Lose Yer Shoes Honourary Patron - Jerry Garcia
As band leader and folk singer, Jerry Garcia inspired many. His musical sensitivity could be felt by those who attended Grateful Dead concerts and listened to his recorded works. His sense of exploration in the music gave us all a clue about how to live, play and work. Jerry was a man of community, which his 30 years with the Grateful Dead attest to. He always played to uplift the band, not to show off his incredible skill. The skill showed itself off as Jerry allowed the music to flow through him. He presented songs of the past, digging up old skeletons and giving them new life, while composing his own marvelous works with traditional cadences and fresh hooks. As he grew older, his voice matured to the point where it would provide the high point of many a G.D. show.
When he died 5 years ago, the sense of loss could be felt across the world and services were held everywhere in his honour. Now, his legacy continues as his former bandmates continue to tour the continent, as jam bands form daily, inspired by his improvisational style, as fans listen to bootleg tapes which were all recorded with the permission of the band. Jerry Garcia will not be forgotten, by this generation or the next. His magic is well preserved in digital recordings and in our hearts. For all you gave us, thanks Jerry! Fare thee well!
For information about Jerry Garcia and the Grateful Dead, including ordering tickets, CDs and merchandise, visit dead.net
If you have any stories or comments you'd like to share about Jerry Garcia, click here to e-mail us.
To return to Lose Yer Shoes main page, click here