John Dawson
June 16, 1945 – July 21, 2009
John Dawson was a co-founder and leader of New Riders Of The Purple Sage, a psychedelic country rock band that made the scene during San Francisco’s scene of the ’60s. By the early ’70s, Dawson formed the New Riders with Dave Nelson, with it’s original line up including Garcia, Phil Lesh and Mickey Hart. Dawson guested on a handful of Dead albums, including Workingman’s Dead and American Beauty. He also co-wrote their classic “Friend of the Devil.” New Riders continued well into the ’90s with Dawson calling it quits in 1997. The band was resurrected by Nelson in 2005 with Dawson making guest appearances at a some shows. John Dawson died of stomach cancer at the age of 64.
Made me feel sad watching this. I still listen to NRPS, even after 40years!!. I also keep John's great songs alive by performing them at open mic venues. Such an underrated band from the West Coast genre. Good to know that Dave Nelson is keeping the music alive and still playing, along with one of the best pedal steel guitar players, Buddy Cage. Hard to believe it's been over 5years since John's passing. Will get to visit San Francisco again, one day!
Made me feel sad watching this. I still listen to NRPS, even after 40years!!. I also keep John’s great songs alive by performing them at open mic venues. Such an underrated band from the West Coast genre. Good to know that Dave Nelson is keeping the music alive and still playing, along with one of the best pedal steel guitar players, Buddy Cage. Hard to believe it’s been over 5years since John’s passing. Will get to visit San Francisco again, one day!