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Phish to Headline Bonnaroo 2009, Sources Say

12/16/08, 9:45 am EST

Photo: Getty

Bonnaroo, the East Coast’s premiere multi-day, multi-stage gathering of the vibes (held in Manchester, Tennessee from June 11th to 14th) usually doesn’t release its lineup until early February — but RollingStone.com hears from reliable sources close to Phish that the band will top the bill for two nights, restoring the fest to its jam-friendly roots. It would be the fifth time frontman Trey Anastasio appears on the ‘Roo stage, having performed as a solo artist in 2002 and 2004, with bandmate Mike Gordon in 2006 and alongside Matisyahu in 2005. Phish announced their official reunion and first public gigs in four years (their March 6-9th Hampton, Virginia shows) in early October; reps for the band and the fest declined comment for this story. Also being buzzed about with some legitimacy: Bruce Springsteen as Sunday night’s closer. No pressure, but there is a deadline approaching for pre-sale tickets and VIP packages.

As for Coachella, the fest reputed for reuniting many a dormant band (the Pixies in 2004, Rage Against the Machine in 2007), Blur is believed to be a frontrunner, though a show scheduled for London’s Hyde Park in July raises some doubt — would the Brits really forestall a comeback gig on their home turf for a U.S. one-off jaunt? We think it’s more likely Britney Spears would pull off a dance tent set, a la Madonna in 2006. (And wouldn’t you know it, Britney is off on Coachella Saturday, April 18th, between tour stops in Los Angeles and Anaheim.) Other artists currently looking at routing dates around the three-day party in the desert include Coachella vets Red Hot Chili Peppers as well as the Pretenders, the Killers, Keane and We Are Scientists.

Related Stories:

Photos: Phish Through the Years

Phish Reunite, Plan Virginia Concerts for March 2009

Bonnaroo News, Photos, Reports and More on RollingStone.com


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Comments

High School Grad | 12/16/2008, 10:18 am EST

Great news! Since when is Tennessee on the East Coast?

stuporfly | 12/16/2008, 10:51 am EST

Blur are already planning a number of shows prior to their July dates at Hyde Park as sort of a warm-up. Coachella is obviously much earlier than that, though I’d love to see it happen.

JV | 12/16/2008, 10:59 am EST

FIRST!

ph1sh.com pwns.

Sneed | 12/16/2008, 11:00 am EST

BRING A CAN OF FOOD TO MY SHOWS… PLEASE, I NEED THIS

Mountain_Momma | 12/16/2008, 11:01 am EST

now i can go on to0r all pregnant and shit

does anyone have any cell phone minutes to spare?

shawncarter | 12/16/2008, 11:03 am EST

meh.

Mountain_Mama | 12/16/2008, 11:09 am EST

I would like to take this opportunity to steal YP88’s cellphone, and also to let him know that I gave him HPV.

sneakins | 12/16/2008, 11:11 am EST

told you assholes so

blackjeep | 12/16/2008, 11:16 am EST

will trade meth and a beej in the holler for a piece of your wristband

Reginald Smet | 12/16/2008, 11:29 am EST

Barf on a stick.

linusj | 12/16/2008, 11:33 am EST

WORST IDEA EVER

and i’m a die hard phan

Jackson Sneed | 12/16/2008, 11:44 am EST

My tour dates overlap bonnaroo, go to my site and check them out!

WTF?! | 12/16/2008, 11:47 am EST

Please dont do it Phish! Please !!!

Jaded_Vet | 12/16/2008, 11:57 am EST

ugh.

shesmysister | 12/16/2008, 12:04 pm EST

miami piper > gin and juice to open!!!

phil97 | 12/16/2008, 12:08 pm EST

so sad…..yet another thing we can blame on dubya….

D-Flizz | 12/16/2008, 12:09 pm EST

I thought it was a joke, too, when they said Bonnaroo was an East-Coast Festival… and the Boss!!! That’s a great headlining festival, in my opinion! The thing is, Phish festivals alone draw more people than Bonnaroo can hold! Gonna be a crazy one!

dasclyde | 12/16/2008, 12:18 pm EST

can I get sources guy

Uncle Zev | 12/16/2008, 12:21 pm EST

Panic Sucks

Mr. Green | 12/16/2008, 12:42 pm EST

On behalf of every phan, PLEASE DON’T BE TRUE!

I sincerely hope Phish Inc. isn’t that stupid.

lola | 12/16/2008, 12:43 pm EST

panic does suck

Yankeephan88 | 12/16/2008, 12:54 pm EST

i love boys now.

Eddie | 12/16/2008, 12:56 pm EST

Bonnaroo is nothing like a Gathering of the Vibes!
Gathering of the Vibes = heady fest
Bonnaroo = Swag fest

borat | 12/16/2008, 1:02 pm EST

love the extra day in hampton! thanks rolling stone mag! you must have been out of your element not reporting on britney spears.

Jackson Sneed | 12/16/2008, 1:05 pm EST

I just sold 10 more albums!

Hemperor | 12/16/2008, 1:22 pm EST

Worst Festival Ever…

Chongg | 12/16/2008, 1:25 pm EST

am i allowed to cross state lines after my felony child abuse charge?

whatever, i’ll just play hotshots golf if not

shesmysister | 12/16/2008, 1:26 pm EST

Does anybody know what hotel Trey is likely to stay at?

ski2bfree | 12/16/2008, 1:29 pm EST

The web bots predicted this.

Myxomatosis | 12/16/2008, 1:31 pm EST

Great…the most crowded festival around is going to get even worse with a bunch of smelly Phish phans.

and I love phish.

Jargon! | 12/16/2008, 1:33 pm EST

BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN FUCKING BLOWS!

