Supporting Tom Constanten: A Fundraising Campaign for a Grateful Dead Legend
A fundraising campaign has been initiated to assist former Grateful Dead keyboardist Tom Constanten with his medical expenses. Constanten, who retired from touring in 2024, was a key member of the band from 1968 to 1970. He contributed to albums such as Anthem Of The Sun, Aoxomoxoa, and Live/Dead, providing his keyboard skills to the group.
Tom Constanten, also known as T.C., joined the Grateful Dead to support the ailing Ron “Pigpen” McKernan and shared keyboard duties with him. His final performance with the band took place in New Orleans in 1970, a night that became infamous for the band's encounter with the law on Bourbon Street. Despite not being arrested, Constanten did not continue with the band after that night.
After his time with the Grateful Dead, Constanten continued to collaborate with various musicians and bands, including Terrapin Flyer, Jazz Is Dead, Jefferson Starship, and more. He recently concluded his farewell tour with Live Dead & Brothers, featuring members from the Grateful Dead and The Allman Brothers Band families, performing music from the late '60s to early '70s.
In a recent message, Constanten shared his current situation and the need for support, prompting the launch of the GoFundMe campaign by Greg Martens. Those interested in learning more about Tom Constanten's story and contributing to his medical expenses can visit the GoFundMe page dedicated to him.