Bill Kreutzmann Recruits David Rawlings, Gillian Welch, Holly Bowling, Members of Weather Report, the Disco Biscuits, Eggy, SCI and More For A Very Grateful Thanksgiving

Bill Kreutzmann, famed drummer of the Grateful Dead and longstanding Hawaii resident, is set to orchestrate a notable musical gathering titled A Very Grateful Thanksgiving. Scheduled to take place from November 27 to 29 at the Porter Pavilion in Kauai, Hawaii, this event promises an eclectic lineup reflecting Kreutzmann’s diverse musical network.

The roster includes an array of distinguished musicians spanning various genres, many of whom have connections to the Grateful Dead’s enduring legacy or share ties through collaborative projects. Noteworthy performers confirmed for the event are bassist Alphonso Johnson, known for his work with The Other Ones and Weather Report, and Aron Magner of Billy & The Kids and the Disco Biscuits. The presence of David Rawlings and Gillian Welch, both acclaimed for their folk and Americana contributions, adds a rich layer of sonic texture.

Holly Bowling, recognized for her distinctive piano interpretations of Grateful Dead compositions, will also contribute. Her improvisational approach to classic Dead tunes has previously resonated with Kreutzmann, who cited her performances as integral to his past holiday experiences. Additional artists include members from bands such as Eggy, the String Cheese Incident, Punch Brothers, Skeleton Crewe, and RatDog, highlighting a blend of jam band, bluegrass, and jazz influences.

This multi-day event marks Kreutzmann’s return to active public engagement after a period of relative quiet on social media. Prior to the announcement, he shared several posts that hinted at collaboration possibilities, including endorsements of performances by Welch and Rawlings and a nod to Bowling’s solo interpretations. These interactions sparked speculation about a forthcoming project centered around gratitude and musical kinship.

The event’s setting in Kauai underscores Kreutzmann’s deep ties to Hawaii, where he has resided for years, and where he previously hosted Mahalo Dead, a concert featuring various musicians from his circle. His recent public appearances include that event around Thanksgiving 2023 and a performance at the Kennedy Center Honors, reflecting ongoing involvement in high-profile music celebrations.

While the exact details regarding Kreutzmann’s own participation during the Kauai event remain unclear, past collaborations provide context. He has performed alongside Alphonso Johnson and Mark Karan in The Other Ones and maintains ongoing projects with artists like Magner and Reed Mathis through Billy & The Kids. The inclusion of these musicians suggests a dynamic interplay of familiar partnerships and fresh collaborations.

Welch, Rawlings, and Paul Kowert of Punch Brothers have been actively touring in a tribute context known as the Reckoning tour, further strengthening their relevance to this Grateful Dead-inspired gathering. Their involvement in A Very Grateful Thanksgiving signals a continued exploration of the Dead’s musical heritage through innovative reinterpretation.

Despite the anticipation surrounding the event, specifics such as setlists, collaborative performances, or additional guest appearances have not been disclosed, leaving some aspects open for future revelation. Nevertheless, the convergence of these artists in a celebratory environment curated by Kreutzmann signals a significant homage to the Grateful Dead’s enduring influence and a communal expression of gratitude through music.

A Very Grateful Thanksgiving stands as a testament to Kreutzmann’s ongoing role in fostering connections within the jam band and broader music communities. The event reflects both a personal and artistic celebration, anchored in Hawaii’s vibrant cultural backdrop, and promises to offer attendees a unique blend of reverence and innovation during the holiday weekend.