Jargon! | 12/16/2008, 1:35 pm EST

Bruce Springsteen is a HORRIBLE closer.

the mad hatter | 12/16/2008, 1:38 pm EST

all the wookies will converge at roo for phish, fear the wookie!

lame! | 12/16/2008, 1:38 pm EST

i agree….worst possible scenario EVER! Did the smack really mess with their heads that badly? First the Hampton scalper debacle and now selling out to bonnaroo. Say it aint so! I try and stay as far away from the roo as humanly possible.

Bob | 12/16/2008, 1:44 pm EST

Bring on the WOOKS!!!

Brew | 12/16/2008, 1:48 pm EST

Quit your bitchin people.

vinnie | 12/16/2008, 1:50 pm EST

I’m excited now, but let’s see what else they announce before I commit to a crazy festie like ‘roo.

CAMP CUSTIE ‘09

shesmysister | 12/16/2008, 2:00 pm EST

Now that its official I’m not going. I missed it. My generation needs another Phish. They are obviously just going to hit up the big festivals and I’m not going to be allowed to go in my shitty Lexus. Its all about me and they fucked it up. I’m done. i hate music. bye world.

Assface | 12/16/2008, 2:06 pm EST

Is this as reliable as the Led Zeppelin rumor from last year?

NuggJugg | 12/16/2008, 2:08 pm EST

Phish is gonna end the 2nd day with “Don’t Fear The Wookie”.

Jackson Sneed | 12/16/2008, 2:09 pm EST

Also announced today, but clearly missed by Rolling Stone, I will be playing the comedy tent during Bonnaroo 2009.

It will be the funniest set of all of ‘Roo.

Mr. Minor | 12/16/2008, 2:12 pm EST

Is this as reliable as the Led Zeppelin rumor from last year?

matt gregg | 12/16/2008, 2:20 pm EST

Wouldn’t “the East Coast’s premiere multi-day, multi-stage gathering of the vibes” actually be “Gathering of the Vibe’s” in Bridgeport, CT??????

C’Mon Shirley Halperin. I do not believe this article.

phunkalarm | 12/16/2008, 2:32 pm EST

Pretty lame idea on Phish’s end…not stoked about it at all

phunkalarm | 12/16/2008, 2:36 pm EST

Pretty lame idea on phish’s end…not stoked

landa321 | 12/16/2008, 2:38 pm EST

I don’t know why, but I believe him.

newbalupalous | 12/16/2008, 2:42 pm EST

Phudge, everytime I go to this fest I think “that was fun, but I ain’t coming back.” Well, if we get a Phish headline>Mars Volta late night. ::creams pants:: I’m there. And where else could you get something like that but at the ROO. That’s why I’m fine w/ the idea.

what | 12/16/2008, 2:52 pm EST

You all belong on the short bus. It doesn’t matter where they play, only that they do play. Phish is the only band that can create a grateful dead type traveling community. It’s a magical thing if you’ve ever been. So enjoy it, don’t destroy it.

Complaint Vampire | 12/16/2008, 2:55 pm EST

Please people.

I have only been to bonnaroo once, but it was an incredible time. I saw over 100 phish shows, and I had fun at every single one. Of course there will be logistical problems, like every concert, but this would be an incredible place for phish to play. This is excactly the environment that Phish’s music thrives on. When they play in this environment, they can relax, and thats when the magic happens. They dont want to plan and exceute another festival on thier own. Its a nightmare. If you decide not to go, because of ignorance, you will surely miss out.

what | 12/16/2008, 3:01 pm EST

Right on!

hot portilets | 12/16/2008, 3:04 pm EST

i’m imagining those rows of portilets over flowing with crap and piss baking in the 120 degree weather. I can almost smell it now! What a dream come true! That astronaut lady had the right idea with her diapers…i think she was at roo ‘03!

Gerald Cunalt | 12/16/2008, 3:05 pm EST

What the hell is a bonnaroo? Is it some sort of theater?

unattended partial | 12/16/2008, 3:06 pm EST

It could work — think about it for a minute. Logistically it would be very easy for Phish to play Roo. All they would need to do is show up w/ their instruments, unlike their previous summer festivals where they had massive amounts of production and overhead. I’m all for it…and the Sunday night Bruce set!

glad they're doing something | 12/16/2008, 3:06 pm EST

Phish has made a good decision IMO. They can make this fest cool again. I’m glad to see Roo is turning back to the jam. Especially after Langerado sold out to Death Cab and Dashboard Confessional.

glad they're doing something | 12/16/2008, 3:07 pm EST

Phish has made a good decision IMO. They can make this fest cool again. I’m glad to see Roo is turning back to the jam. Especially after Langerado sold out to Death Cab and Dashboard Confessional.

glad they're doing something | 12/16/2008, 3:07 pm EST

Phish has made a good decision IMO. They can make this fest cool again. I’m glad to see Roo is turning back to the jam. Especially after Langerado sold out to Death Cab and Dashboard Confessional.

glad they're doing something | 12/16/2008, 3:07 pm EST

Phish has made a good decision IMO. They can make this fest cool again. I’m glad to see Roo is turning back to the jam. Especially after Langerado sold out to Death Cab and Dashboard Confessional.

mrknowitall | 12/16/2008, 3:07 pm EST

I told everyone a month ago!

no room for anger | 12/16/2008, 3:51 pm EST

bonnaroo is always different. the jam years were my favorite. phish could put on a festival of this size on their own. Buy your tickets now so it’ll sell out and keep out all the agro metal head dopers out of the scene.

Col. Forbin | 12/16/2008, 3:59 pm EST

blogs on phantasytour.com do not constitute sources close with the band. Get a clue RS and do some legitimate journalism.
And, if by chance you are right, and phish does play the bonnerzoo…so it goes…make yo paper boo boo.
See you when the Circus Comes to Town…PhishTour ‘09…gonna get that fo sho.

