Tyler Childers teaming up with Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead? Now that’s a collaboration worth celebrating. In a memorable performance from 2022, Childers joined Weir and his band, the Wolf Bros, to deliver a stunning rendition of “Greatest Story Ever Told.” This song, originally part of Weir’s 1972 solo album, Ace, has long been a staple in his musical repertoire.
The Grateful Dead, in various forms, have been touring since 1965. One of the most popular iterations in recent years is Dead and Company, featuring surviving members Bob Weir, Mickey Hart, and Bill Kreutzmann, with John Mayer stepping in to honor the late Jerry Garcia. The band also includes Oteil Burbridge on bass and Jeff Chimenti on keys, currently performing in Las Vegas.
But let’s focus on the electrifying performance of “Greatest Story Ever Told” by Tyler Childers. When Childers took the stage with Bob Weir and the Wolf Bros, he brought a fresh energy to the classic track. Weir, always generous with his music, handed over the vocals to Childers, who did not disappoint.
Childers’ performance was nothing short of spectacular. His powerful voice and unique style breathed new life into the song, making it a standout moment in the concert. This collaboration showcased Childers’ ability to turn any song into a masterpiece, much like Chris Stapleton.
The concert also featured other memorable performances, including covers of Merle Haggard’s “Mama Tried” and the Grateful Dead’s “Terrapin Station.” These songs are regulars in the Grateful Dead’s setlists, and Childers’ renditions were so impressive that one could easily imagine him becoming a regular guest.
In January 2023, Bob Weir released the audio of “Greatest Story Ever Told” from his 50th-anniversary celebration of Ace, recorded live at New York’s Radio City Music Hall on April 3, 2022. This recording, featuring Tyler Childers on vocals, is part of the expanded deluxe reissue of Weir’s iconic solo album, set to release on January 13, 2023.
The live performance included a stellar lineup of musicians: Don Was, Jay Lane, Jeff Chimenti, Barry Sless, Alex Kelly, Mads Tolling, Adam Theis, Sheldon Brown, and Brian Switzer. Together, they delivered a rendition that highlighted Childers’ vocal prowess and the ensemble’s musical expertise.
For those who missed the live performance, the official recording is now available on streaming platforms. This release is a testament to the enduring appeal of Weir’s music and the fresh energy that artists like Tyler Childers bring to it.
The 50th-anniversary edition of Ace includes all eight original tracks and more, celebrating the album’s legacy. Songs like “Playing in the Band,” “Black-Throated Wind,” and “One More Saturday Night” have become live staples for the Grateful Dead, and this reissue brings them back into the spotlight.
The Radio City Music Hall performance was a highlight of the anniversary celebration, with Childers’ vocals adding a new dimension to “Greatest Story Ever Told.” The concert also featured other standout moments, such as Barry Sless’ pedal steel guitar on “Black-Throated Wind” and Weir’s guitar solo on “Mexicali Blues.”
This collaboration between Tyler Childers and Bob Weir is a perfect example of how timeless music can be reimagined and revitalized by new generations of artists. The live recording from Radio City Music Hall captures the magic of that night, offering fans a chance to relive the experience.
In summary, Tyler Childers’ performance with Bob Weir and the Wolf Bros was a remarkable moment in music history. The release of the live recording from the 50th-anniversary celebration of Ace allows fans to enjoy this unforgettable collaboration. With Childers’ powerful vocals and the band’s expert musicianship, “Greatest Story Ever Told” has never sounded better.
