Grateful Dead

In January 1969, when the Grateful Dead performed "St. Stephen" on "Playboy After Dark," they were poised at a pivotal point in their career. Just prior to this performance, they released their self-titled debut album in 1967, which had introduced their eclectic blend of rock, folk, and psychedelic music to the public. By late 1968, they were preparing to release their second album, "Anthem of the Sun," which came out later that year. This live performance highlighted their growing reputation as a captivating live act, showcasing their improvisational skills and deep musical explorations. The choice of "Playboy After Dark," a show linked to the late-night variety genre, offered the Grateful Dead a platform to reach a wider audience, blending countercultural music with mainstream appeal, a trend they would continue to explore throughout their career.

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