On September 3rd, 1977, the Grateful Dead played one of their most legendary concerts at Raceway Park in Englishtown, New Jersey. The show drew an astonishing crowd of approximately 150,000 people, creating the largest audience the state had ever seen for a concert. This event wasn't just a show; it was a monumental gathering that would become a defining moment in the history of the Grateful Dead and rock music.
The Scene and The Crowd
The traffic leading to Englishtown was a spectacle in itself. Deadheads from across the country descended upon the small town, creating miles-long traffic jams that stretched as far as the eye could see. The sheer number of people turning up for the concert was unprecedented, and the atmosphere was one of excitement, camaraderie, and anticipation. This wasn’t just a concert; it was a cultural phenomenon, with Raceway Park transforming into a vibrant temporary city teeming with life and energy.
Opening acts New Riders of the Purple Sage and The Marshall Tucker Band got the crowd warmed up, each delivering stellar performances that built the momentum for what was to come. But when the Grateful Dead took the stage, it was clear that the day belonged to them.
Set 1: A Perfect Opening
The Grateful Dead opened with “Promised Land,” setting the tone for the evening with its driving beat and energetic delivery. The crowd, already buzzing with anticipation, erupted as the first notes rang out. The band quickly followed with “They Love Each Other,” a laid-back groove that showcased Jerry Garcia’s fluid guitar work and the band’s tight-knit chemistry.
“Me & My Uncle” brought a dose of Western storytelling to the mix, its fast pace keeping the energy high. The highlight of the first set, however, was the beautiful rendition of “Mississippi Half-Step Uptown Toodeloo,” which seamlessly transitioned into “Looks Like Rain,” with Bob Weir’s soulful vocals and the band’s dynamic interplay.
The first set continued with “Peggy-O,” a heartfelt ballad that showed off Garcia’s emotional depth, and then picked up the pace with a fiery “New Minglewood Blues.” The crowd was fully engaged, dancing and singing along as the band continued to build the energy.
“Friend of the Devil” was a moment of collective joy, with the crowd joining in on the chorus, followed by a powerful rendition of “The Music Never Stopped,” which closed the set with a burst of energy and left the audience craving more.
Set 2: The Peak of the Experience
The second set began with “Bertha,” immediately igniting the crowd with its upbeat rhythm and infectious energy. The transition into “Good Lovin’” kept the momentum going, with Weir leading the charge and the band firing on all cylinders.
“Loser” followed, bringing a darker, bluesy tone to the set, before the band launched into the epic duo of “Estimated Prophet” and “Eyes of the World.” This was the heart of the show, where the band truly let loose, exploring new musical territories and taking the audience on a cosmic journey. The seamless transition into “Samson & Delilah” was a high point, with the band delivering a powerful, rhythmic performance that had the crowd in a frenzy.
After “Samson & Delilah,” the band took a brief break, leaving the crowd in suspense. When they returned, they launched into “He’s Gone,” a poignant and soulful rendition that gradually evolved into a deep and exploratory jam session. This jam eventually gave way to a thunderous “Not Fade Away,” which had the entire audience clapping and singing along, the energy building to a fever pitch.
The set closed with a rollicking “Truckin’,” a perfect choice that captured the spirit of the day—an anthem for the road-weary travelers who had made the journey to Englishtown. But the band wasn’t done yet.
Encore: A Fitting Finale
The encore, “Terrapin Station,” was the ideal way to close out this monumental show. The intricate, layered composition was performed with precision and passion, showcasing the band’s musical sophistication and their ability to tell a story through music. It was a fitting finale to a day that had already become legendary.
Legacy and Impact
The Englishtown show stands as a pinnacle in the Grateful Dead’s storied career. The combination of the massive crowd, the electric atmosphere, and the band’s inspired performance has ensured that this concert is remembered as one of their greatest. The recording of this show continues to be celebrated by fans, capturing the magic of that day and the sheer power of the Grateful Dead at their best.
For those who were there, September 3rd, 1977, in Englishtown, New Jersey, remains a defining moment—a day when the music, the crowd, and the moment all came together to create something truly special. And for those who listen to the recordings, it is a timeless reminder of the magic that was the Grateful Dead.
