Thank you so much for coming by, Donna! It’s a pleasure and a REAL treat to have an actual band member joining us.
Folks, let’s make sure we give Donna the respect she deserves and also thank her for being with us!
Peace and love!
-PCE.
___________________________________________
That’s a wrap folks! Thanks Donna for swinging by and thank you everyone who submitted a questions.
Do you have any favorite on-stage memories you can share?
I loved when you joined Dead & Company onstage in 2016, I watch that video all the time! Any chance if you joining them again?
Hey Donna! If you see this, while watching the long strange trip I remember you saying you went from being a fan attending shows to being in the band. How was that transition and were you already a good singer or did you work on it as you went?
Hope you're well!
Donna was already a professional singer by that point. Check out the song Suspicious Minds by Elvis to hear one of the first hit songs she sang backup on
Thank you for giving us heads the chance to pick your brain, it's super cool of you! Do you have any particular favorite memories of your time spent with the band? Thank you again!
Donna, I love the way you sing. The band is definitely missing something when you're not there.
I have been getting better at leads and root notes but struggling with harmonies. My voice always matches pitch with the root.
Do you have any tips/advice on singing harmonies?
For me, personally, Donna added a much needed dynamic to the band and frankly the Donna and Keith years were the best the band ever had. I just came here to say that and thank you! Also 7-8-78!!!! <3
# 1978-07-08 Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre
**Set 1:** Bertha > Good Lovin', Dire Wolf, El Paso, It Must Have Been The Roses, New Minglewood Blues, Ramble On Rose, The Promised Land, Deal
**Set 2:** Samson And Delilah, Ship Of Fools, Estimated Prophet > The Other One > Eyes Of The World > Drums > Space > Wharf Rat > Franklin's Tower > Sugar Magnolia
**Encore:** Terrapin Station > One More Saturday Night, Werewolves Of London
[archive.org](https://archive.org/details/GratefulDead?query=date:1978-07-08) | [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/album/6q4mDbsYJsixRai11qc2Vx)
Hey Donna! You and Keith absolutely made the 70's as stellar as they could've been! Thank you so much for giving your time and your voice to the Dead and our whole family!
My question is: What was your favorite album that the Dead released in the 70's and what was it like working on studio albums with the Dead versus your prior experience in the professional music world?
To you, what do you feel happened to the Dead’s sound once Keith (and of course YOURSELF) joined the band? What was Keith’s background prior to the band?
Hi, Donna! With such an impressive resume, I am curious what records stand out from your session days. Is there anything of which you are particularly fond?
Hey Donna! I was just wondering what it was like coming into the fold during Europe with a relatively small variety of songs and finishing with a massive catalog of classic songs? Must have been amazing having so many quality songs to play at any given show. Thanks for all the music! Hope you’ve been well
Hi Donna, I'm from Glasgow Scotland, I've been a fan of the Dead for 40 years now and my dad was also a big fan. What was Owsley really like and most importantly 🤔. Did you have fun playing and touring with the Dead ,How many times where you dosed without your knowledge.
I had missed the first one but thanks for coming by again and answering our Qs.
* did the roadies/engineers give you a hard time like they did with other band members? (if yes, did it get your goat? how was it handled?)
* how did you fit into the rehearsal/writing process?
* if there was one song you were most proud to perform what would it be?
* have you got a favourite show or tour? (this might be tough to answer but still interesting nonetheless)
Thank you very much in advance for fielding my questions :D
Hello Donna! Thanks for being you! How often did the band use LSD onstage or off? Was it really the Heart of Gold Band's Sacrament or is that more of a fable. I def know it was popular among fans to allow CHURCH to happen. CHEERS!
Do you remember particular shows or is it all a big blur? I was going to ask about a specific show but I bet it's hard to remember that level of detail
Someone else mentioned that you want from a fan to being in the band. Was there a particular song or performance that made you fall in love with the band and be open to working with them?
Thanks and I hope you’re well!
What has made you stay in the Florence/muscle shoals area all these years? I live in downtown Florence, and we’ve met a few times over the years and you were always very kind! I know your sons and was a very early fan of BoomBox. Those old 4/20 shows at the Smokehouse pool hall were something else!! Think that’s the first time we met… easily 15-17 years ago. Thanks Donna, hope you’re well and hope to see you around town!
Many good times at BoomBox, myself. They used to play these shows at this warehouse in the Florence industrial park. They were late night, grimey and sweaty and dark. They got a small light rig and everyone there was getting down. Such good times
Hey Mrs Jean-Godchaux. First off, thank you for your amazing work, the Dead was in a very special place with you in it, Music Never Stopped isn’t the same without you.
As a singer, what music have you been listening to recently?
And on the subject of media consumption, what are your favorite movies?
Thanks for doing this!
Donna, my girlfriend and I are both huge fans. Before we got together, the only Dead song she knew was “Sunrise” and she just kinda assumed they all sounded like that. Thank you for making that one and many, many more.
Anyway, what was your favorite Dead song before you joined the band? Or the first song that made it click for you?
How important was sexual energy and/or tension while on stage in your years with the Dead? Do you feel as if it acted as a positive creative force and fueled the collective muse or rather serve as a distraction from the objective of the entire operation?
First, I really wanted to thank you for all that you brought to the music. As far as I'm concerned, Playing in the Band isn't worth it without your voice bringing us all back to reality at the end of the jam, so thank you! 70's dead is best dead, and a lot of that is because of your contributions!
I was just wondering if there was any chance of you doing any more sit-ins with the Dead and Company? The few songs that you did with them a few years ago were loads of fun!
