On July 14th in music history, one significant event took place in 1995. On this day, the Grateful Dead performed their final concert with lead guitarist and founding member Jerry Garcia at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois.
The Grateful Dead, formed in 1965, was a pioneering psychedelic rock band known for their eclectic style, fusion of various musical genres, and dedicated fan base known as "Deadheads." Jerry Garcia, the band's frontman and lead guitarist, was a central figure in the group's success and iconic status.
The show on July 14th, 1995, was the second of a two-night run at Soldier Field, with an estimated 50,000 fans in attendance. The setlist included classic Dead songs such as "Touch of Grey," "Shakedown Street," and "Box of Rain." Unbeknownst to fans and even band members, this would be the last time Garcia performed with the Grateful Dead.
Sadly, just a month later, on August 9th, 1995, Jerry Garcia passed away in his sleep at a rehabilitation clinic in Forest Knolls, California. His death marked the end of an era for the Grateful Dead and sent shockwaves through the music community.
The July 14th, 1995 concert at Soldier Field has since become a bittersweet memory for Deadheads, as it represents the last time the band performed with its iconic leader. The Grateful Dead's legacy, however, lives on through their extensive discography, live recordings, and the enduring influence they had on the music world.
