Jerry Garcia, born Jerome John Garcia, was a prominent figure in the American music scene, particularly during the counterculture movement of the 1960s. He gained fame as a founding member, lead guitarist, and vocalist of the rock band Grateful Dead. Although he didn't seek leadership, he was often considered the band's frontman. His musical contributions earned him and the Grateful Dead a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994.
1937: Birth of Clifford Ramon Garcia
In 1937, Clifford Ramon "Tiff" Garcia, Jerry Garcia's older brother, was born. Shortly before Clifford's birth, their father, Jose, faced blackballing from a musicians' union for moonlighting, leading him to lease a building in downtown San Francisco and transform it into a bar.
August 1, 1942: Birth of Jerry Garcia
Jerome John Garcia was born on August 1, 1942, in the Excelsior District of San Francisco, California. His parents, Jose and Ruth Garcia, named him after composer Jerome Kern.
1946: Childhood Accident
During a family vacation in the Santa Cruz Mountains in 1946, four-year-old Jerry Garcia experienced a life-altering event. His right middle finger was accidentally severed by his brother in a wood-splitting incident.
1950: Jerry Garcia's 1950 Cadillac
Jerry Garcia acquired a 1950 Cadillac sedan. The car, purchased from an army cook, served as his mode of transportation until it broke down in East Palo Alto, marking the end of an era for the vehicle.
1953: Moving to Menlo Park and Introduction to Music
In 1953, Jerry Garcia, his brother, and their mother relocated to Menlo Park for a safer environment. That same year, he was introduced to the world of rock and roll and rhythm and blues, which captivated his musical interest. He enjoyed listening to icons like Ray Charles, John Lee Hooker, and Chuck Berry, further shaping his musical taste.
1955: Gift of the 'Alligator' Stratocaster
In May 1971, Jerry Garcia began playing a 1955 natural finish Stratocaster, a gift from Graham Nash in 1969. He added an alligator sticker to the pickguard in the fall of 1971, earning it the nickname "Alligator."
1957: Introduction to Marijuana and Art
In mid-1957, Jerry Garcia began experimenting with marijuana and pursued his artistic side at the San Francisco Art Institute. He was mentored by Wally Hedrick, a prominent artist who recognized Garcia's talent and encouraged his drawing and painting skills.
1958: Attending Balboa High School
In 1958, Jerry Garcia attended Balboa High School but often found himself in trouble for skipping classes and getting into fights.
1959: Moving to Cazadero and Joining the Chords
In 1959, Jerry Garcia's family moved to Cazadero, California. He joined a band called the Chords while attending Analy High School in Sebastopol. Their victory in a music contest earned them a recording session.
December 14, 1960: General Discharge from the Army
After a period of accumulating AWOL offenses and disciplinary issues, Jerry Garcia received a general discharge from the U.S. Army on December 14, 1960. His time in the military had a significant impact on his perspective and life trajectory.
January 1961: Moving to East Palo Alto and Connecting with the Music Scene
In January 1961, Jerry Garcia traveled to East Palo Alto and reconnected with his friend Laird Grant. He spent time living with friends and became a part of the local music scene at the Chateau, a boarding house near Stanford University, where his musical talent was recognized and encouraged.
February 20, 1961: Garcia's Near-Fatal Car Accident
On February 20, 1961, Jerry Garcia was involved in a serious car accident in Palo Alto, California. The car, driven by Lee Adams, crashed after speeding at 90 mph. Garcia was ejected through the windshield but miraculously only suffered a broken collarbone. Sadly, Paul Speegle, another passenger, was fatally injured.
April 1961: Meeting Robert Hunter and Early Musical Explorations
In April 1961, Garcia met Robert Hunter, who would become a lifelong friend and the lyricist for the Grateful Dead. They immersed themselves in the South Bay and San Francisco art and music scenes, performing together for the first time at Kepler's Books in Menlo Park.
1962: Bluegrass Performances with the Sleepy Hollow Hog Stompers
Between 1962 and 1964, Garcia primarily played bluegrass, old-time, and folk music. He performed with the Sleepy Hollow Hog Stompers, a bluegrass group where he showcased his versatility on guitar, banjo, vocals, and harmonica.
1962: Collaboration with Phil Lesh and KPFA Radio
Garcia met Phil Lesh, the future bassist of the Grateful Dead, in 1962. They recorded traditional folk songs, which were featured on a KPFA radio special, "The Long Black Veil and Other Ballads: An Evening with Jerry Garcia", marking the beginning of the band's enduring relationship with the radio station.
April 23, 1963: Marriage to Sara Ruppenthal
Jerry Garcia married Sara Ruppenthal on April 23, 1963.
1963: Meeting Bob Weir
In 1963, Garcia was introduced to Bob Weir, another future member of the Grateful Dead, through their mutual friend Bob Matthews.
1964: Introduction to LSD and Formation of Mother McCree's Uptown Jug Champions
In 1964, Garcia first used LSD, an experience that profoundly impacted his outlook on life. That same year, he formed the jug band Mother McCree's Uptown Jug Champions with Bob Weir, Ron "Pigpen" McKernan, and other friends.
1965: The Birth of the Grateful Dead
Mother McCree's Uptown Jug Champions transitioned into the Warlocks in 1965, with the addition of Phil Lesh and Bill Kreutzmann. Upon discovering another band with the same name, they adopted the name "Grateful Dead", a phrase found in a dictionary, signifying a dead person showing gratitude to their benefactor.
