The live experience
What reaches the room
Bob's Heart of Gold Band traces its roots to the post-Grateful Dead era, formed in 1980 by Keith Godchaux and Donna Jean Godchaux after their departure from the Grateful Dead. The band carried forward the soulful, extended jam-rock spirit that characterized the late 70s/early 80s scene, releasing material across the 1980s through the 2000s and maintaining a dedicated following among Dead/Grateful Dead circles. Although activity has been sporadic since the 2004 reformation, the band remains a touchstone for fans exploring the tributary paths of the Grateful Dead legacy. Donna Jean Godchaux’s passing in November 2025 marks a poignant moment for ongoing ties to the Heart of Gold archive and future performances. Here you’ll find a concise biography, notable discography highlights, and the latest on touring and appearances in the context of the wider Bay Area and coastal music communities in California.