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🌹 “Summertime done come and gone, my oh my”

~U.S. Blues, First performed live: February 22, 1974 at Winterland, San Francisco

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A Note from Michelle & Todd

Hey Now, friends! Welcome to another issue of China Cat Chat — we’re diving into a summer vibe with a nod to U.S. Blues, that irreverent, red-white-and-true classic.

In a time when kindness, compassion, and unity feel more important than ever, we're reminded of the spirit that’s always lived at the heart of this music—and this community.

We’re also thrilled to share that we’re heading to San Francisco this August for the 60th anniversary shows at Golden Gate Park—back where the Dead’s journey began six decades ago in the Haight.

If you’re planning to be there too, let us know! We’re thinking about hosting a China Cat Chat meetup or giveaway while we’re in the city—something fun to celebrate together in person. 🌹⚡

And to help you soak in the history, we’re putting together a free digital download called Dead in the City—a mini walking guide to iconic Dead spots around San Francisco. We’ll share it soon on the website!

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☀️ Summer Vibes & a Soundcheck for the Ages

Before there was Burning Man or Coachella, there was Watkins Glen—a 1973 gathering of over 600,000 free spirits, with the Dead leading the charge. It was one of the largest (and grooviest) concerts in U.S. history, complete with a legendary soundcheck that turned into an impromptu set under the stars.

We dug into this forgotten summer gem for our latest blog post—check it out here:

👉 Let It Shine: The Summer the Dead Took Over Watkins Glen​

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🎨 Artwork of the Issue: Uncle Sam by Stanley Mouse​
This iconic red, white, and Dead image by legendary artist Stanley Mouse is pure psychedelic Americana. With his trademark swirling lines and surreal symmetry, Mouse gives Uncle Sam a freak-flag makeover worthy of a Fourth of July show in the Haight. You’ve probably seen Mouse’s work on classic Dead posters—but his full catalog goes way deeper.

🌀 Explore more of his far-out legacy at: MouseStudios.com​

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☀️ Summer Vibes Playlist​
Turn it up and let it ride—our China Cat Chat Summer Vibes playlist is here to soundtrack your sunshine days and firefly nights. From classic Grateful Dead to Dead & Company’s sweet summer renditions to deep cuts that melt like popsicles on blacktop, this handpicked mix celebrates 60 years of good ol’ Grateful grooves. Whether you’re road-tripping, porch-sitting, or just chasing a ripple in still water, these tunes will keep your soul dancin’. Click Spotify playlist below.

Weekend Playlist

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🌻 Ripple Moment: Cool Kindness in the Heat of Summer​
Summer’s here, and the days are long, bright, and (depending where you are) hot as a fire on the mountain. This season, we’re inviting you to ripple some kindness out into the world in two simple ways:

☀️ First, stash a few cold drinks—sparkling water, lemonade, or something refreshing—in a cooler or tote bag, and offer them to folks working outdoors in the heat: postal workers, garbage collectors, delivery drivers, gardeners, or anyone else who might need a quick cool-down. A simple gesture, but it goes a long way.

📬 Second, send a postcard to someone you haven’t connected with in a while—ideally a Dead-themed one. (Bonus points if you make your own!) Together, these small acts can spark something beautiful. As always, keep the ripple going. NFA 💫 And by the way...we've created a special edition China Cat Chat post card just for you. Click the image to download from the site.

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More soon. Look for next issue in 2 Fridays with a new interview. Stay kind...

Todd & Michelle

​China Cat Chat​

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💌 Got a Story to Share?

We want your tales from the trail! Whether it’s a recipe from Shakedown Street, a memory from the lot, your all-time favorite show, or just a lyric that’s stayed with you—we’d love to hear it. China Cat Chat is for Deadheads, by Deadheads, and your voice makes this community what it is.

We’re also always looking for folks to interview in upcoming issues. If the music has touched your life in a special way, or you’ve got a perspective to share, drop us a line!

Tell Us Your Story | Be Interviewed