Jefferson Waful Announces Retirement From Umphrey’s McGee

Longtime Umphrey’s McGee lighting designer Jefferson Waful announced his retirement from the road. Waful’s will remain behind the light board through the end of 2019.

Jefferson joined the band as their LD in 2008. In addition to his duties as lighting designer, he also has directed a number of videos for the group including the documentary Reel To Real. “We will begin the search to fill Jefferson’s shoes shortly and are excited for what 2020 will bring,” reads a note from Umphrey’s McGee. “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.”

“This has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will always cherish,” said Waful in a statement. “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.”