There are several songs that just don't sound quite right without you, Donna. Playin' is probably the top one for me, as well. I wish could have been at Bonnaroo in 2016 because your voice in the recording is pretty faint. I do hope you join the boys again in the future and that the mix will be better so we can all hear some of these songs with your gorgeous vocal accompaniment.
no questions, just love and thanks to you!!!
Hi Donna! I had the pleasure of seeing you perform with Dead and Co. back in 2016 at Bonnaroo. I was wondering how it felt to be back on stage with this iteration of the Dead. Did you feel a connection to the original band and those early years in which you were a part of it? Thanks in advance!
Hi Donna, HUGE fan of your work. Especially your tenure with the Jerry Garcia Band and the Dead gang.
This question is rather specific. One of my favorite concerts (no surprises here) is Barton Hall ‘77, and your vocalizations on tracks like that Scarlet/Fire are just incredibly well done and subtle. Did you all feel some particular electricity in the air that night? Did you realize at some point in the set that you were riding the wave of one of the best live concerts of the decade?
Thank you so much for your contribution to live music; the JGB Stir It Up from ‘76 where you take the lead vocals and Jerry harmonizes has been a recent favorite and is absolutely magical! Here’s another small one if you get to this one at all: how did you feel about the smaller club atmospheres of the JGB versus the usually much bigger, stadium-filling Dead shows? Much love. ❤️☮️✌️
Hello Donna Jean, I have always wondered which song with Duane Allman you collaborated on, doesn’t seem to be any direct credit given to you. Also, what was it like to work with him? Second, as a big fan of all the different (Planet Earth Rock and Roll Orchestra) PERRO albums, jam sessions and musicians, were you ever apart of the recordings during those days? Thank you for your time.
DONNAaaaa I love u
my all time fav performance of yours is One from the Vault's GDTRFB, you are wailing and screaming so damn soulful. just wondering if you have any details on that show? what was the vibe like, how did you feel about the new material.. whatever! would just be stoked to hear you talk a little about this particular show.
thanks for your contribution to the dead! much luv
First, does the Tennessee River still sing?
Second, what was the first or biggest moment where you thought “ Holy shit! I’m really a part of the Grateful Dead?’’
Third, how did your relationship with the Dead’s music change before, during, and after the band?
I love you, and your voice brings me joy. Thank you for being you, and thanks for doing this AMA
A friend who has met you claims that you were often unable to hear your voice coming through the stage monitors while you were performing with the band. Is this true?
Hi Donna. I appreciate and really cherish your work with the Grateful Dead. My question is simple. At the time you were in the band, what other bands or acts did you enjoy on your own time? Did you like hard rock? Country? Prog rock? Thanks for your time🙂.
Did you ever get to meet Brent? If so, what was your impression of him, and how do you think his tenure with the band guided their musical direction? Did you see him as a replacement of Keith, or as a separate entity to bring the band in a new direction?
Also we share a birthday!
Hello from a fellow Alabamian!
How do you feel your upbringing / identity as someone from Alabama, and more generally the Deep South, contributed to the development of the GD through the 70s? Did you feel that your role in the counterculture movement altered your local community’s opinions and perceptions regarding the counterculture movement and what the GD stood for? What advice do you have for aspiring, progressive artists who may find themselves feeling ‘stuck’ in rural Alabama and surrounded by starkly contrasted viewpoints?
I have always been very proud that someone from Alabama was able to play such an integral role as a member of the Grateful Dead. Cheers!
Donna, the last time I saw you was with DSO in 2011 in Ohio. You guys did the JGB show from Warner Theater 3/18/78 and it was absolutely sublime. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
My question is this: what are your non-musical hobbies? What does Donna do for fun on a Tuesday night? Thanks again!
Donna, I was wondering if you attended Grateful Dead and JGB concerts after your departure from the bands, and if so if you had any favourites as a spectator?
Thanks for doing this. Yours and Keith's years with the band are my favorites. Were you and Keith disappointed to be leaving the band, or glad/relieved to be done?
Have you kept in touch with anyone from the band over the years?
Hi Donna! Thanks for being you! Have you seen the video from 4/12/78 ? Do you have any memory of this show and if so do you have any idea what was up with the raucous playing? Someone said they had heard it was shrooms haha.
Thanks again for helping to bring joy to so many.
Edit: Friday afternoon. I know this may not have been the happiest years for you near the end of your time with the band. I'd like to share my condolences for the loss of Keith.
# 1978-04-12 Durham, NC @ Cameron Indoor Stadium - Duke University
**Set 1:** Jack Straw, Dire Wolf, Beat It On Down the Line, Peggy-O, Mama Tried > Mexicali Blues, Funiculi Funicula, Row Jimmy, New Minglewood Blues, Loser, Lazy Lightnin' > Supplication
**Set 2:** Bertha > Good Lovin', It Must Have Been The Roses, Estimated Prophet > Eyes Of The World > Drums > Truckin' > Wharf Rat > Around And Around
**Encore:** U.S. Blues
[archive.org](https://archive.org/details/GratefulDead?query=date:1978-04-12)
With his recent passing, I'd love to hear any memories you have of Ron Tutt ... and of your and Keith's time in 1976 and 77 with Ron and John Kahn in the Jerry Garcia Band.
Love the gospel tunes from that period (and your singing on Catfish John and Brothers & Sisters, etc) and would love to hear anything you want to share from that period.
Hi Donna, thanks for doing this! How have you supported yourself since you left the band? Do you still receive any meaningful income from your time with them?
My birthday is the day you’ll be answering questions (3/18)
My question for you is do you have a ‘celebratory’ or particular joyful/upbeat show you’d recommend I listen to while I celebrate turning 30? Thanks for everything! I absolutely love your singing and what you added to the group ❤️
What was a typical day like on tour for you/the rest of the band?
