In addition to their inventive original music, the Grateful Dead were known for their ability to write catchy cover songs, which contributed to their legendary status. When they covered a song, they altered it rather than just playing it. Whether they were honoring rock legends or blues pioneers, their versions often mirrored or even reimagined the originals. Some of the band’s best covers are these three.
“Revolution” – The Beatles
The Grateful Dead were huge fans of the Beatles and often used their songs in their live performances. They performed several Fab Four songs, but “Revolution” was one of their best performances. The Dead’s unique, free-spirited sound and The Beatles’ unadulterated energy combine to create a powerful blend of two of the most influential bands of the 20th century. Fans still consider this to be one of the Dead’s greatest Beatles covers because it encapsulates the spirit of the original and the improvisational genius that made the band unique.
“Forever Young” – Bob Dylan (feat. Neil Young)
The Grateful Dead owe a great deal to Bob Dylan, and their rendition of “Forever Young” is among their most moving homages to the singer. The song became a profoundly emotional tribute at the memorial service for concert producer Bill Graham in the early 1990s. Neil Young joined the band onstage, which made the performance even more memorable. Young’s emotional presence and the Dead’s cozy, acoustic-driven sound came together to create a performance that will never be forgotten. Although it’s heartbreaking that such a beautiful performance was inspired by tragedy, this rendition of “Forever Young” is still among the band’s strongest live performances.
“Around and Around” – Chuck Berry
A jam band playing a cover of Chuck Berry? It’s not exactly shocking. But the Grateful Dead made Chuck Berry’s “Around and Around” something special. This exciting cover of Berry’s rock ‘n’ roll classic is one of their favorite songs and has been a staple of their live shows for over 30 years. Although the song was a B-side to “Johnny B. Goode,” it had a strong base, but the Dead upped the ante and continuously delivered a fierce, powerful performance. Incorporating the Grateful Dead’s unique improvisational style while honoring Berry’s legacy is the perfect combination.
These three covers demonstrate the Grateful Dead’s reinvention of the music of their heroes. Whether performing rock classics or folk anthems, they never failed to leave an impression, proving that a successful cover is about more than just playing a song; it’s about giving it a new vibe.