With the first Dead & Company tour date just four days away (10/29 in Albany, NY), guitarist John Mayer stopped by Andy Cohen’s SiriusXM Radio program to discuss his role in the upcoming performance. Mayer said he’s learned over 80 songs, and is studying the Dead’s music diligently for the tour.
“It’s a challenge for me to figure out how much of this gig is to be enjoyed by way of my having fun… Like, shouldn’t the guy who gets to play all these great songs have some drinks and hang out? But I also have to be so focused to be able to play that music that people sort of go a little blurry too.”
John Mayer and Bob Weir Comment On Touring After Fare Thee Well
The way he discusses the performance shows a great amount of respect for the band and their fans, and his work ethic is sure to translate into some great concerts. He also shared some tidbits about the shows, saying that the first three setlists are written, and that he’ll be singing the “Lady With A Fan” section in “Terrapin Station”.
Mayer says, “If you’re a superfan, you’ll understand this: I’m singing ‘Lady With a Fan’ and Bob [Weir] is singing ‘Terrapin Station’.” Listen to the full interview clip below:
[Via Relix]