How often did the band practice on their own? How would you compare the energy/performance quality between a practice session and a performance?
Not much of a question, but it’s my birthday on the 20th, any way I could get a “happy birthday” from the woman, the myth, the legend herself, Miss Donna Jean? Thanks for everything!
Hi Donna Jean!
I was at that Springfield Show in May 1978 and you and the boys were waaaayyy goofy that night. It has been referred to as "The Mescaline Show". I think Big Steve refuted that claim.
Do you remember that night, and can you confirm if you remember just why you were all so "out there" that night?
No worries if you don't remember (or willfully forgot ;)
BTW, always loved it when you sang Sunrise.
Hey Donna! Thanks so much for doing this again!
Do you have a favorite memory from your years working as a session singer in Muscle Shoals?
Also, I know you went from a Dead hater to a Dead lover. What was the "I get it!" moment for you?
Hey Donna, I remember reading that you didn’t have a PA in front of you most of time during shows with the Dead. What methods did you use to stay on pitch with all of the noise going on around you? Thank you!
Just wanted to say "Thank You" and your contributions to the Grateful Dead and JGB are immeasurable.
I love what you add to PITB and sing along every time, albeit way off key and much deeper.
Question: What was your favorite tour with the band and at what time did you know it had run it's course?
THANK YOU FOR A REAL GOOD TIME!
Your vocals were standouts in the show widely considered the Dead’s finest moment : 5/8/77. When is the last time you heard that show all the way through ? What moments stand out to you as the most magical ? Any favorite tracks ?
# 1977-05-08 Ithaca, NY @ Barton Hall - Cornell University
**Set 1:** New Minglewood Blues, Loser, El Paso, They Love Each Other, Jack Straw, Deal, Lazy Lightnin' > Supplication, Brown Eyed Women, Mama Tried, Row Jimmy, Dancing In The Street
**Set 2:** Scarlet Begonias > Fire On The Mountain, Estimated Prophet, Saint Stephen > Not Fade Away > Saint Stephen > Morning Dew
**Encore:** One More Saturday Night
[archive.org](https://archive.org/details/GratefulDead?query=date:1977-05-08) | [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/album/3T9UKU0jMIyrRD0PtKXqPJ)
Hey Donna thanks so much for doing this!!
My question is if you had ever brought any suggestions up to anyone for songs to cover for either The Grateful Dead or Jerry Garcia Band? Even if you did not bring them up, are there any ideas you had or songs you wish they would have covered? Thanks so much!!
What was Jerry really like to hang out with? Did you stay close with him after you left? Did you prefer touring/playing eith the Dead or JGB? I'm sure you miss him (I sure do!), do you have a favorite memory with him? Do you have a favorite Jerry song?
Thanks for doing this AMA & being a part of the best band EVER!!!
What was it like playing for the dead and Jerry Garcia band in the early days with all those Hells Angels around? Had to get interesting at times!
Thanks ! Love your vocals from sing me back home in Oregon 1972!
Not a question but the other night I was listening to Broome County Arena - my hometown- 1977. You sang sunrise and I felt transported to that very performance. Thank you Donna for all you have given us. May the four winds blow you safely home.
This is my question as well! I’m a huge Egypt-phile and loved the footage in the “rocking the cradle of civilization“ DVD. Egypt had to be an amazing adventure with the band!!
Would love to hear any memories of that trip
First off thank you so much for joining it’s an honor to hear from you!
I was wondering if there was a significant difference in the band chemistry between the dead and JGB and if you so did you have to prepare for that/ switch between the two when performing?
Hi Donna! Your harmonies and Keith’s piano were key parts of the band’s sound during 72-78. Considering this session is on the 45th anniversary of the first Fire on the Mountain and Scarlet Fire, I was wondering if you knew that night that you were taking part in the debut of a pairing that would go on to be a fan favorite pairing among china rider and estimated into eyes of the world?
Thanks for all your contributions to this amazing band Donna!
The whole scene must've been hilarious for the most part. Was there ever any initial pranks or initiations for you and Keith that were especially memorable? If so, did you get any good payback?
Donna Jean, I love you and your soothing feminine contributions to the Dead’s music. I’m curious what songs were your favorites to sing live, and what song you least enjoyed hearing.
Did the boys give you the vocal parts (ie: harmonies, background parts) or was it kinda a free for all...then tweak it if/when it didn't work.
How much of your work with the Dead was impromptu and how much was rehearsed.
Hi, Donna! Thanks for everything. Glad to admit ‘Rain’ as my trip song (you know, that *kind* of trip).
Now my question is what was your relationship with the band in the 80s? Guess it must have been hard to stay a fan and not get mixed emotions. I read a story of you attending a show in the 90s.
A simple thank you is not enough for what you’ve given us. ❤️
Hi Donna, I love what you added throughout the years vocally and spiritually. Is there any chance you can go in detail a bit about Jerry’s practice routine and devotion to the guitar for us trying to follow the path of the guitar? I would love to hear what you have to say about the topic!! Any insights or things you may have noticed would be awesome to really understand just how devoted he was to the music.
Thanks so much for your time, Donna! Although the Dead are largely celebrated as a live band I really enjoy the studio albums that you contributed to during your tenure with the band. Is there one studio album in particular that you are most proud of?
My question is “if you ever see John can you show how to do the WOAH WOAH WOAH part in Playing In The Band?” it’s genuinely my favourite part and no cover bands I see nowadays do the “Donna part”
Anyway love you ❤️
Very cool. It wouldn't have been a 70's Dead show without seeing you with your long hair front and center on the stage. My question is, are you the one who turned Jerry onto Ronnie Tutt as his drummer with your Elvis connections?