Ship of Thrills | 12/16/2008, 4:04 pm EST

Kids, adults, people. Jobs are not what life’s about. Living is what life is about. When Phish hits the road again, join them. There is plenty of money to made on tour – even legally. Don’t wait. Life is fleeting. Hit the road, if only for a couple of weeks. Just go and play and always remember that come January its December. Age waits for no one, party down while you can. Don’t think about it just do it, it’ll be ok. Go now and live.

BOUNCIN ROUND THE ROOM | 12/16/2008, 4:11 pm EST

I do not recommend sex, drugs, and violence to anyone, but they’ve always worked for me.

Paraphrased HST.

Find or lose yourself on tour. Go see Phish and eat the brown acid.

BOUNCIN ROUND THE ROOM | 12/16/2008, 4:11 pm EST

I do not recommend sex, drugs, and violence to anyone, but they’ve always worked for me.

Paraphrased HST.

Find or lose yourself on tour. Go see Phish and eat the brown acid.

CHONG | 12/16/2008, 4:25 pm EST

HAS ANYONE HEARD IF THE FELON TENT WILL BE BACK THIS YEAR

broober | 12/16/2008, 4:32 pm EST

i’ve been all 7 years and never heard of the felon tent.

broober | 12/16/2008, 4:36 pm EST

ahh the felon tent. it’ll be there.

Intrepid Albatross | 12/16/2008, 5:15 pm EST

PHISH @ the Roo??? LAME!

PHISH needs to have their own fest in New England… or if they are going to bother to play a festi with other acts they should make it a cool one like Rothsbury or something

Bonnaroo SUX!!!!!! Eff the corporate dogs

PLEASE NO!!!! | 12/16/2008, 5:44 pm EST

PHISH PLEASE DON’T DO IT!! HAVE ANOTHER ONE OF YOUR OWN IN LIMESTONE, AUGUST ‘09!!!!

whosoldthasoul? | 12/16/2008, 6:13 pm EST

I think Bruce would be a great closer. I’m done with broken records. Jam bands are great but Bruce represents the actual working man. Plus I respect what he does for the music industry. If you don’t like him go watch Brittany Spears on the WHO GIVES A DAMN STAGE!!!!!!!

whosoldthasoul? | 12/16/2008, 6:21 pm EST

See Phish for only $250 plus many more bands at Bonnaroo or pay $500 to see them in Limestone*******

Ryan | 12/16/2008, 6:37 pm EST

For those who think Phish can sell such an outrageous amount of tickets that Bonnaroo can’t handle them, you are very wrong. Yes Phish HAS drawn as many people as Roo can hold but not with such an expensive ticket, and they’ve also played longer and more sets so their fans are much more likely to go to a Phish fest than Bonnaroo. Still, they will draw a lot of fans, but if Metallica can play Bonnaroo, so can Phish. And i fucking hate Metallica, just making a point.

PHISH 09′

Nolan | 12/16/2008, 6:44 pm EST

i love how the premiere east coast “gathering of the vibes” is ‘roo and NOT THE GATHERING OF THE VIBES, a festival of the same name, held in NY.

i do think with phish there, a lot of brown will be going around, but it wont be l

Marley | 12/16/2008, 7:47 pm EST

any phish period… i can dig it. quit doin the roo a few years back, BUT if the boys play 2 nights and (insert crossed fingers) the Dead close the weekend…i’ll pay and it’ll be a stone cold gas man. train dodge, dig it.

Kess Rock (Gamehendge or Bust) | 12/16/2008, 8:59 pm EST

I would be totally stoked if they played Rothbury ‘09 instead (Hell they practically reunited there last year on my birthday). But, if they play Roo ‘09 I definitly my the 15 hr. journey to see the boys (thus breaking my promise never to go back after the 1st 4). I guess i could be a super senior for Phish.

So I guess all i can say in that case is…

“Baby wont u carry me… Back to Tennessee!”

Mr. Hand | 12/16/2008, 11:05 pm EST

What are you people – on dope?

Shwillinger | 12/17/2008, 12:02 am EST

My first inclination is that this is rediculous considering they can sell out an event this size on their own. But then I got to thinking, maybe they want to do this so the pressure isnt placed so squarely on them. Maybe they don’t want to feel they have to be the only ones who were either responsible for everyones good times or bad times. Maybe they like the thought of being able to play with their solo projects all in the same event, or drop in and play with a different band. Way less pressure and probably much more fun for everyone in the band to get to stretch out and be themselves, shed the weight of being Phish so that when they actually do play together , they can have more fun than they were having and not be afraid to take the risks we all have come to appreciate. Sure there’ll be lots of people who you wouldnt typically see at a phish show. But at some point in your life, weren’t we all there, not realizing how amazing this was, just waiting for you to discover it? Let them be, let it go, and don’t hold them up so high to the point they can’t be themselves anymore. See you there, or not.

Justin | 12/17/2008, 1:21 am EST

Anyone who doesn’t like or at least repsect Springsteen is a moron.

Justin | 12/17/2008, 1:23 am EST

Anyone who doesnt like or at least respect Springsteen is a moron.

shoegaze45 | 12/17/2008, 2:09 am EST

Britney Spears?!? The end of Coachella as we know it. Goldenvoice take note that your festival is in need of better branding with artist associations (aka less mainstream headliners).

Stewart | 12/17/2008, 4:05 am EST

I would rather have a sick dog fart on my face than see the Boss strut around like a prophet/moron.

Duh | 12/17/2008, 8:44 am EST

hey should make it a cool one like Rothsbury or something

Bonnaroo SUX!!!!!! Eff the corporate dogs

Except that the same people organize Rothbury as Bonnaroo…. OOPS!!! Dumbass.

dedphish | 12/17/2008, 9:00 am EST

Phish should play the 1st ever Vineland (NJ) Fest instead!!!

wow | 12/17/2008, 9:45 am EST

this is awful.

