Bill Kreutzmann Drops Off Dead and Company's Final Tour

"This is the culmination of a shift in creative direction as we keep these songs alive and breathing in ways that we each feel is best to continue to honour the legacy of the Grateful Dead"

Photo: Matt Tillett

BY Megan LaPierrePublished Apr 24, 2023

Founding Grateful Dead drummer Bill Kreutzmann has pulled out of Dead and Company's final tour dates — but he's in "good health" and isn't retiring.

The legacy act fronted by John Mayer and featuring fellow original members Bob Weir and Mickey Hart shared the news in a statement over the weekend, writing:

Dear Deadheads,

Every day, things change. After many long discussions and some good old-fashioned soul searching, we are letting you know that our brother Bill Kreutzmann will not be joining us on our final summer tour. Bill wants you to know that he is in good spirits, good health and he is not retiring.

This is the culmination of a shift in creative direction as we keep these songs alive and breathing in ways that we each feel is best to continue to honour the legacy of the Grateful Dead. The final tour will go on as planned with Bill's full endorsement and support.

See you at Jazz Fest!

"Let the Music Play the Band"

Bobby, Billy, Mickey and John

 
 
Dead and Company will begin their final run of US shows at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival on May 6. See the full list of dates on the band's website.

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