The Davis Nonet opened for the New Riders of the Purple Sage. This show was recorded for broadcast by the Stanford University student radio station. One review noted that

Fistfights and gate crashing marred the performace of Miles Davis and the New Riders of the Purple Sage yesterday at Frost Amphitheatre. ASSU organizers opened the gates at 4 pm after a crown of 300 outside the amphitheater repeatedly rushed the gate and threw rocks at Santa Clara County Sheriff's deputies hired to provide security.

Another review mentions that "the Miles portion of the show was recorded by Wally Heider Studios and may soon be released by Columbia Records. Definitely worth buying." Needless to say, Columbia never released this performance.

"Ife" evolved as it was performed during this period: the jaunty ten-note ascending-descending vamp that was the basis of the studio version of the tune was supplemented (and soon replaced) by a simpler four-note riff. In 1972 live performances, the tune typically begins with the slower riff and shifts to the quicker (here the shift occurs at 9:01). By early 1973 the simpler slower riff replaced it completely.

"Chieftain" was first recorded in the studio on August 23 . It is commonly performed in a medley with "Rated X" during this period. The transition occurs when Henderson begins the distinctive (and insistent) el-b vamp. I am grateful to Jim Szabo for discussion on these tunes.

The Nonet was busy during this period: Paul's Mall, Boston (September 14-17); Spectrum, Philadelphia (September 23); Lincoln Center, New York (September 29); Stanford University Amphitheater, Palo Alto (October 1); Civic Theatre, San Diego (October 8).

Upon returning to New York, Davis broke both legs in an automobile accident (October 19).