Author Description

Jerry Garcia, the lead guitarist, singer, and alleged leader of the Grateful Dead, became an icon of the 60s youth movement. It was well-known that Jerry was a huge fan, and probably considered himself a player, of old-time American music from mountain fiddle and banjo music to English ballads, to jug band music to bluegrass and blues, and more. On the "Shady Grove" recordings, one can hear that Jerry had a deep commitment, respect, and love for this traditional American music. He's very faithful to the original artists' music. That may be surprising if you expect more of an ego-driven "my version" approach from one of the biggest rock stars ever. What you have is a vibrant collection of wonderful traditional American songs, from various genres, played in a style closely based on their traditional sources. Of course, within those parameters, we hear wonderful and personal readings of the tunes from Jerry and mandolinist David Grisman. Dix Bruce carefully transcribed many of Jerry's solos from the album, trying to determine what he was playing and how he was playing it. Melodies, tablature, lyrics, and chords are included in arrangements designed to be playable on the guitar while presenting the melodies as closely as possible. Jerry's banjo solos are transcribed here for guitar.