The music photography magazine gallery of
Grateful Dead concert pictures
`Grateful Dead` are a Rock band from America. Here they are photographed and captured in Analog from the stage & pit area during concerts in America in 1980, 81 & 87. For more information & to follow the band on social media use the following external links.
Grateful Dead concert pictures ~ Bill O’Leary
A word from the photographer
ON THIS NIGHT: GRATEFUL DEAD
These images are from three different shows, 1980, 1981 and 1987. The earliest, my first time seeing the GRATEFUL DEAD, was at Nassau Coliseum on Long Island, New York in 1980, where they were supporting the “Go to Heaven” album. My first impression was that the crowd was there to party and enjoy every minute of the show.
Jerry Garcia
Shooting the legendary Jerry Garcia was very important to me as I recognized his iconic status even then. The following year, I photographed them at Madison Square Garden. I had photographed my share of shows up to this point, all different types of audiences, but on this night, I experienced the most unnerving and dangerous crowd situation ever.
In the crush
When the house lights went down and the show began, thousands of fans crashed the main floor from all sides of the arena, crushing everyone below and in front. I literally elevated off the floor in the crush, while taking my shots of the band as quickly as possible, thankfully surviving the night.
Red Rocks Amphitheater
My final time shooting the Grateful Dead, took place at a much more pleasant environment in 1987, world famous Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado. I went to three of the four nights that they played, these shows being the last time Jerry Garcia was able to play at that high of an altitude due to his failing health.
Beautiful venue
Compared to the crowd in 1981 at Madison Square Garden, this scene was concert heaven, very friendly crowd, beautiful venue. I have photographed a few shows at Red Rocks over the years and can say it is certainly the most beautiful and magic of concert venues that I have ever been to. Years later, these GRATEFUL DEAD shows had become the shows of legend. I’m glad to have captured these images and have sold many images to fans and publications alike.
Location and date of these concert captures
Nassau Coliseum / Madison Square Garden / Red Rocks Amphitheater /America
Photographer`s favourite shot
Adverts on Chasing The Light Art
Photographer
After enjoying the Grateful Dead concert pictures by Bill O’Leary then make sure to visit his GALLERY. You will find more of his work, social media links & websites.
Record Label
Slideshow
Watch the slideshow of Grateful Dead concert pictures