Jerry Garcia was a talented songwriter, and his songs are scattered throughout the Grateful Dead’s music collection, as well as in his solo work and side projects. While he didn’t write songs for other artists, many artists found inspiration in his music and created their own versions. Here are five instances where skilled artists found inspiration in Jerry Garcia’s music and made it their own.
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1. Laura Veirs’ Rendition of “Mountains of the Moon”
Jerry Garcia, along with Dead bassist Phil Lesh and lyricist Robert Hunter, created the enigmatic track “Mountains of the Moon,” which initially appeared on the Dead’s 1969 album Aoxomoxoa. Laura Veirs included it as the only cover song on her 2018 album, The Lookout. Veirs’ version seamlessly blends with her folk-based music, and her collaboration with Jim James of My Morning Jacket adds an ethereal touch to the song. Despite its cryptic lyrics, Veirs brings out the gentle melody, making Garcia proud of this hidden gem.
2. Jimmy Buffett’s Take on “Uncle John’s Band”
“Uncle John’s Band” is one of the Grateful Dead’s most iconic songs, known even to casual fans. Written by Garcia and Hunter, it appeared on their 1970 album Workingman’s Dead. Jimmy Buffett covered the song on his 1994 album Fruitcakes, infusing it with his engaging personality and transforming it into a heartfelt message. Buffett’s rendition, while retaining some harmonies, adds a unique island vibe to the classic.
3. Elvis Costello’s Interpretation of “Ship of Fools”
Elvis Costello, a renowned songwriter, is also a remarkable interpreter of others’ songs. Costello’s version of “Ship of Fools” from the ’74 Dead album “From the Mars Hotel” appears on the 1990 compilation album Deadicated. He infuses the melancholic melody with a touch of anger, surrounded by session legends. While the original was a cautionary tale, Costello turns it into a protest song, emphasizing its intended message.
4. Willie Nelson’s Rendition of “Stella Blue”
“Stella Blue” first appeared on the Dead’s 1973 album “Wake of the Flood,” featuring a jazzy sound. Willie Nelson included it on his 2006 album “Songbird,” with Ryan Adams as the producer. Nelson’s rendition captures the essence of the song, blending seamlessly with his unique style. His phrasing, combined with Adams’ arrangement, adds depth and emotion to the song’s lyrics, conveying a sense of defeat and resilience.
5. Levon Helm’s Take on “Tennessee Jed”
“Tennessee Jed” shares thematic connections with Levon Helm’s original band, The Band, resembling “The Weight.” Levon’s cover, featured on his 2009 album “Electric Dirt,” adds a personal touch to the song. When Helm sings it, it feels like Hunter and Garcia wrote it specifically for him. His authentic delivery embodies the tale of finding salvation in a Southern location, making it unforgettable.
