As the Grateful Dead searches for a new keyboardist following the untimely passing of Brent Mydland, Vince Welnick prepares for the opportunity of a lifetime. In Episode 5, “The Audition,” we follow Vince’s emotional and intense journey from hopeful contender to official member of one of the world’s most iconic bands.

Vince’s widow, Laurie Welnick, offers a deeply personal look at how Vince prepared for the audition and the weight of waiting for the call. We also hear from Tubes frontman Fee Waybill, Michele Rundgren, Mike Duffy, and  Bobby Strickland as they reflect on Vince’s talent and perseverance, and Bob Bralove offers insights into Vince's mental state going into the rehearsal process. At the same time, Grateful Dead publicist Dennis McNally provides historical context for the moment. Archival clips from Bob Weir and Vince Welnick himself capture the raw emotion of the moment Vince got the gig.
This pivotal chapter in Vince’s story highlights both the promise and pressure of joining the Dead, as well as the quiet strength that helped him seize the chance.

Next week is the final episode.


Laurie Welnick
Fee Waybill
Todd Rundgren
Bobby Strickland
MicheleRundgren
The Tapes Archive
Mike Duffy
Bob Bralove
Dennis McNally
David Gans

This project is made possible with funds from the Statewide Community Regrant Program, a regrant program of the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature and administered by GO ART!