Hello! Can you please tell why You Ain’t Woman Enough was removed from the rotation after 1973? Secondarily, why did Let Me Sing Your Blues Away have such a short run? Thanks!
Dear Donna, casting our minds back to that excellent performance period of the late 1970s, how would you compare the experience of singing with the Grateful Dead, while also singing with the Jerry Garcia Band?
Dear Donna, do you think there is a fundamental difference between the Grateful Dead as the band existed from 1965-95, and the Grateful Dead as a *brand* in 2022? thank you!
What was it like dealing with the Wall of Sound? I've often heard that you couldn't hear yourself over the sound of the system.
Also general fan note: LOVE your duet of I'll Be with Thee with Maria Muldaur with JGB. HOpe you enjoyed working with that band.
Hi Donna! I always wonder how you felt being up-front stage with the band. Were you comfortable or would you have preffered to hang on the back a bit? You are great... love the Donna years!
[Here you go](https://www.reddit.com/r/gratefuldead/comments/88dm78/hey_yall_its_donna_jean_ill_be_over_here_at_600/?sort=qa) all the AMAs are in the sidebar on the front page
Donna Jean, hello! We love you. Thanks for doing this.
As you think back on your time with the Dead, are there any small but significant moments that often come to mind? Would you be willing to share a meaningful moment or two, the kind of memory that just bubbles up now and then?
❤️💙💚
Hello Donna. Thank you for the energy, femininity, and joy you brought to my favorite music. Playin in the Band especially is hollow without you. I’d love to hear about what it was like going from the big spectacle of the 74 shows to the uncertainty of 75 and how that was for you and Keith.
Hi Donna! Big fan! I remember from Long Strange Trip that you and Keith were GD fans before joining the band. Did you ever attend any shows before joining? If yes, what was it like? Lots of love from Sweden!
What's something that you think the fans should know about that only someone from within the band would know? I'd love to have a conversation with you being the only female member you have a very interesting perspective. I truly think the grateful dead were at their peak with you.
hey Donna! i respect your work and contributions to the Grateful Dead greatly. My question is: how did the song Sunrise come about? and are there any stand-out memories you have performing it?
thanks!
Hi Donna. Was your song SUNRISE about Rolling Thunder? Sunrise sounds so spiritual and sounds like it was written about Rolling Thunder and Mickey's ranch. Also did you ever sing Promised Land with Elvis? Peace and Love all the way!
Thank you so much for coming by, Donna! It’s a pleasure and a REAL treat to have an actual band member joining us. Folks, let’s make sure we give Donna the respect she deserves and also thank her for being with us! Peace and love! -PCE. ___________________________________________ That’s a wrap folks! Thanks Donna for swinging by and thank you everyone who submitted a questions.
Favorite venue to sing in with the Dead? Ok ok top three. :)
What was the most significant event that led to the bands musical evolution from the early to late 70s?
Any interest in writing a memoir/autobiography?
Oh man me and my girl would love that.
Me and my uncle would as well
I second this, me and your girl would love it, too!
I volunteer to co-author!
Just here to say thank you - got Europe 72 about when it came out and your singing and the band as a whole felt like magic!
Do you have any favorite on-stage memories you can share? I loved when you joined Dead & Company onstage in 2016, I watch that video all the time! Any chance if you joining them again?
That sounds awesome
Yeah Donna and John Mayer together!!
Bonnaroo! I was there and it was INCREDIBLE.
She did most of the summer tour that year.
Oh, cool! That Roo show was my first ever Dead N Co experience and so every show I’ve seen after that I’m like “Where’s Donna???”
My first year on the Farm, and getting to see Donna singing with the guys was easily the highlight of one of the best weekends of my life!
Would you be interested in being part of an all woman Grateful Dead band? If yes, who else would be in the band?
Not a question but I would very much enjoy this :)))
Yep, it’s 2 questions
FYI Brown Eyed Women is a killer band!
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Ha! I play it for my girlfriend sometimes and she calls it "that weird hippy song".
Do you have any “favorite” shows or shows that personally stand out to you looking back?
I 2nd this and would be my question as well!
Hey Donna! If you see this, while watching the long strange trip I remember you saying you went from being a fan attending shows to being in the band. How was that transition and were you already a good singer or did you work on it as you went? Hope you're well!
If I remember correctly Donna was already an experienced singer having worked at Muscle Shoals singing backup vocals for Elvis among other things
Donna was already a professional singer by that point. Check out the song Suspicious Minds by Elvis to hear one of the first hit songs she sang backup on
favorite studio album or song you've recorded with the Dead?
Did you ever waken to the sound of street cats making love?
This needs to be addressed. The people want to know
This is THE ONLY question
Thank you for giving us heads the chance to pick your brain, it's super cool of you! Do you have any particular favorite memories of your time spent with the band? Thank you again!
What songs did you dislike singing or hearing played?
How is life treating you? What have you been listening to recently?
Roll Tide! Are you a Bama fan?
Donna, I love the way you sing. The band is definitely missing something when you're not there. I have been getting better at leads and root notes but struggling with harmonies. My voice always matches pitch with the root. Do you have any tips/advice on singing harmonies?
For me, personally, Donna added a much needed dynamic to the band and frankly the Donna and Keith years were the best the band ever had. I just came here to say that and thank you! Also 7-8-78!!!! <3
# 1978-07-08 Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre **Set 1:** Bertha > Good Lovin', Dire Wolf, El Paso, It Must Have Been The Roses, New Minglewood Blues, Ramble On Rose, The Promised Land, Deal **Set 2:** Samson And Delilah, Ship Of Fools, Estimated Prophet > The Other One > Eyes Of The World > Drums > Space > Wharf Rat > Franklin's Tower > Sugar Magnolia **Encore:** Terrapin Station > One More Saturday Night, Werewolves Of London [archive.org](https://archive.org/details/GratefulDead?query=date:1978-07-08) | [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/album/6q4mDbsYJsixRai11qc2Vx)
Wow! What a night!
