Bob Weir and John Mayer of Dead & Company have sparked excitement about the possibility of recording new music together, despite their Las Vegas Sphere residency nearing its conclusion. Originally formed in 2015, the band was created as a tribute to the Grateful Dead, featuring the talents of Weir and Mayer, renowned for his exceptional guitar skills. Although the band had announced their final gig for 2023, they opted to extend their run in Las Vegas, culminating on May 17.
During an interview with Guitar World, Weir expressed a desire to explore studio projects in the future, including both reimagining live songs and crafting original compositions. “Oh, it’s something I would still love to do,” he said, emphasizing the enthusiasm shared among the group.
Mayer, while indicating that the topic hasn’t been discussed extensively, echoed a supportive sentiment, stating, “If Bobby and Mickey [Hart] want to do it, I want to do it.” His openness to new opportunities highlights a collaborative spirit that has defined their partnership.
Weir also conveyed a vision of expanding their music’s reach globally, stating, “This is quintessentially American music that we’re doing, and I would love to play it for people everywhere.” He noted that their performances have evolved to be more accessible to international audiences, making it feasible for a wider appreciation of their music across cultures.
While Mayer aims to remain flexible with future projects, he hinted at the creative potential that lies ahead, recognizing the ever-changing landscape of music technology. He believes that future collaborations may emerge from innovative ideas, as seen in the unique setting of the Sphere.
The band’s recent Las Vegas residencies have been marked by memorable highlights and surprises, including Weir’s guest appearance with the Best of All Worlds band, showcasing a shared dedication to music that transcends boundaries.
This evolving narrative surrounding Dead & Company demonstrates a hopeful prospect for both new music and performances, igniting anticipation among fans for what might come next in their storied collaboration.