Photo: Garret Dorfman/ Evan Robertson

Last night, a unique event unfolded at Seattle’s Moore Theatre as the bluegrass greats gathered to celebrate David “Dawg” Grisman’s 80th birthday. The eclectic assemblage of family, friends, and longtime collaborators, known for their unwavering devotion to the genre, made it a night to remember by bringing out surprise guests, debuting new material, and other impactful moments that filled out the performance. 

The night’s initial offering was a profoundly personal journey led by Sam Grisman, Dawg’s son and torchbearer of his beloved brand of music. He was joined by longtime collaborators and pals Ronnie McCoury, Dominick Leslie, Alex Hargreaves, and surprise guest Billy Strings. 

The ensemble worked through an extensive offering of instrumentals, from the Eat My Dust-abbreviated “E.M.D” to the 1970s-era arrival, the self-titled “Dawg’s Rag.” The group diligently built a collection of material that paid homage to Dawg’s inarguable impact on bluegrass and its current generation of innovators. 

Additional friends helped out during selections, including cellist Nat Smith, who ascended on fan favorite, “Bow Wow.” The heavy offering of instrumentals also featured guitarist Grant Gordy on “Tipsy Gypsy.” Dawg eventually joined the first set of contributors, adding to “Hartford’s Real” and “Del & Dawg” (watch fan-shot videos below).

Later, during the concert’s second half, Dawg took center stage and introduced the packed house to new material, much of which he regarded as COVID-19-era compositions. The mandolinist also delivered seasoned plays that alluded to his extensive history and figurehead status amongst the bluegrass community. 

Watch videos from last night’s performance and Sunday’s preliminary show.

Dawg at 80, Moore Theatre in Seattle, March 25, 2025.

David Grisman: Reflections at 80, Field Arts & Events Hall in Port Angeles, Wash., March 23, 2025.