Dead & Company are preparing to head out on their final tour, but drummer Bill Kreutzmann will not be joining them.
The Grateful Dead chapter announced the news in an Instagram post shared on April 22. “After many long discussions and some old-fashioned soul-searching, we are telling you that our brother Bill Kreutzmann will not be joining us for our final summer tour,” the band said. “Bill wants you to know that he is in good spirits and in good health and is not retiring.”
The band continued, “This is the culmination of a shift in creative direction as we keep these songs alive and breathing in the ways we feel best to continue honoring The Grateful Dead’s legacy. The final tour will continue as planned with Bell’s full endorsement and support.” Check out the full statement below.
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The Dead & Company farewell tour kicks off in May and includes a special benefit show at Cornell University’s Barton Hall, marked by the 46 years to the day since The Grateful Dead played a legendary set at the venue. Before touring begins in earnest, the jam band will perform at the New Orleans Jazz Festival alongside Ed Sheeran, Lizzo, Mumford & Sons, Robert Plant, Alison Krauss, Santana, and The Lumineers. Tickets for all of their upcoming concerts are now on sale here.