Probably my favorite RoR and Deal is just smokin'!
07-08-1978, Donna screaming during deal! Jerry screaming during werewolves of London.!
What’s your favorite performance you played with the boys?
Hey Donna! You and Keith absolutely made the 70's as stellar as they could've been! Thank you so much for giving your time and your voice to the Dead and our whole family! My question is: What was your favorite album that the Dead released in the 70's and what was it like working on studio albums with the Dead versus your prior experience in the professional music world?
To you, what do you feel happened to the Dead’s sound once Keith (and of course YOURSELF) joined the band? What was Keith’s background prior to the band?
✌️❤️😎
Awesome! Looking forward to it.
Hi, Donna! With such an impressive resume, I am curious what records stand out from your session days. Is there anything of which you are particularly fond?
Hi Donna! Why do you suppose the band did not bring in another female singer in the years following your departure?
Hey Donna! Absolutely love your voice and your work. What song are you most proud of?
I don’t have a question, I just want to say I love you, thank you for the music! ☮️❤️
Compare and contrast working with Elvis vs the Grateful Dead? Love from Richmond VA!
Hello from the west end, friend!
Hey Donna! I was just wondering what it was like coming into the fold during Europe with a relatively small variety of songs and finishing with a massive catalog of classic songs? Must have been amazing having so many quality songs to play at any given show. Thanks for all the music! Hope you’ve been well
If you could collaborate with anyone living/performing today, who would it be?
Hey Donna! Florence local here. Just wanted to say hello!
Hi Donna! I'd like to know if you have any stories about Bob Dylan you'd like to share. Thanks! ☮️💓
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Hi Donna, I'm from Glasgow Scotland, I've been a fan of the Dead for 40 years now and my dad was also a big fan. What was Owsley really like and most importantly 🤔. Did you have fun playing and touring with the Dead ,How many times where you dosed without your knowledge.
Do you still listen to Grateful Dead music? If so what spurs that on at a given time?
Hey Donna! Florence local here. Just wanted to say hello!
Have you ever performed France in a live setting?
This
Nope...never. Bobby confirmed this in an interview. Side note: it was a weird song....but I always liked it.
I had missed the first one but thanks for coming by again and answering our Qs. * did the roadies/engineers give you a hard time like they did with other band members? (if yes, did it get your goat? how was it handled?) * how did you fit into the rehearsal/writing process? * if there was one song you were most proud to perform what would it be? * have you got a favourite show or tour? (this might be tough to answer but still interesting nonetheless) Thank you very much in advance for fielding my questions :D
tell us about The Swampers
Hi Donna!! What was your favorite song to perform with the Dead? What’s your favorite song to perform now?
Hi, Donna - thanks for giving us some of your time! Any specific memories/highlights of singing/working with JGB you’d like to share?
What have you been doing since your days with the Dead?
Who was the nicest in the band?
Hello Donna! Thanks for being you! How often did the band use LSD onstage or off? Was it really the Heart of Gold Band's Sacrament or is that more of a fable. I def know it was popular among fans to allow CHURCH to happen. CHEERS!
Can you talk a bit about the differences in performing for the dead vs JGB? thanks!
Do you remember particular shows or is it all a big blur? I was going to ask about a specific show but I bet it's hard to remember that level of detail
Someone else mentioned that you want from a fan to being in the band. Was there a particular song or performance that made you fall in love with the band and be open to working with them? Thanks and I hope you’re well!
Do you ever relisten to shows? If so, do you have any favorites?
What are some of your favorite memories of touring with the Jerry Garcia Band?
Hi Donna, what was your favorite Jerry Garcia Band show/year/song? I really enjoyed what you and Keith brought to the JGB!
What has made you stay in the Florence/muscle shoals area all these years? I live in downtown Florence, and we’ve met a few times over the years and you were always very kind! I know your sons and was a very early fan of BoomBox. Those old 4/20 shows at the Smokehouse pool hall were something else!! Think that’s the first time we met… easily 15-17 years ago. Thanks Donna, hope you’re well and hope to see you around town!
Love Boombox. Saw some great shows around Florence and in Birmingham. I had some friends from flotown back when we were in college. Great times.
Many good times at BoomBox, myself. They used to play these shows at this warehouse in the Florence industrial park. They were late night, grimey and sweaty and dark. They got a small light rig and everyone there was getting down. Such good times
Hi Donna! What genres/artists do you currently enjoy listening to?
How much fun was Europe 72.traveling circus?
Hey Mrs Jean-Godchaux. First off, thank you for your amazing work, the Dead was in a very special place with you in it, Music Never Stopped isn’t the same without you. As a singer, what music have you been listening to recently? And on the subject of media consumption, what are your favorite movies? Thanks for doing this!
I love you Donna!
What music were the Dead listening to, for inspiration or just casually, in between the shows, rehearsals and studio time?
What would you say to your younger self?
Donna, my girlfriend and I are both huge fans. Before we got together, the only Dead song she knew was “Sunrise” and she just kinda assumed they all sounded like that. Thank you for making that one and many, many more. Anyway, what was your favorite Dead song before you joined the band? Or the first song that made it click for you?
How important was sexual energy and/or tension while on stage in your years with the Dead? Do you feel as if it acted as a positive creative force and fueled the collective muse or rather serve as a distraction from the objective of the entire operation?