Ryan | 12/17/2008, 10:20 am EST

Better Phish than Metallica

JAM BANDS FTW

Rodge | 12/17/2008, 11:32 am EST

This is horrible. Phish for two nights is terrible. The Boss is terrible. Unless the undercard is as good as last year, FUCK BONNAROO

gr8deadphish | 12/17/2008, 11:56 am EST

Its funny that everyone seems to know what phish SHOULD do. If you think Phish or ‘roo (or the combo) is lame don’t go. It’s that simple. And how do a bunch of random bloggers know more about festie logistics than those who have run it for years? Trust me, anything you’ve suggested, they’ve considered and tossed out. Going to these shows or festies, we all know what we’re in for so suck it up or miss your chance to see a great band.

gr8deadphish | 12/17/2008, 11:58 am EST

Additionally, Peace, love, and rock!

Anonymous | 12/17/2008, 12:28 pm EST

It would make more sense for Phish to play Gathering of the Vibes

Tyler | 12/17/2008, 12:43 pm EST

Anyone upset about this should get the fuck away from Roo. You’re shitty punk bands have no place there.

McLovins | 12/17/2008, 12:48 pm EST

McLovins should play

bonna-loo | 12/17/2008, 1:17 pm EST

kanye west is opening for them on day 1. Then Miley Cyrus and the Jonas brothers will open for them on day 2. Bonnaroo was so cool like 8 years ago. Way to sell out boys! welcome back!

wharf rat | 12/17/2008, 1:27 pm EST

Bonnaroo SUX!!!!!! Eff the corporate dogs

Roo is not corporate like the almost all other music promotions. Perhaps you people should go and see what its all about. Thanks to you guys who support this type of event. People are making music and trying to provide good times. These things do not just appear out of no where. Perhaps some of you are new to the scene and take what is availble for granted. Just go to the show and play. Stop bitching, because all you’re doing is putting a negative tone on the music scene. Just have fun and think good thoughts.

wharf rat | 12/17/2008, 1:30 pm EST

The world of music is not a given. It’s through effort and risk that good music is available. Enjoy it, don’t destroy it.

captain trips | 12/17/2008, 1:33 pm EST

From earlier
Rodge | 12/17/2008, 11:32 am EST

This is horrible. Phish for two nights is terrible. The Boss is terrible. Unless the undercard is as good as last year, FUCK BONNAROO

Thank you bonnaroo for changing things, so guys like this will not be there starting fights and truly screwing up what we in the scene have been trying to create for ourselves for so many years!

Angry Bostonian | 12/17/2008, 1:37 pm EST

Bonnaroo is the greatest music festival in the world. Anyone who disagrees clearly has never been.

karma | 12/17/2008, 2:35 pm EST

pipe down you bunch of fu#$%^& hippies. People are trying to sleep!

Carl | 12/17/2008, 2:35 pm EST

I agree with McLovins

karma | 12/17/2008, 2:36 pm EST

pipe down you bunch of wanna be fu#$%^& hippies. People are trying to sleep! Now go get in your Range Rover that mommy and daddy gave you for graduation and get the hell on….poseurs.

trey's left nut | 12/17/2008, 3:39 pm EST

here’s an idea, wait for the band to confirm this rumor before you start bashing the band. tour dates will be announced soon enough.

darthwilson | 12/17/2008, 3:41 pm EST

The funniest thing about these post is that half of them are from PT’ers. I actually thought I was on the pt message board for a minute!

The Hallion | 12/17/2008, 4:14 pm EST

I think it makes sense – in a Bonnaroo past. It’s turned into a bunch of crap though. There was a musical thread that ran loosely through Bonnaroo years ago. Now it’s trying to appeal to too many people instead of sticking to the original concept, which WAS to bring good music to people, even if it wasn’t popular. Kanye, Metallica, Bruce… predictable, boring. Maybe next it will be ‘Bonnaroo 2009!!!! Brought to you by Best Buy!!!! And, don’t forget to visit the Rolling Stone Rock N Roll Hookah Room!!! Wheeeeeeee!!! Pffffft.

Lindsay | 12/17/2008, 4:22 pm EST

all this bonnaroo news is awesome.

shawncarter | 12/17/2008, 4:27 pm EST

meh

Makisupamerican | 12/17/2008, 4:52 pm EST

Its weird how angry some “peaceful” jam band fans get about bonnaroo these days. Besides the headliners(although Pearl Jam,Tool and Radiohead were great), Roo has been nothing short of a phenominal time. Great avant garde bands all over the venue, plus larger named bands. How many stages can one fan be at at a time anyway. Go watch Phil Lesh while Talib Kwali is at another tent, cant watch all of both. Big ups to Bonnaroo and bring on Phish and their herb toting fans. I’m going again.

VocalMan | 12/17/2008, 5:02 pm EST

The author’s mistaken. It will be Trey’s SIXTH ‘Roo. Don’t forget the Oysterhead reunion in ‘06. Probably the highlight of the weekend next to Radiohead, at least for me.

Goody | 12/17/2008, 5:14 pm EST

Break out the hacky sack, Panama Red, and tie dye, Phish is back…. start twirling around like Elaine on Seinfeld…..now!!

JeNi | 12/17/2008, 5:24 pm EST

rothbury and bonnaroo are NOT run by the same people… I’d been to b roo 4 times and after 07 swore I’d never go back. Went to Rothbury last summer and it was by far the best festie I had EVER been to by far… I wish phish would just play there instead!

Rodge | 12/17/2008, 5:34 pm EST

“Thank you bonnaroo for changing things, so guys like this will not be there starting fights and truly screwing up what we in the scene have been trying to create for ourselves for so many years!”

