From Deadheads to Ravers: Grateful Dead Guitarist Warren Haynes and EDM Producer Skrillex Talk Tours



Warren Haynes' legendary guitar talents have been commemorated as a member of The Grateful Dead - a band that launched as festival culture had begun to take its free-spirited shape. Today, EDM producer Skrillex is identified as one of EDM culture's most iconic personalities. The six-time Grammy winner has performed live DJ sets before crowds of godly proportions at countless dance music festivals across the globe. On November 14, 2013 the two will participate in "Golden Road: Lessons Learned From The Dead" – an expert panel addressing The Dead’s timeless influence on the touring industry.

Both musicians have lived during veritable golden ages for live music; and in the mid-60s to early 70s The Dead set precedents for the fan-to-artist experience that has helped to make the $20 billion dollar EDM industry what it is today. The original jam band was the first to set high standards for fan experience, community building, as well as tour recording.  

“Golden Road: Lessons From The Dead” will take a closer glimpse at the evolution of concert culture since the days when The Dead's legendary movement was on the brink. Moreover, the event will discuss approaches to fan engagement and the live experience that artists like Skrillex have ushered in for today's generation.

“There is a lot to be learned from The Grateful Dead, and this session will feature not only the people who were there as the band blazed the trail, but also artists and touring pros who are taking these practices to a new level in this age of information,” Ray Waddell, Billboard’s executive director of content and programming, touring and live entertainment, said in a statement. “This is the type of session one could not see anywhere else, and we’re proud to host it at our 10th annual Conference."

Musical worlds will collide upon Haynes’ and Skrillex’s appearance for “Golden Road” during the 10th Annual Billboard Touring Conference & Awards. The event will take place on November 13-14 at New York City’s Roosevelt Hotel.