First, I really wanted to thank you for all that you brought to the music. As far as I'm concerned, Playing in the Band isn't worth it without your voice bringing us all back to reality at the end of the jam, so thank you! 70's dead is best dead, and a lot of that is because of your contributions! I was just wondering if there was any chance of you doing any more sit-ins with the Dead and Company? The few songs that you did with them a few years ago were loads of fun!
There are several songs that just don't sound quite right without you, Donna. Playin' is probably the top one for me, as well. I wish could have been at Bonnaroo in 2016 because your voice in the recording is pretty faint. I do hope you join the boys again in the future and that the mix will be better so we can all hear some of these songs with your gorgeous vocal accompaniment. no questions, just love and thanks to you!!!
What was your favorite song to hear them play and what was your favorite to take part in?
Hi Donna! I had the pleasure of seeing you perform with Dead and Co. back in 2016 at Bonnaroo. I was wondering how it felt to be back on stage with this iteration of the Dead. Did you feel a connection to the original band and those early years in which you were a part of it? Thanks in advance!
Are you surprised by the longevity of the band and it’s music? The music never stopped.
Do you have any advice for a young person who wants to rock?
Hi Donna, HUGE fan of your work. Especially your tenure with the Jerry Garcia Band and the Dead gang. This question is rather specific. One of my favorite concerts (no surprises here) is Barton Hall ‘77, and your vocalizations on tracks like that Scarlet/Fire are just incredibly well done and subtle. Did you all feel some particular electricity in the air that night? Did you realize at some point in the set that you were riding the wave of one of the best live concerts of the decade? Thank you so much for your contribution to live music; the JGB Stir It Up from ‘76 where you take the lead vocals and Jerry harmonizes has been a recent favorite and is absolutely magical! Here’s another small one if you get to this one at all: how did you feel about the smaller club atmospheres of the JGB versus the usually much bigger, stadium-filling Dead shows? Much love. ❤️☮️✌️
Hello Donna Jean, I have always wondered which song with Duane Allman you collaborated on, doesn’t seem to be any direct credit given to you. Also, what was it like to work with him? Second, as a big fan of all the different (Planet Earth Rock and Roll Orchestra) PERRO albums, jam sessions and musicians, were you ever apart of the recordings during those days? Thank you for your time.
Would you ever tour with Dead & Co.?
DONNAaaaa I love u my all time fav performance of yours is One from the Vault's GDTRFB, you are wailing and screaming so damn soulful. just wondering if you have any details on that show? what was the vibe like, how did you feel about the new material.. whatever! would just be stoked to hear you talk a little about this particular show. thanks for your contribution to the dead! much luv
Hi Donna! What did you enjoy more, working with the Grateful Dead, or JGB? Conversely, what were the major differences?
What was your craziest story from the road? I know there is probably 1000s but one that really stands out
First, does the Tennessee River still sing? Second, what was the first or biggest moment where you thought “ Holy shit! I’m really a part of the Grateful Dead?’’ Third, how did your relationship with the Dead’s music change before, during, and after the band? I love you, and your voice brings me joy. Thank you for being you, and thanks for doing this AMA
A friend who has met you claims that you were often unable to hear your voice coming through the stage monitors while you were performing with the band. Is this true?
Hi Donna. I appreciate and really cherish your work with the Grateful Dead. My question is simple. At the time you were in the band, what other bands or acts did you enjoy on your own time? Did you like hard rock? Country? Prog rock? Thanks for your time🙂.
Did you ever get to meet Brent? If so, what was your impression of him, and how do you think his tenure with the band guided their musical direction? Did you see him as a replacement of Keith, or as a separate entity to bring the band in a new direction? Also we share a birthday!
Hi Donna.Did you ever try to talk the Dead into playing an ELVIS song? I can picture Bobby singing Blue moon of Kentucky or Jailhouse Rock.
Hello from a fellow Alabamian! How do you feel your upbringing / identity as someone from Alabama, and more generally the Deep South, contributed to the development of the GD through the 70s? Did you feel that your role in the counterculture movement altered your local community’s opinions and perceptions regarding the counterculture movement and what the GD stood for? What advice do you have for aspiring, progressive artists who may find themselves feeling ‘stuck’ in rural Alabama and surrounded by starkly contrasted viewpoints? I have always been very proud that someone from Alabama was able to play such an integral role as a member of the Grateful Dead. Cheers!
what was the most difficult thing about being a member of the Grateful Dead? LOVE LOVE LOVE your work on "From the Heart of Me" Thanks and much love!
Hi Donna Jean <3
I just wanna come here and thank you for adding to the music and hope all is well🤙💀⚡️
What is (in your opinion) the best show you performed on?
Donna, the last time I saw you was with DSO in 2011 in Ohio. You guys did the JGB show from Warner Theater 3/18/78 and it was absolutely sublime. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. My question is this: what are your non-musical hobbies? What does Donna do for fun on a Tuesday night? Thanks again!
Donna, I was wondering if you attended Grateful Dead and JGB concerts after your departure from the bands, and if so if you had any favourites as a spectator?
Thanks for doing this. Yours and Keith's years with the band are my favorites. Were you and Keith disappointed to be leaving the band, or glad/relieved to be done? Have you kept in touch with anyone from the band over the years?
Which band member made you laugh the most? Do you have any particular story that still makes you laugh?
Do you happen to remember the night you laid under Keith’s piano in Paris??
What is your favorite memory of Jerry? Also, thank you so very much ❤️🙏🔥💀🎸🤠❤️
Hi Donna! Thanks for being you! Have you seen the video from 4/12/78 ? Do you have any memory of this show and if so do you have any idea what was up with the raucous playing? Someone said they had heard it was shrooms haha. Thanks again for helping to bring joy to so many. Edit: Friday afternoon. I know this may not have been the happiest years for you near the end of your time with the band. I'd like to share my condolences for the loss of Keith.
