The Grateful Dead will go down in history as one of the most influential and iconic bands in American music history. They are known for their eclectic blend of rock, folk, country, and improvisational jams, but how did they achieve such a distinct sound? While their electric guitar work often steals the spotlight, the band's acoustic guitars played a crucial role in shaping it. In this story, we are going to explore the various types of acoustic guitars used by the Grateful Dead, the songs they were featured on, and some great quotes from fellow musicians about the guitars' sounds and the impact of the songs.
Jerry Garcia's Acoustic Guitars
Jerry Garcia was the band's lead guitarist and spiritual leader, and a master of both electric and acoustic guitar. Garcia had two favorite acoustic guitars throughout his career: the Martin D-28 and the Martin D-35. The Martin D-28, Garcia's go-to acoustic guitar, was known for its rich tone and projection. It can be heard gracing numerous Grateful Dead classics, including "Friend of the Devil," "Ripple," and "Dire Wolf." The Martin D-35 was a special guitar boasting a distinct three-piece back. You can hear Garcia play the D-35 in the songs "Bird Song" and "Black Peter."
Bob Weir's Acoustic Guitars
Bob Weir contributed significantly to the Grateful Dead's acoustic sound. As the band's rhythm guitarist and vocalist, Weir primarily played a Gibson J-45. The J-45 is a classic acoustic guitar known for its warm and balanced tone. You can hear its soothing melodies on songs like "Cassidy," "Me and My Uncle," and "Mexicali Blues." Weir also occasionally played a Martin D-28 like Garcia, adding a different flavor to the band's acoustic arrangements.
Phil Lesh's Acoustic Bass
Phil Lesh's acoustic bass played a vital role in the Grateful Dead's acoustic performances. A more rare sight than a traditional acoustic guitar, Lesh used a Guild Starfire bass. Its sound provided a deep, resonant tone that complemented the acoustic guitars. Lesh’s acoustic bass can be heard on songs like "Uncle John's Band" and "Box of Rain," adding a unique sound rarely heard in other pieces.
Still doubting the impact of The Grateful Dead’s acoustic magnificence? Don’t take our word for it, take the word of some of the most well known artists in history.
David Crosby, of Crosby, Stills & Nash, spoke about Jerry Garcia’s unmatched acoustic style, saying: "Jerry had a way of making the guitar sing. His acoustic playing was so fluid and expressive; it felt like the guitar was an extension of his soul."
Phil Lesh reflected on the band's acoustic performances in later years, saying: "Playing acoustic allowed us to strip down our sound and focus on the essence of the songs. It was a chance for us to connect with the audience on a more intimate level."
Bob Dylan, who needs no introduction, and collaborated with the Grateful Dead on various occasions, praised Bob Weir's acoustic guitar style and his ability to always keep the rhythm. Dylan said: "Bob Weir's rhythm guitar work is unparalleled. His ability to create intricate patterns while maintaining a solid foundation is truly remarkable."
It is easy to think of The Grateful Dead and playback the wide range of electric guitar solos and soothing melodies. However, acoustic guitars played a significant role in shaping their unique sound that many still overlook today. What can’t be overlooked, is the impact that the band’s acoustic expressions made on their history and music. Jerry Garcia's Martin D-28 and D-35, Bob Weir's Gibson J-45, and Phil Lesh's Guild Starfire bass all added depth and texture to the band's acoustic performances. The songs which featured their acoustic prowess showcased the band's versatility and ability to connect with their audience on a more intimate level. With tunes so impactful that fellow musicians took notice, it highlights the impact of the Grateful Dead's acoustic guitars and the profound influence they had on the music world.