Though John Mayer has spent the last few months very gratefully with Dead & Company, the guitarist made his first appearance supporting his solo music last weekend at the Roots Picnic in New York, NY. Mayer’s guitarwork was spot on, perhaps fueled by his newfound influence and training in the Grateful Dead world. Not only that, but his rhythm section was as tight as could be, especially with bassist Pino Palladino and The Roots behind him.
Fortunately, a full length video of Mayer’s performance has emerged on YouTube, capturing the guitarist’s short but sweet set with the band. Mayer played a few of his original songs, including “Paper Doll,” “Waiting on the World to Change,” and “Gravity,” before treating fans to a cover of Bill Withers’ “Ain’t No Sunshine.” He also stayed and accompanied on The Roots’ “You Got Me” to close out his first run. Mayer would appear later in the night to accompany The Roots and D’Angelo, as well.
Watch the full Mayer set below, courtesy of moeROCKinFRee on YouTube.