Happy Video Birthday to Dead Shaman Jerry Garcia

by Robert Wilkinson

It would be impossible to do an adequate tribute to one of music's true magic men, the incomparable Jerry Garcia. So today we'll just wish him a happy Dead Day. I saw him countless times when I was a version of "Deadhead" from 1969-1981, and believe me, any concert where the Dead played was an experience unto itself.

Without this turning into a trip through the past (pun intended) today I'll just link a few videos I found for your enjoyment. And of course, since vibration is everything, they just might blow your mind and change your view in some interesting ways. There are thousands of hours of Jerry out there in cyberspace, so enjoy picking your way through the picking.

I once read an interview with him where he responded to the question of why the Dead didn't do antiwar material. While I don't have his exact response, he basically offered that war is a really heavy thing and the Dead were there to help people dance. That's real wisdom because if we don't create some good vibes and experiences as we slog through the swamp, we'll have no good memories of celebration to remember as we move through the Eternal Now.

This Leo left an indelible mark on his world for years to come, whether we know it or not. Aum Namah Shivaya, Jerry. You died too young, and left us all changed forever.

For your enjoyment:

Jerry at Woodstock 1969

NoolMusic where there are more links than you could check out in a day.

A site claiming more than 100 Jerry Garcia videos.

Truckin' by the Greatful Dead. If you go to the "related videos" on the right side, you'll find classic performances of "Ripple" (sung by Jerry, as if you Deadheads didn't know!) and other major vibes "Casey Jones," "Uncle John's Band," "Dire Wolf," "Me and Bobby McGee," "Fire on the Mountain," and "Touch of Grey," among other.

So for now, dear Brothers and Sisters of the Dance, enjoy! the Dead are as alive today as they ever were. Skulls and crimson lightning bolts indeed!

© Copyright 2008 Robert Wilkinson

Comments

[dark star]

jerry was pretty special. he kinda changed my life. i think he did that for a lot of people. the man may have had his problems but he brought a lot of joy into the world and, maybe, made it just a little bit better.

thanks for the links and keep up the good work.

peace!

[Robert]

Hi dark star - Again, a great Dead song! Jerry was very special, and brought joy to millions of us. Will keep on keepin' on, as it is said.