Grateful Dead’s “Peggy O” Is Too Good For Words

Stop What You’re Doing And Listen

There’s only one way to describe this epic performance: poetic. This was taken in 1994 and features Jerry Garcia in his element. The guitar solo alone is already one for the books. It’s raw and emotional – all the things we love in every Grateful Dead song. Do you know what it feels like listening to him? He’s like an old man telling you stories about his life – it feels pure and intimate, as if he’s sharing secrets with you no one else knows.

A jaunty version of Johnny Cash’s “Big River” has Garcia and Weir teaming on lead vocals, followed by a definitive reading of the traditional “Peggy-O.” The latter number was rarely played better than in 1977, when Garcia seemed most enamored by it, and this is a fine example. His vocal and guitar work, combined with Godchaux’s piano embellishments, make this version a pure delight.

It’s beautiful and while it’s difficult to pick our top 5 favorite Grateful Dead hits, this is easily up there.