Photo by Brian Stollery


As per a recent statement by the band, longtime Umphrey’s McGee lighting designer Jefferson Waful “will be retiring from touring at the end of 2019.”

“For over ten years Umphrey’s McGee has been incredibly fortunate to have Jefferson Waful as our lighting designer,” UM wrote. “His inventive style, improvisational acumen, and keen eye for detail has added a valuable dimension to the UM live experience, both for band and fans alike.”

Before working with UM, Waful managed ’90s jamband Uncle Sammy, worked as an editor at Relix and Jambands.com and designed lights for moe. Waful also recently spoke at the Relix Live Music Conference.

Check out both UM and Waful’s full statements as well as Waful’s LD commentary on “Der Bluten Kat” below:

For over ten years Umphrey’s McGee has been incredibly fortunate to have Jefferson Waful as our lighting designer. His inventive style, improvisational acumen, and keen eye for detail has added a valuable dimension to the UM live experience, both for band and fans alike. With our sense of gratitude for all that he has contributed, Jefferson will be retiring from touring at the end of 2019. He will forever be part of the Umphrey’s family.

We will begin the search to fill Jefferson’s shoes shortly and are excited for what 2020 will bring. Join us in thanking Jefferson for all that he has added to the UM experience, and we wish him nothing but success on the next chapter of his distinguished career.

– Andy, Brendan, Jake, Joel, Kris, & Ryan

This has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will always cherish. I am incredibly lucky to have fulfilled a dream and grateful to Umphrey’s McGee for giving me this opportunity. Of course none of it would be possible without such a passionate and loyal community of fans. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

– Jefferson Waful