Andy Cohen’s Journey as a Grateful Dead Enthusiast

Deadheads influence various facets of American life. Among them is reality TV icon Andy Cohen. Widely recognized as the host of Bravo’s Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen and as an executive producer for the Real Housewives series, Cohen is also an ardent fan of the Grateful Dead.

During the annual Days Between from August 1 to August 9, NPR Music explores the enduring appeal of the Grateful Dead and how their legacy is sustained. The phrase “Weir Everywhere” is a popular catchphrase among fans, reflecting the widespread presence of Deadheads in society. The band may have officially disbanded over 30 years ago, yet their music persists through archived recordings, groups led by surviving members, and tribute bands. Fans continue to gather to enjoy this music.

Andy Cohen’s Connection to the Dead

Even Andy Cohen, known for his role in modern television, is a dedicated Deadhead. Over the past decade, he has frequently been seen enjoying concerts by Dead & Company, a group led by Bob Weir and John Mayer. Although many connect Cohen to the band through his friendship with Mayer, his affiliation with the Grateful Dead dates back much further.

In a conversation with NPR Music, Cohen reflected on his long-standing relationship with the band. He became a Deadhead in high school in 1985. Influenced by the music, he and his friends became avid fans, attending multiple concerts.

First Concert Experiences

Cohen recounted his first live experience in 1986 when he traveled from Saint Louis to Wisconsin in a Buick Skylark convertible. After convincing his mother to let him stay overnight, he spent an unforgettable weekend immersed in the band’s music. He later attended performances at Red Rocks, feeling fortunate to witness such iconic venues.

Though his career later took him to New York, limiting his concert attendance, Cohen never abandoned the music. He preserved his cassette tapes from the 1990s and continued listening to the Grateful Dead, even when unable to attend live events.

Reconnection Through Fare Thee Well

Cohen’s passion reignited in 2015 when he attended the Fare Thee Well concert with Mayer. The performance left him feeling revitalized, as if stepping back in time to his younger self. This moment coincided with Dead & Company’s formation, leading to ongoing stadium tours that he attended.

Cohen described the resurgence of the Grateful Dead’s music as a revitalization, akin to the reappearance of a magical world. Fans returned, bringing their families, and the music unified them beyond individual differences.

Discovering Familiar Faces

Through his relationship with the band’s members and their families, Cohen enjoyed unique experiences. Despite his fame, the music remained central, allowing him to interact with the band on a personal level, yet equally as a dedicated fan.

Cohen fondly recalled attending shows with a friend who originally had a difficult experience during the band’s earlier years. He successfully persuaded her to join him at a final concert, witnessing her transformation back into her younger self, reconnecting with their shared past.

Future Engagement with Grateful Dead’s Music

As Dead & Company’s active touring concludes, Cohen plans to remain engaged through recorded music and tribute bands. He actively seeks opportunities to experience the music live, regardless of the musicians performing. His commitment underscores his lasting bond with the Grateful Dead’s culture and music.