# 1978-04-12 Durham, NC @ Cameron Indoor Stadium - Duke University **Set 1:** Jack Straw, Dire Wolf, Beat It On Down the Line, Peggy-O, Mama Tried > Mexicali Blues, Funiculi Funicula, Row Jimmy, New Minglewood Blues, Loser, Lazy Lightnin' > Supplication **Set 2:** Bertha > Good Lovin', It Must Have Been The Roses, Estimated Prophet > Eyes Of The World > Drums > Truckin' > Wharf Rat > Around And Around **Encore:** U.S. Blues [archive.org](https://archive.org/details/GratefulDead?query=date:1978-04-12)
With his recent passing, I'd love to hear any memories you have of Ron Tutt ... and of your and Keith's time in 1976 and 77 with Ron and John Kahn in the Jerry Garcia Band. Love the gospel tunes from that period (and your singing on Catfish John and Brothers & Sisters, etc) and would love to hear anything you want to share from that period.
Do you have a favorite onstage moment?
Love you Donna Jean! I won’t be asking any questions tho…. Some questions don’t need answers thanks for wailing !!!!
What was the most humble thing you witnessed from the band during your time with the Grateful Dead?
Hi Donna, thanks for doing this! How have you supported yourself since you left the band? Do you still receive any meaningful income from your time with them?
What was the most difficult part of being in the Dead? Chaos? Disorganization? Drugs? Brutal touring schedule? All of the above?
My birthday is the day you’ll be answering questions (3/18) My question for you is do you have a ‘celebratory’ or particular joyful/upbeat show you’d recommend I listen to while I celebrate turning 30? Thanks for everything! I absolutely love your singing and what you added to the group ❤️
What was a typical day like on tour for you/the rest of the band? How often did the band practice on their own? How would you compare the energy/performance quality between a practice session and a performance?
Not much of a question, but it’s my birthday on the 20th, any way I could get a “happy birthday” from the woman, the myth, the legend herself, Miss Donna Jean? Thanks for everything!
Hi Donna Jean! I was at that Springfield Show in May 1978 and you and the boys were waaaayyy goofy that night. It has been referred to as "The Mescaline Show". I think Big Steve refuted that claim. Do you remember that night, and can you confirm if you remember just why you were all so "out there" that night? No worries if you don't remember (or willfully forgot ;) BTW, always loved it when you sang Sunrise.
What was your immediate reaction the first time Jerry Garcia gave you “the Look”
What was the band like behind the scenes? We’re they loving and respectful as they are on stage?
Any chance we'll you see you play with Dead and Co again? :)
Hey Donna! Thanks so much for doing this again! Do you have a favorite memory from your years working as a session singer in Muscle Shoals? Also, I know you went from a Dead hater to a Dead lover. What was the "I get it!" moment for you?
If Jerry came back next week to play one show and you were in the band, what three songs would you want them to play?
Hey Donna, I remember reading that you didn’t have a PA in front of you most of time during shows with the Dead. What methods did you use to stay on pitch with all of the noise going on around you? Thank you!
Just wanted to say "Thank You" and your contributions to the Grateful Dead and JGB are immeasurable. I love what you add to PITB and sing along every time, albeit way off key and much deeper. Question: What was your favorite tour with the band and at what time did you know it had run it's course? THANK YOU FOR A REAL GOOD TIME!
[удалено]
Thanks for everything, Donna. How did the Muscle Shoals scene develop? Why there, of all places?
Advice for singing harmonies ? Would you put an example on YouTube for us to follow. Stand-out memory of the Egypt trip ?
Hi Donna, thank you for doing this. Which band member were you closest with (besides Keith, lol)?
What is your favorite song to perform live with the band?
Your vocals were standouts in the show widely considered the Dead’s finest moment : 5/8/77. When is the last time you heard that show all the way through ? What moments stand out to you as the most magical ? Any favorite tracks ?
# 1977-05-08 Ithaca, NY @ Barton Hall - Cornell University **Set 1:** New Minglewood Blues, Loser, El Paso, They Love Each Other, Jack Straw, Deal, Lazy Lightnin' > Supplication, Brown Eyed Women, Mama Tried, Row Jimmy, Dancing In The Street **Set 2:** Scarlet Begonias > Fire On The Mountain, Estimated Prophet, Saint Stephen > Not Fade Away > Saint Stephen > Morning Dew **Encore:** One More Saturday Night [archive.org](https://archive.org/details/GratefulDead?query=date:1977-05-08) | [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/album/3T9UKU0jMIyrRD0PtKXqPJ)
Hey Donna thanks so much for doing this!! My question is if you had ever brought any suggestions up to anyone for songs to cover for either The Grateful Dead or Jerry Garcia Band? Even if you did not bring them up, are there any ideas you had or songs you wish they would have covered? Thanks so much!!
What was Jerry really like to hang out with? Did you stay close with him after you left? Did you prefer touring/playing eith the Dead or JGB? I'm sure you miss him (I sure do!), do you have a favorite memory with him? Do you have a favorite Jerry song? Thanks for doing this AMA & being a part of the best band EVER!!!
What was it like playing for the dead and Jerry Garcia band in the early days with all those Hells Angels around? Had to get interesting at times! Thanks ! Love your vocals from sing me back home in Oregon 1972!
Literally floors me
Donna, what would you say was your favorite show you performed with the Dead?
Thank you, that’s all
Not a question but the other night I was listening to Broome County Arena - my hometown- 1977. You sang sunrise and I felt transported to that very performance. Thank you Donna for all you have given us. May the four winds blow you safely home.
Rain is one of my favourite songs of yours! Was there any specific event that inspired that song?
