' keyboards post Brent other than Vince and Bruce? Ah, picking nits...

[@TobyDavvy]

Fellas, I didn’t have a script for this. Excuse my misspeaking. It happens.

[@ChicoEscuela]

@@TobyDavvy I can see that. It's one of those paradoxes where old school heads always want to keep one upping on details and history, BUT, you are laying out stories for the next generation and should get more grounded in details. That's a fair critique. Also, I am off a bit on you tossing the Dead into the drug band bin. True? Yes? Sure, but was that all it was? Was it? Simplification in my view. It is not political or chemical, maybe it is spiritual or metaphysical, or at the very least a cultural phenomenon, a quirk in history yet deeply woven into the American fabric. But definitely beyond "drug band."