So because I dont like Phish or The Boss, I’m a violent individual? Not at all. I would just like the festival to be eclectic like it was last year. Instead of having everyone there being exact carbon copies of each other.

VocalMan | 12/17/2008, 5:47 pm EST

So because I dont like Phish or The Boss, I’m a violent individual? Not at all. I would just like the festival to be eclectic like it was last year. Instead of having everyone there being exact carbon copies of each other.

I totally agree. That being said, obviously Phish and Springsteen are nothing alike, and we have no idea about any undercards. So let’s all reserve judgment, shall we?

jackmehoff | 12/17/2008, 9:26 pm EST

Phish is going to play @ higherground 12-30-08 w/ Mike Gordon. Just confirmed.

MN Kim | 12/17/2008, 9:44 pm EST

Phish is a disgrace to music as a whole. Rolling Stone is where I learned about Gordo’s perverted situation at Jones Beach. Bonnaroo has nothing to prove. Not to mention the entire festival would be smothered in balloons from all the nitrous. Phish is classy like that…

Havagratefuldaye | 12/17/2008, 11:26 pm EST

Phish needs to start doin their own fests again like the great went, lemonwheel, it, coventry, they tour cross country playin festivals for themselves and their fans. that way the people who like phish are there and the people who don’t arent. not to mention its way more epic that way

jd | 12/18/2008, 12:24 am EST

Bonnaroo is the biggest sellout corperate festival out there. please do not play there phish!!!!!

eric r | 12/18/2008, 2:26 am EST

This is so what bonnaroo needs we need to go back to the roots of what bonnaroo is all about! I just wish it would be rhcp friday nite phish sat and the dead on sunday. Either way its gonna be amazing.

Anonymous | 12/18/2008, 11:24 am EST

It would be nice to see David Gilmour play at Bonneroo because his band is amazing, and he hasnt toured in a couple years. Plus he can jam with the best of them, and his catalog of music both solo and Floyd is amazing

fluffhead | 12/18/2008, 1:00 pm EST

I live an hour from Bonnaroo. If Phish wants to play there, great. It’s not ever gonna be the same. All the Phamily has grown up, sobered up, and moved on (i hope). So if you want to relive the jam band glory days, How bout panic to close it out like they always do with a string cheese late night?

fluffhead | 12/18/2008, 1:01 pm EST

with two night of phish, of course.

my sources | 12/18/2008, 1:11 pm EST

my sources say that phish is going to play the chuckie cheese in burlington on 1/1/09 with dave matthews band opening!

duperfly | 12/18/2008, 3:34 pm EST

I find the argument that Bonnaroo is a sell-out fest, and therefore Phish shouldn’t play there…flawed. Of course Bonnaroo made some dubious decisions in artist selection…particularly last year, or did the artists bailout and go to other fests? BUT, If Phish wants to play music, the music will be of high quality, and maybe if us fans make an impression, we can begin to change the culture for the better.

munchbeushkin | 12/18/2008, 3:58 pm EST

a lot of us phans have grown up, by the way it’s not 1996 anymore, if phish wants to play bonnaroo, who gives a f__ck. if you are a real fan, u should just be grateful they are playing music together, instead of complaining about where they play.

jackmehoff | 12/18/2008, 5:51 pm EST

Talked to Trey today. Bonnaroo is going to be acoustic sets only, wookie shaving and inverted vacuum solos.
Get ready for a great time!

breedlove72 | 12/18/2008, 9:04 pm EST

I could care less if it’s corporate or not! Just let me dance man!

50 cent | 12/18/2008, 9:16 pm EST

wow, fuk all of u. the Flaming Lips are owning phish right now. trey should stop being so serious and start writing some mind boggling stuff again….it’s their only hope

void | 12/18/2008, 9:21 pm EST

I didn’t know Chuck Norris was in a band.

Dan | 12/18/2008, 9:33 pm EST

Phish doesn’t need to play someone else’s fest. This isn’t going to happen.

jailgordotheperv | 12/18/2008, 10:06 pm EST

EWWWWW I forgot phish has a child lover in their band. I am grossed out and will not see Phish ever after reading that in rolling stone that the bass player likes kids.

simpletwistupdon | 12/18/2008, 10:23 pm EST

Yes because going to that “place” would do wonders for his sobriety.

sustainable future | 12/18/2008, 11:18 pm EST

I too have been put off of the Bonnaroo experience over the last several years. After going to the first 3, I’ve witnessed the quality deteriorate and the culture change. That being said, if my data is correct, Superfly Entertainment, the Bonnaroo productions company, asked Phish management to consult on the first Bonnaroo project, because of their experience with the Went Wheel, Cypress, etc, so the organizations are familiar with each other. Additionally, one of the reason’s Trey cited during Phish’s break up was burn out from unrealistic expectations. With Bonnaroo as a vehicle, Phish will be allowed to play to 75,000 fans and create incredible music without the challenge of having to focus 99% of their time energy and resources to conducting an entire festival. Its a smart move, and just like Hillary fans who warmed up to Obama, so too will you warm up to the idea of a Phish fest this summer.

Tela>Timber | 12/18/2008, 11:24 pm EST

Rolling Stone = Phish going to Hampton!
THE EQUALITY SAYS IT ALL!

T.J. | 12/19/2008, 2:54 am EST

Why on earth would Phish play a separate festival on their reunion? They’ve already proven (year after year) that they can create their own festival (70-90,000 in attendance) The Clifford Ball, Lemonwheel, The Great Went, NYE at Big Cypress. They can have complete control, be the only band playing, take all of the profits, and draw at least 75,000 – probably more even because it’s (another) reunion.
Seriously, Phish hardly needs a festival like Bonnaroo to draw an audience.

