Bob Weir and John Mayer reunited for their first collaborative performance since wrapping up Dead & Company‘s summer tour on Monday at the Rise For The River flood relief benefit at Pine Creek Lodge in Livingston, MT. Organized by Mayer, a Livingston resident, the event raised funds to support those affected by the recent historic flooding of Montana’s Yellowstone River, which devastated the local tourism-based economy. Monday was the first of three Rise For The River events set to take place this month.
Montana bluegrass band Kitchen Dwellers opened the show with a set that included songs from the band’s new album, Wise River. Then Weir and Mayer took the stage at the intimate venue and performed a set of 13 Grateful Dead classics including “Friend of the Devil”, “Bertha”, “Loser”, “Brown Eyed Women”, and more. Before starting “Cassidy”, Weir recalled that the song was written nearby, and the two guitarists used the composition to showcase the deep musical connection they’ve developed over the past several years with an extended improvised jam.
After runs through “Bird Song”, “Uncle John’s Band”, “Jack Straw”, and “Deal” with Mayer on acoustic guitar and Weir on electric, the pair played “Terrapin Station”. “This is a very exciting one for me to play acoustic,” Mayer acknowledged. “I don’t know if I’ll ever play it again acoustic.” The duo then closed the set with “Eyes of the World” and “Not Fade Away”.
The Rise For The River flood relief benefit will continue on Sunday, August 14th with a show featuring Dave Chappelle and John Mayer, followed by a John Mayer solo show with support from The Last Revel on Sunday, August 21st. Tickets for both events are sold out, but four days remain to bid on packages including GA tickets for the John Mayer concert on August 21st and a signed poster. Bidding is currently at over $12,000 and the auction has raised approximately $65,500 so far.
Proceeds will benefit the SW MT Flood Relief Fund, a partnership between the Park County Community Foundation and Greater Gallatin United Way. The funding will provide support for immediate needs like emergency shelter, drinking water, food, clothing, and food replacement from lost freezers and refrigerators, and will also help with clean-up and rebuilding efforts. To donate directly, text Flood22 to 41444 or click here.
Watch Bob Weir and John Mayer perform at Monday’s Rise For The River benefit concert below.
Bob Weir, John Mayer – “Friend of the Devil” [Pro-Shot] – 8/8/22
Bob Weir, John Mayer – “Brown Eyed Women” – 8/8/22
[Video: Rock N Knit]