Dead & Company, led by Grateful Dead members Bob Weir and Mickey Hart, alongside John Mayer, concluded their final tour in the summer of 2023. Despite the farewell tour, the band is gearing up for more live performances and hinted at an upcoming residency at The Sphere, the $2.3 billion venue opened by U2 in September 2023.
The announcement, made through social media posts, showcased videos concluding with The Sphere adorned with the band’s iconic red, white, and blue skull. While neither Dead & Company nor The Sphere provided additional details, sources close to the situation suggested a 14-show residency beginning in May, according to the New York Post. Rolling Stone reported that the band is set to perform at least 15 shows at The Sphere.
U2 had previously extended their residency at the venue until March 2, and Phish is scheduled for four shows from April 18-21. The addition of Dead & Company to the lineup signals the venue’s appeal as a sought-after destination for renowned musical acts.
Hints about a potential residency surfaced during CNN’s “New Year’s Eve Live,” where co-host Andy Cohen asked John Mayer about the future of Dead & Company after their final tour. Mayer responded cryptically, saying, “I’m not at liberty to say just yet. But, have hope is what I’ll say,” leaving fans eager for more details.
Formed in 2015, Dead & Company serves as a continuation of the Grateful Dead’s legacy, which disbanded after Jerry Garcia’s death in 1995. The surviving members, Weir, Hart, Phil Lesh, and Bill Kreutzmann, continued to perform together under different band names like The Other Ones, the Dead, and Further. In celebration of the band’s 50th anniversary, the “Core Four” held three farewell shows in Chicago in 2015, known as “Fare Thee Well.”
Following Lesh’s departure to form Phil and Friends, Weir, Hart, and Kreutzmann, along with new additions John Mayer and bassist Oteil Burbridge, formed Dead & Company. The band also welcomed drummer Jay Lane for the 2023 summer tour, replacing Bill Kreutzmann.
The Sphere, designed as an immersive experience, has become a significant attraction on the Las Vegas Strip. With U2’s extended residency, Phish’s upcoming performances, and the potential Dead & Company residency, The Sphere is establishing itself as a premier venue for iconic musical acts.
While the farewell tour marked a significant moment in Dead & Company’s journey, the prospect of a residency at The Sphere hints at a continuation of their musical adventure. The allure of witnessing the band’s live performances in an innovative venue adds to the anticipation for fans and underscores the enduring impact of the Grateful Dead’s musical legacy. As details unfold, the excitement surrounding Dead & Company’s potential residency at The Sphere is sure to grow, offering fans a chance to experience their timeless music in a captivating setting.