Gone Phishin | 12/19/2008, 3:37 am EST

Phish is EXACTLY what bonnaroo needs to restore some of its credibility. Now they just need to add some Panic and moe. to the bill and they’ll be back to the old days…

p.s. allgood by far the best festival near the east coast…not the roo

Nick | 12/19/2008, 3:23 pm EST

I’ve been to all the Roos and they have all been fantastic. Everyone says the first ones were more “heady” but jam bands have always been on the bill. There aren’t enough big name jam bands to fill all the stages and times. The diveristy of music has been great. There is enough music there for any kind of music fan to keep them satisfied. The only time Bonnaroo sucked was last year’s Kanye West episode. The organizers learned a lesson and we sent that punk home with his tail between his legs. Phish is going to be right at home at Roo. Can’t wait!

44 | 12/19/2008, 5:19 pm EST

Phish is getting 1.4 million each to play this show. the most they have ever received individually for a show. I hope for all you haters they cover an entire album and play Gamehenge. Imagine how sick the superjam will be and how many people Trey rips with.
Trey and Bruce are both from Jersey. Born to run. Born to Roo!!!!!!!!!!!1

wahoowa | 12/19/2008, 7:56 pm EST

Phish may be able to host their own festivals and take all the profit, but they must reach a point where the work is too much. Playing a festival like this and getting a huge paycheck is a lot easier. Not to mention, Phish will be a home run at Bonnaroo.

trey | 12/19/2008, 10:36 pm EST

phuk wilson

casey_jonez | 12/19/2008, 10:38 pm EST

ya y’all quit your bitchin’………although I would rather see another maine festival {and who says its still not possible?}…….anything Phish does totally rocks and they should be appreciated and thanked repeatedly for even playing for us at all!!!!

casey_jonez | 12/19/2008, 10:41 pm EST

and p.s.

Thank you Phish!!!
Trey is GOD!!!

I think you all are forgetting | 12/20/2008, 10:26 am EST

Phish was the band Superfly Productions (’Roo organizers) brought to New Orleans Jazz Fest in 1996 that transformed that festival into a big-time event and legitimized Phish and jambands as “mainstream” headlining acts. It was also the event that gave Superfly legs in the concert business. So…
(A) There wouldn’t be a Bonnaroo without Phish and Superfly.
(B) A 2-night headliner is a tradition with Bonnaroo.
(C) Phish historically does 2-night shows on their tours.
(D) You will have a good time if you go.

$$$$$$$$ | 12/20/2008, 12:49 pm EST

fuck hampton and the $400 tickets and fuck bonnaroo with the $400 tickets. hey…must be the $money$

I KNOW WHAT IM TALKING ABOUT | 12/20/2008, 2:27 pm EST

Listen, if phish wants to play at the roo…let them! If you dont like it you dont have to go. I have gone to the phish festivals and they were awesome. However there is a lot of down time that would be cool to have filled with other good bands to see. It seems to me that all of the veteran phans think it is either quit or job and see them every show or nothing….How about when you want to see a show that is in reasonable driving distance go, if not stay home. Cant wait for Hamptons!

Knotty | 12/20/2008, 5:20 pm EST

any band with a child-lover in it is messed up…./and broo is an eclectic fest…by having pish there it makes the fest a pish fest..especialy when you know they will be playing with every band .so lets think about it and hope that one of the prermire music fest’s in the world, will be about the music and not pish or the record companies promotion of what they are trying to make $ on…respect the boss hope for led zep, and let the chips fall where they may,,,just dont make roo all about pish…

pmann46 | 12/20/2008, 9:58 pm EST

there is no credibility in this article…. “a reliable source”…most likely meaning, the journalist made this shit up..

Whitesoxphishfan | 12/22/2008, 10:43 am EST

Phish should come to Chicago and play Lalapalooza

oneinthepinktwointhestink | 12/22/2008, 6:56 pm EST

Wow, after reading all this mind numbing bullshit i feel compelled to add some of my own. Im glad that i was over the festi thing in the 90’s. despite the ecclectic music the festi scene is a drag.. ie; mounds of shit overflowing porta potties ect. however, they serve their purpose. were else can 17 year old kids in Dave Matthews (no offense dave) t-shirts get all fucked up without consequence? I for one think that if phish plays gag-me-roo that it is fantastic.. have fun. I will be waiting at the gorge. peace ya’ll, go easy………. ah the 90’s

Bonnaroo is not deteriorating | 12/22/2008, 9:53 pm EST

Their forte is selecting the top acts in nearly every genre of music. Putting them all together in a big festival is where the magic comes from. That is what makes them great.

Panties for LIFE!!! | 12/22/2008, 10:34 pm EST

I heard Death Metal PantyHose are headlining the Which Stage!!!

Fee | 12/23/2008, 1:14 pm EST

I think Phish owes their fans a weekend in VT to make up for the tragedy that was 2004 before they think of doing a Bonnaroo.

Either way, I’m not going back to Bonnaroo until they move the festival to either May, or late September. I’ll be damned if I’m going to sit and roast in 95 degree southern heat with 120,000 people.

weatherman | 12/23/2008, 2:58 pm EST

it might be 95 degrees at night…but its closer to 130 degrees during the day.

Wanna Puke | 12/24/2008, 9:18 pm EST

WILL NOT HAPPEN

lc | 12/27/2008, 4:49 am EST

yay!

camzilla | 12/28/2008, 10:18 am EST

just say no to the Roo,

See everyone at the Gorge

the jaded emperor | 12/30/2008, 10:08 am EST

ive been to many phish festivals.(thanks for all the loot custies)ive been to many bonaroo’s (thanks for the hotel room’s custies). if phish plays at the roo . …………….. PAYDAY.
but as far a music goes does phish really have anything but nostalgia to offer? sorry kids after 97 phish has sucked. sorry you missed fall tour 94. it was sweet

shaggydog | 12/30/2008, 10:17 am EST

went to many phish fests(thanks for all the custies) went to many bonaroo’s (thanks custies,for paying for my hotel rooms).phish has nothing to offer besides hype.i cant remember a truly good show after 97. and i saw plenty. sorry kids you missed fall tour 94. that was as good as it will ever be .

