Explore 15 Unique Adaptations of “Dead Perform”

John Mayer recently honored the legacy of the Grateful Dead by performing “Ripple” at Bob Weir’s memorial. This 1970 classic from “American Beauty” has become an enduring anthem for fans. Its resonance spans generations, and it is often sung passionately by both young and old Deadheads.

15 Unique Adaptations of “Ripple”

This article explores 15 unique renditions of “Ripple” by various incarnations of the Grateful Dead. The song has seen numerous performances from its debut to recent tributes.

Early Performances

• Grateful Dead: Aug. 18, 1970 – San Francisco, CA @ The Fillmore West
  The song premiered during a bill featuring New Riders of the Purple Sage. This live performance marked the beginning of “Ripple” in the band’s repertoire.
• Grateful Dead: Oct. 31, 1980 – New York, NY @ Radio City Music Hall
  “Ripple” returned to the setlist after nearly a decade, delivered by keyboardist Brent Mydland during a Halloween concert.
• Grateful Dead: Sept. 3, 1988 – Landover, MD @ The Capitol Center
  This appearance marked the first electric “Ripple” in seven years. Fans were unaware they were witnessing its final live performance by the original band.

Post-Garcia Performances

• The Other Ones: June 28, 1998 – East Rutherford, NJ @ Continental Airlines Arena
  Following Jerry Garcia’s passing, members Bob Weir, Phil Lesh, and Bill Kreutzmann brought back “Ripple” as an encore during this special set.
• Phil Lesh and Friends: July 3, 1999 – San Francisco, CA @ The Warfield Theater
  A unique rendition featured drummer Kreutzmann and highlighted Lesh’s embrace of the Grateful Dead legacy in his new project.
• The Dead: July 11, 2003 – Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre
  The original members reunited under “The Dead,” showcasing their collective history by performing “Ripple” during this highly anticipated concert.

Recent Revivals

• Dead & Company: Nov. 25, 2017 – Columbus, OH @ Nationwide Arena
  The ensemble, featuring John Mayer, continued the tradition of “Ripple,” introducing the song to a new generation of fans.
• Bob Weir and Wolf Bros: Nov. 9, 2021 – Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre
  Weir’s new project further developed the legacy of the Grateful Dead, incorporating “Ripple” into their live sets.
• John Mayer & Company: Jan. 17, 2026 – San Francisco, CA @ Civic Center Plaza
  In another poignant tribute, Mayer performed “Ripple” surrounded by notable attendees, including Nancy Pelosi and Joan Baez, highlighting the song’s continuous impact.

“Ripple” has undergone numerous adaptations throughout the years, demonstrating its timeless appeal. From intimate memorials to grand stages, the song lives on in the hearts of fans and musicians alike.