#

Grateful Dead Live Performance of 'St. Stephen' from NYC Concert

Venue: Madison Square Garden Location: New York, New York, United States Date: October 11, 1983

On October 11, 1983, the Grateful Dead performed "St. Stephen" in New York City, marking the song's return to their setlist after a hiatus of over four years. This performance was significant as it was the first time the band played "St. Stephen" since January 10, 1979, showcasing their ability to revisit and reinterpret their extensive catalog. At this time, the band had recently welcomed keyboardist Brent Mydland, who had joined in 1979, adding a new dynamic to their sound. By 1983, the band was deep into a new era of live performances, having released the studio album "In the Dark" in 1987, which contributed to a resurgence in their popularity. The late '80s were characterized by a blend of traditional Grateful Dead improvisation and more polished, radio-friendly songwriting, which would further evolve in the years to come. This concert illustrates the band's adaptability and the importance of live performance in their legacy.

Watch on YouTube