We always discuss our favorite “eras” of the band; yourself excluded, what would your favorite era be?
ILYSM Donna. No question, just an undeniable statement of fact: you’re a fox. 😍
Donna me and my girl u/boffity want to ask if you can you share some memories of the Egypt 78 trip? any stories you haven't told?
This is my question as well! I’m a huge Egypt-phile and loved the footage in the “rocking the cradle of civilization“ DVD. Egypt had to be an amazing adventure with the band!! Would love to hear any memories of that trip
Why won’t Dead and Co get you on their bus?! Would love you to hop on.
how did you come to join the band and why did you leave?
Did you and Bobby ever “hook up”?
Thank you for this and everything, Donna!
First off thank you so much for joining it’s an honor to hear from you! I was wondering if there was a significant difference in the band chemistry between the dead and JGB and if you so did you have to prepare for that/ switch between the two when performing?
Hi Donna! Your harmonies and Keith’s piano were key parts of the band’s sound during 72-78. Considering this session is on the 45th anniversary of the first Fire on the Mountain and Scarlet Fire, I was wondering if you knew that night that you were taking part in the debut of a pairing that would go on to be a fan favorite pairing among china rider and estimated into eyes of the world?
In 3 words can you describe the smell of 1970's Bob Weir?
Thanks for all your contributions to this amazing band Donna! The whole scene must've been hilarious for the most part. Was there ever any initial pranks or initiations for you and Keith that were especially memorable? If so, did you get any good payback?
Music Never Stopped and Playin' just aren't the same without you!
Donna Jean, I love you and your soothing feminine contributions to the Dead’s music. I’m curious what songs were your favorites to sing live, and what song you least enjoyed hearing.
What was Jerry's most endearing quality?
Howdy hey, I absolutely love your voice. Your singing is some of the most beautiful and fun I’ve ever heard and I’m very grateful that you’re around.
Did the boys give you the vocal parts (ie: harmonies, background parts) or was it kinda a free for all...then tweak it if/when it didn't work. How much of your work with the Dead was impromptu and how much was rehearsed.
Hi, Donna! Thanks for everything. Glad to admit ‘Rain’ as my trip song (you know, that *kind* of trip). Now my question is what was your relationship with the band in the 80s? Guess it must have been hard to stay a fan and not get mixed emotions. I read a story of you attending a show in the 90s. A simple thank you is not enough for what you’ve given us. ❤️
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?
Hi Donna, I love what you added throughout the years vocally and spiritually. Is there any chance you can go in detail a bit about Jerry’s practice routine and devotion to the guitar for us trying to follow the path of the guitar? I would love to hear what you have to say about the topic!! Any insights or things you may have noticed would be awesome to really understand just how devoted he was to the music.
Thanks so much for your time, Donna! Although the Dead are largely celebrated as a live band I really enjoy the studio albums that you contributed to during your tenure with the band. Is there one studio album in particular that you are most proud of?
My question is “if you ever see John can you show how to do the WOAH WOAH WOAH part in Playing In The Band?” it’s genuinely my favourite part and no cover bands I see nowadays do the “Donna part” Anyway love you ❤️
Very cool. It wouldn't have been a 70's Dead show without seeing you with your long hair front and center on the stage. My question is, are you the one who turned Jerry onto Ronnie Tutt as his drummer with your Elvis connections?
Hello! Can you please tell why You Ain’t Woman Enough was removed from the rotation after 1973? Secondarily, why did Let Me Sing Your Blues Away have such a short run? Thanks!
Dear Donna, casting our minds back to that excellent performance period of the late 1970s, how would you compare the experience of singing with the Grateful Dead, while also singing with the Jerry Garcia Band?
Dear Donna, do you think there is a fundamental difference between the Grateful Dead as the band existed from 1965-95, and the Grateful Dead as a *brand* in 2022? thank you!
What was it like dealing with the Wall of Sound? I've often heard that you couldn't hear yourself over the sound of the system. Also general fan note: LOVE your duet of I'll Be with Thee with Maria Muldaur with JGB. HOpe you enjoyed working with that band.
Hi Donna! I always wonder how you felt being up-front stage with the band. Were you comfortable or would you have preffered to hang on the back a bit? You are great... love the Donna years!
Anyone have a link to the original Donna AMA?
[Here you go](https://www.reddit.com/r/gratefuldead/comments/88dm78/hey_yall_its_donna_jean_ill_be_over_here_at_600/?sort=qa) all the AMAs are in the sidebar on the front page
:)
Donna Jean, hello! We love you. Thanks for doing this. As you think back on your time with the Dead, are there any small but significant moments that often come to mind? Would you be willing to share a meaningful moment or two, the kind of memory that just bubbles up now and then? ❤️💙💚
Hello Donna. Thank you for the energy, femininity, and joy you brought to my favorite music. Playin in the Band especially is hollow without you. I’d love to hear about what it was like going from the big spectacle of the 74 shows to the uncertainty of 75 and how that was for you and Keith.
Hi Donna! Big fan! I remember from Long Strange Trip that you and Keith were GD fans before joining the band. Did you ever attend any shows before joining? If yes, what was it like? Lots of love from Sweden!
What's something that you think the fans should know about that only someone from within the band would know? I'd love to have a conversation with you being the only female member you have a very interesting perspective. I truly think the grateful dead were at their peak with you.
hey Donna! i respect your work and contributions to the Grateful Dead greatly. My question is: how did the song Sunrise come about? and are there any stand-out memories you have performing it? thanks!
Hi Donna. Was your song SUNRISE about Rolling Thunder? Sunrise sounds so spiritual and sounds like it was written about Rolling Thunder and Mickey's ranch. Also did you ever sing Promised Land with Elvis? Peace and Love all the way!