ReadIcculus | 1/2/2009, 9:27 am EST

sick of the complainers. if you don’t have anything good to say…stay home and wait for the recording! this is music, people! bank on closing roo and bank on a full tour. the boys are back and ready for you whiners

Alec Baldwin | 1/3/2009, 1:17 pm EST

“Uhhh corporate Amercia, uhhhh global warming, uhhhhh…”

This shit drives me nuts. All you “phans” out there should be happy they are annoucing more and more dates and be less concerned about where and when. WAHHH WAHH,bonnaroo is corporate bullshit, waahhh. Shut the fuck up and enjoy the shows while you can.

Justin | 1/3/2009, 1:32 pm EST

It is precisely all the people that have expressed their desire to not attend Bonnaroo this year due to Phish’s possible headlining that will enable me to get a ticket and actually see Phish this summer, without the tickets selling out in a 10th of a second (a la Hampton ‘09). So actually, what on the surface seems like the band “selling out” is in actuality a way for the band to allow people to actually come see them who have loved them for all these years but have been shut out in the ticketing process due to the rabid fans (and lets be honest, drug addicts, who do not deserve to see Phish) or just those who have heard Farmhouse and want to be part of the scene. I was first shocked at this new, but I’ve turned a new page. This is my opportunity to see them this summer after four years of abstinence, so please, complain all you like and do not go! I beg of you.

Justin | 1/3/2009, 1:34 pm EST

shesmysister: so you know Phish did NOT do Gin and Juice, it is your kind that sells out Phish concerts. It was a commonly mislabeled MP3 that actually was performed by the Gourds from Austin, TX. Get a clue for Christ’s sake. Bathtub Gin, however, they did do quite brilliantly…. ;)

BJ has dreadies | 1/4/2009, 12:06 am EST

this reunion is so whacktab-u-lous! I spent over $1200 for three tickets to hampton. I have dreadies and my name is Bj. Thats right, my parents named me after a blow job, but i have dreadies and that makes me super cool. See you at bonnaroo with my dreadies. h3tty!

phishpac | 1/4/2009, 2:12 am EST

:: masturbates dog ::

brian | 1/4/2009, 2:23 pm EST

you cant mix fucking kanye west and phish… phish is far too superior to share playing the same festival with that trash kanye west

kanye/west | 1/5/2009, 11:16 am EST

please fool, phish would jump at the chance to have me sit in with them. after jay-z, kanye would be a big step up.

gilleland C - town | 1/6/2009, 12:46 pm EST

First of all I love phish its a way of life 4 the true heads I wont be able to attend this reunion show because it sold out faster than the speed of light.I need It like crack to free myself from everything goin on thats heavy. march 6th is so important to me. My DAD passed away March 6th 2008 I can’t go because of money and all the newbies that want to be part of something. Its bull shit so have fun and dont forget to ask what song thier playing!!!! Oh yeah the roo is all about the money good idea mid june

Phish? boooo | 1/6/2009, 2:25 pm EST

screw phish, but i guess it makes sense that theyre playing the hippy phest lol

Spliffany | 1/6/2009, 3:01 pm EST

Phish playing the Roo….WTF…Come back to Big Cypress…

the mocking bird | 1/6/2009, 3:06 pm EST

Bonna WHO ? Now that Phish is back we don’t need any other bands at Bonnawho the phans will take that bitch over Noone gives a fuck about some wanna be hip hop star like kanye west everyone there will be there for one reason and thats to go PHISHN c u in the lot rookies!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Anonymous | 1/6/2009, 4:01 pm EST

what a bunch of losers Phish should play there own fest…WTF who cares maybe they will…If I spend all weekend thursday to sunday camped anywhere I sure as hell want more than one show a day. That’s why PHISH at roo would rock…Phish 2 nights and tons of other music…For those asshats that only want to hear Phish well that’s why I said FU to all of u back in ‘94

phamily | 1/6/2009, 5:02 pm EST

Bonashit would suck without phish Not one of those bands deserve to play on the same stage.Our festivals alone draw more people than all those bands combined.The phans will have their way.

Uncle Naitch | 1/7/2009, 1:36 am EST

Kids be cool the cheddar will be there for you and possiably a kick down to get down too. Custies please come through without you our little lot kid dreams can’t come true. Pray that with Obama in office us kids can get back to business this summer with the return of The Dead, Phish will rebutal with more dates. we all praying from GD fam and Phish kids to custies that the music is off the hook. so bring back our shakedown and fakedown and let the Good Times Roll. And to Custaroo if they play thats at least 100,000+ cuties for the taking. get it kids see you on the lots and don’t forget your trust-funds fratboys and college girls your moneys green too!!!!!!!!!!

thaknowledgehustla | 1/7/2009, 2:27 pm EST

bona fide hippy thug here. yo, im gonna nod my head so hard its gonna fall off. ill be the dude with the neck brace passed out in the mud. phish is sick. those who knock them shall be struck down!

thaknowledgehustla | 1/7/2009, 2:29 pm EST

oh, and uncle niatch, youre my custy dog. ill serve you up.

fuck the hustla | 1/7/2009, 2:49 pm EST

this want to be thug is probably from utah in the burbs all you’ll serve is some burgers from the king get real

BOO 4 The Roo ! | 1/7/2009, 7:45 pm EST

Lets get our own festival boys. Way to much fun when the old school crew used to run these things.

uncle naitch | 1/8/2009, 12:32 am EST

sorry for insighting a riot the lack of the open road and being pent up in NY since i got off tour busting my but tooking for college kids has made me bitter!!! im sorry ihope we can all just dance together in green fields with flowers and ribbons in our hair!!!!

