While playing with Phil Lesh, Luther Dickinson connected with Lesh’s son, Grahame, and together they launched Dead Blues—a Phil & Friends offshoot reimagining traditional blues and folk songs from the Grateful Dead catalog.

Originally conceived as a live show concept, Dead Blues evolved into a recording project after Dickinson met vocalist Datrian Johnson, introduced by John Medeski. Inspired by Johnson’s soulful voice, the group recorded Dead Blues Volume I, offering fresh interpretations of American roots classics.

The album features North Mississippi Allstars members Cody Dickinson and Rayfield “Ray Ray” Holloman, along with Memphis collaborators Paul Taylor (New Memphis Colorways) and Steve Selvidge. 

Dead Blues Vol I is set for release on October 17, 2025 via Strolling Bones Records.