The Grateful Dead’s “Formerly the Warlocks” Show at Hampton Coliseum – October 8, 1989

Every so often, the Grateful Dead turned a concert into folklore. October 8, 1989, at the Hampton Coliseum in Virginia, is one of those nights. Known among fans as the first of the two “Formerly the Warlocks” shows, this performance was more than a concert—it was a statement. Without officially billing themselves as the Grateful Dead, the band rolled into Hampton under their original name, sparking whispers, rumors, and a rush of fans who sensed something extraordinary was about to happen.

On Dead Set Live, where every track we revisit is the live version, this show takes its rightful place as one of the most legendary in the Dead’s history.

Set One: A Surprise Return to the Psychedelic Core

The first set alone would have been enough to elevate Hampton ’89 into the history books. Right out of the gate, the Dead made clear that this was no ordinary night by opening with “Foolish Heart” (live), a song that was still relatively new but already cementing itself as a late-era Garcia classic.

From there, they leaned into old favorites, including a sparkling “Walkin’ Blues” (live) led by Weir, and a heartfelt “Candyman” (live), Garcia’s voice dripping with soul as Brent Mydland’s keys added a warm, textured backdrop.

But it was the next song that sent shockwaves through the crowd: “To Lay Me Down” (live), the Garcia ballad that had been absent from the rotation for nearly a decade. Its return was nothing short of breathtaking, a hushed moment where the Coliseum held its collective breath.

The surprises didn’t end there. “Jack-A-Roe” (live) kept the crowd on its toes before the Dead delivered the night’s first big jam centerpiece: “Let It Grow” (live). This version stretched and soared, a reminder of just how powerful the Dead’s improvisational energy was in 1989, when their playing was tight, fierce, and inspired.

Closing the set, “Deal” (live) brought the house down with Garcia’s guitar work cutting through like lightning. By the end of the first set, fans already knew they were witnessing something historic.

Set Two: The Heavy Hitters Return

If the first set was a showcase of surprises, the second set was a return to the psychedelic heart of the Grateful Dead. Kicking off with “Dark Star” (live)—the first performance since 1984—the Coliseum erupted. Hearing the opening notes of this iconic space-jazz masterpiece was enough to send chills through every Deadhead in attendance. The band stretched the song into a swirling journey, Garcia’s guitar weaving in and out of Phil’s booming bass lines, with Brent and Weir adding layers of color.

The transition into “Playing in the Band” (live) felt seamless, the Dead pushing boundaries as they always had. The improvisation flowed into “Uncle John’s Band” (live), a singalong that grounded the night in pure joy before dissolving once again into deep space.

The setlist continued with “Drums > Space” (live), Mickey and Billy turning the Coliseum into a percussive jungle before the band reemerged with “I Need a Miracle” (live), igniting the crowd. From there, the music shifted into the powerful and emotional “Death Don’t Have No Mercy” (live), another rarity resurrected for this unforgettable weekend.

Closing the set, “Sugar Magnolia” (live) turned Hampton into a celebration, fans dancing wildly as if they knew they had just been part of history.

The encore sealed it: “Attics of My Life” (live). Another long-shelved treasure, its delicate harmonies floated over the crowd, leaving an indelible mark.

Why Hampton ’89 Matters

The October 8, 1989 show wasn’t just about the music—it was about the mythology. By performing under the name “Formerly the Warlocks,” the Dead freed themselves from expectations and unleashed a setlist loaded with surprises, rarities, and resurrections. The return of “Dark Star”, “Attics of My Life”, and “Death Don’t Have No Mercy” in one night made this concert instantly legendary.

For Deadheads, Hampton ’89 represents everything the band stood for: unpredictability, deep musical exploration, and the ability to transform any venue—whether a massive stadium or a mid-sized coliseum—into sacred ground.

Don’s Pick Radio Show – Tonight’s Journey

As always, Saturday night means it’s time for Don’s Pick Radio Show, where Don delivers his own kind of magic. Much like the Dead’s Hampton revival, Don’s show thrives on unpredictability, weaving together a handpicked selection of songs that move effortlessly across genres and eras. Every week, he curates a journey that feels personal yet universal, a reminder of the connective power of music.

Tonight’s Don’s Pick promises to be as adventurous as Hampton ’89—eclectic, soulful, and alive in the moment. For listeners who tune in, it’s more than just a radio show. It’s an invitation to rediscover the songs you thought you knew and to be surprised by the ones you didn’t.

At Dead Set Live, every performance is live, every story is true, and every Saturday night is dedicated to the music that continues to inspire.