Playing The Dead

Plying The Dead is available for your party, festival, event. get ready to dance and enjoy the sounds of Grateful Dead, Dead & Company, Jerry Garcia, Bob Weir as well as Bob Dylan, The Band, Allman Bros. and more. The band can perform from a smaller solo, duo, trio on up to a large 7-piece band, with add'l musicians (backing singer, horns, keyboards, etc.).

PLAYING THE DEAD: Celebrating the Music of Grateful Dead, Jerry Garcia and more…

Rooted in the heart of San Francisco’s storied musical landscape, Playing The Dead is more than just a tribute band—they are a living, breathing homage to the spirit of the Grateful Dead and Jerry Garcia. Fusing improvisation, psychedelic textures, and heartfelt musicianship, the band captures the essence of The Dead's legendary live shows while adding their own unique spark to every performance.

Formed by a collective of Bay Area musicians with deep reverence for The Dead’s catalog and countercultural ethos, Playing The Dead has quickly gained a loyal following throughout Northern California. Their shows are journeys—equal parts celebration and ceremony—where long-time Deadheads and new listeners alike gather to dance, connect, and relive the magic.

Whether lighting up a beloved Bay Area venue, an outdoor festival, or a surprise pop-up jam, Playing The Dead delivers every show with the same adventurous spirit that made the Grateful Dead a phenomenon. For them, the music never stopped—it just evolved.

Playing The Dead invites you to turn on, tune in, and take the trip.

We can provide our own PA sound equipment, if required. Some additional fees may apply.