LOL You can take the kid off the lot but not the lot out of the kid

uncle naitch | 1/8/2009, 12:37 am EST

PS everyone is somebodies custy just dont be a crusty …. bumbaclaat

jimi thing | 1/18/2009, 9:22 am EST

I hope Dave Matthews Band plays at bonnaroo also. DMB and Phish would be a dream line-up!!!

josh | 1/18/2009, 8:34 pm EST

“the East Coast’s premiere multi-day, multi-stage gathering”?!?! at least keep a map around if you’re not going to bother to learn elementary geography about the country you’re writing about.

wagon | 1/23/2009, 11:16 am EST

wow, where to start. first of all, “the East Coast’s premiere multi-day, multi-stage gathering of the vibes…” this is just drooling with errors. as many pointed out, TN is not exactly the east coast. second of all, way to use the name of an actual east-coast festival “gathering of the vibes” in your description. i’m sure the promoters of that 10+ year festival are happy to see their name thrown in with Bonnaroo.

Lastly, as many before me pointed out, phish can attract as many people as bonnaroo to their own private festival. furthermore, they have not shared stage (festival or opening act) since the horde fest in ‘94, why start now with possible the most commercially abused festival known to man.

johnnyhomegrown | 1/28/2009, 8:33 pm EST

All yall should just fuhkn chill nothins in stone but if the boyz from VT. decide 2 play ,enjoi MF, you all that have never got to enjoi the show might just really get off besides ROO KICKS ASS, sellout or not it will be alot of good times.Theres alot of tents to open your little peebrains

Manny 'The Force' Squirrles | 1/29/2009, 6:59 am EST

I have never seen Phish live and have always wanted to go to Bonnaroo. I don’t care what all you negative bastards say. I think a the 650-mile, 10-hour roady would be worth it.

Panama Kevin | 1/29/2009, 11:11 am EST

I’ve done the drive from LA to bonnaroo twice and it was worth it everytime, this year I am probably going to fly in, but only due to time constraints… I’m going regardless of who plays, I’m hoping to see Ghostland Observatory again, STS9, and hopefully Bassnectar!!

urmom | 1/31/2009, 4:52 pm EST

fuck that phish should not play roo first because well it sucks anymore why have them play so they can have death cab or some rediculous hipster band sit in

and besides if phish is announced all the ppl who go for other bands are gonna get shut out

maybe this will be good, go all the way back to like the first year when it was still a festival worth going to, before bands like metalica and tool or kanye west and the hipsters invaded and made it just another bunk festival

it was built on he cash of hippies give something back

Tom | 2/2/2009, 12:57 pm EST

Red Hot Chili Peppers should play

Tom | 2/2/2009, 12:57 pm EST

Red Hot Chili Peppers should play

uncle naitch | 2/5/2009, 1:12 am EST

well its in stone and this might be like the old days phish, b-boys, the man MR. AL GREEN, moe., bruce and the e street, tons of other great music and thank god that talentless hack Kayne West, and if he reads this pay out for that accident that you caused fool unfortunately you were allowed to open your mouth again we all be better off if it stayed wired shut for the rest of your worthless days. p.s. don’t forget tp let your editors check your spelling.

HEAVY THINGS | 2/13/2009, 10:27 am EST

ALL I WANT TO POST IS THAT I’VE SEEN PHISH LIVE 6 TIMES AND THEY ARE THE MOST AMAZING BAND I’VE EVER SEEN LIVE!!! THEY’RE LAST PHISH FESTIVAL IN COVENTRY, VT WAS THE GREATEST WEEKEND OF MY LIFE!!!

HEAVY THINGS | 2/13/2009, 10:27 am EST

ALL I WANT TO POST IS THAT I’VE SEEN PHISH LIVE 6 TIMES AND THEY ARE THE MOST AMAZING BAND I’VE EVER SEEN LIVE!!! THEY’RE LAST PHISH FESTIVAL IN COVENTRY, VT WAS THE GREATEST WEEKEND OF MY LIFE!!!

College Hipster | 2/14/2009, 3:13 pm EST

Im only going for animal collective, Al Green, and the Volta

front row francis | 2/24/2009, 11:39 am EST

Bonnaroo is not a chill hippie fest anymore, it’s like who can we book that will sell tickets. A true hippie fest lies on the “real east coast” vibes..allgood..and now the best fest ROTHBURY! Although in Michigan, a true hippie fest and better than Bonnaroo. Chill out hippies summer is almost here. So get ready true headies!

Aleian | 3/17/2009, 11:43 pm EST

Most of those praising the true hippies and hatin on “hipsters” to me appear to be bitter and ignorant. Ex: “it was built on (t)he cash of hippies giv(ing) something back ” -urmom
(The parentheses are corrections made to an enlightened hippies spelling)
It seems as though many ppl upset about this aspect have not taken more than a few seconds to look into what is actually accomplished at Bonnaroo despite its easy to navigate web page. What I am gathering is that this “hippy” culture cannot peer beyond the veil of their own prejudices. I’ll see u guys at roo and smile when I see you too! lata

Kanye West | 6/2/2009, 2:10 pm EST

F Kanye! The only reason I’m glad he pulled his little stunt last year is that Roo stepped up with some real hip hop on top of the rad jam line up. This is gonna be an incredible weekend. I hope you read this Kanye you little punk.

vincent | 7/6/2009, 1:47 am EST

you guys have any idea the music the boss has been making for 35 years …… theese young turd bands cant do what he does in one show …. what a legend bruce springsteen was that night …. you people need to realize whats inspiring.. just listen up and get real… bruuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuce

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