Many fans are excited for Dead & Company to perform at their series of concerts later this year as it would be their final tour ever. However, the band made a surprising announcement, saying drummer Bill Kreutzmann will not be a part of it; what happened?
According to a statement released by the band on their official Instagram account, consisting of members John Mayer, Mickey Hart, and Bob Weir, the drummer will not be joining them on their final tour due to creative differences.
"After many long discussions and some good old-fashioned soul searching, we are letting you know that our brother Bill Kreutzmann will not be joining us on our final summer tour," they wrote.
The band later clarified that although he will not play the drums on the upcoming shows, the musician will not be retiring from the music industry.
The main reason why he will be absent despite being a part of the original lineup was because of a "shift in creative direction" as they keep their songs alive.
"Bill wants you to know that he is in good spirits, good health and he is not retiring," they added. (via Kool 101.7)
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Not The First Time Bill Kreutzmann Wasn't Included in the Lineup
Last year, fans were shocked as Dead & Company confirmed that they will be going on their last tour ever.
Guitarist Bob Weir said it looks like "that's it for this outfit," before telling fans that all members will still be out there performing in another form until they "drop."
This is not the first time Kreutzmann will be absent from the lineup during concerts as he was previously forced to sit out in some occasions due to his health.
Whenever he was not available to play, Weir's drummer, Jay Lane, replaces him, but it's still unclear if the drummer would be playing for the band's upcoming shows.
Dead and Company Final Tour
According to Consequence, the group of musicians will perform at their final set of shows ever, beginning at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles on May 19 and 20, 2023.
They will then visit several cities across the United States like Saratoga Springs, St. Louis, Chicago, Cincinnati, Philadelphia, Boulder, New York, and many more.
Dead & Company's final stop would be a three-night show at Oracle Park in San Francisco from July 14 to July 16, 2023.
For more information about the upcoming tour, visit their official website in this link.
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