John Mayer sat for a lengthy and fascinating interview with Charlie Rose as he readies for his new album The Search for Everything. Of course, the topic flowed to his involvement in Dead & Company about halfway through the talk and Mayer had some interesting reflections on his time with the band. 

Along with Mayer explaining the different approach that he has to take compared to that of being a pop star, Mayer said “the fans are a part of my life, I’m a part of their life. I’m there, not as a star, I’m there to help that crowd to go that place.

“The spiritual side of the Grateful Dead will always be accessible if you get those people together,” he said referring to both the surviving band members and their fans. “Jerry is the most alive dead person that’s ever lived and died. They are keeping him alive.” 

He summed it up by saying, “I will always be part of it and I will always continue doing it.”

Watch the full interview below.