1965: Beginning of the Grateful Dead's Extensive Touring Career
From their formation in 1965, the Grateful Dead embarked on near-constant touring until Garcia's death in 1995, playing an impressive 2,314 shows. While breaks were taken for health reasons and exhaustion, the band's dedication to live performance became legendary.
1965: Garcia's Early Guitar: Guild Starfire
In 1965, while performing with the Warlocks, Jerry Garcia used a Guild Starfire guitar, the same one featured on the Grateful Dead's debut album.
1965: Start of the Grateful Dead's 30-Year Career
Marking the beginning of an era, Jerry Garcia started performing with the Grateful Dead in 1965. This marked the start of their illustrious 30-year career, leaving a lasting impact on the music world.
1966: Carolyn Adams and Sunshine move in with Garcia
Carolyn "Mountain Girl" Adams, along with her daughter Sunshine, moved into 710 Ashbury with Jerry Garcia in late 1966.
October 2, 1967: Grateful Dead Raided at 710 Ashbury Street
On October 2, 1967, the Grateful Dead's residence at 710 Ashbury Street in San Francisco was raided. Though some members were arrested on marijuana charges, Garcia himself was not apprehended.
1967: Session Work and Contributions to Jefferson Airplane's "Surrealistic Pillow"
By mid-1967, Garcia had already established himself as a sought-after session musician, lending his talents to over 50 albums across genres. He notably contributed to Jefferson Airplane's seminal psychedelic rock album "Surrealistic Pillow", playing on tracks like "Today", "Plastic Fantastic Lover", and "Comin' Back to Me".
1967: Divorce from Sara Ruppenthal
Jerry Garcia and Sara Ruppenthal divorced in 1967.
1967: Garcia's Transition to Gibson Les Paul Guitars
Starting in late 1967, Jerry Garcia transitioned to playing black or gold mid-1950s Gibson Les Paul guitars equipped with P-90 pickups.
1968: Continued Use of Gibson Les Paul
Jerry Garcia continued to play black or gold mid-1950s Gibson Les Paul guitars equipped with P-90 pickups until 1968.
1969: Garcia's Pedal Steel Contributions
In 1969, Jerry Garcia showcased his pedal steel guitar skills on three notable recordings: "The Farm" by Jefferson Airplane, "Oh Mommy" by Brewer and Shipley, and "Teach Your Children" by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.
1969: Joining New Riders of the Purple Sage
Jerry Garcia started playing pedal steel guitar for the band New Riders of the Purple Sage in 1969.
1969: Garcia's Pedal Steel Exploration
From around 1969 to 1972, Jerry Garcia explored the pedal steel guitar, beginning with a Fender instrument before switching to the ZB Custom D-10. This period was dubbed his "pedal steel flirtation period" by Bob Weir.
1969: Exploring the Gibson SG
In 1969, Jerry Garcia began playing a Gibson SG guitar, which became his primary instrument for that year and most of 1970. He briefly used a sunburst Fender Stratocaster during this period.
1969: Graham Nash Gifts Garcia a Stratocaster
In 1969, Graham Nash gifted Jerry Garcia a 1955 natural finish Stratocaster, which would later become known as the "Alligator."
January 1970: Grateful Dead Arrested in New Orleans
In January 1970, following a performance in New Orleans, several members of the Grateful Dead, their crew, and management were arrested in a drug raid at their hotel. Garcia, who arrived later, was not among those apprehended.
February 2, 1970: Birth of Annabelle Walker Garcia
Jerry Garcia's second daughter, Annabelle Walker Garcia, was born on February 2, 1970.
August 1970: Ruth Garcia's car accident
Jerry Garcia's mother, Ruth Garcia, was in a car crash near Twin Peaks, San Francisco, in August 1970.
September 28, 1970: Death of Ruth Garcia
Jerry Garcia's mother, Ruth Garcia, passed away on September 28, 1970, following a car accident.
1970: Gibson SG and Fender Stratocaster
For most of 1970, Jerry Garcia continued to favor the Gibson SG guitar but also played a sunburst Fender Stratocaster for a short time.
1970: Ambient Music Explorations and Film Soundtrack Contribution
Throughout the early 1970s, Garcia explored ambient music with collaborators like Ned Lagin, resulting in the album "Seastones" and the unfinished dance work "L". In 1970, he contributed to the soundtrack of the film "Zabriskie Point", showcasing his versatility beyond the Grateful Dead's music.
1970: Contribution to Brewer & Shipley's "Tarkio"
Jerry Garcia played pedal steel guitar on the album "Tarkio" by Brewer & Shipley in 1970.
1970: Release of 'Déjà Vu'
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's album "Déjà Vu," featuring Jerry Garcia's pedal steel guitar work on the song "Teach Your Children," was released in 1970. Garcia's contribution was a result of a trade-off, with Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young providing harmony lessons to the Grateful Dead during the recording of their album "Workingman's Dead."
April 1971: Garcia's Pedal Steel at Fillmore East
During his "pedal steel flirtation period," from approximately 1969 to 1972, Jerry Garcia played a ZB Custom D-10 pedal steel guitar, notably at the Grateful Dead's and New Riders of the Purple Sage's final performances at Fillmore East in April 1971. He utilized a specific configuration, using the E9 neck and pedals to manipulate the tone.
April 1971: 'Peanut' Guitar and Live Album Recording
In March and April 1971, during the recording of the Grateful Dead's second live album, "Grateful Dead," Jerry Garcia primarily played a sunburst Les Paul and a custom-built guitar named "Peanut." Crafted by Rick Turner, "Peanut" featured a unique body with a neck, pickups, and hardware from an early 1960s Les Paul.
October 1971: Departure from New Riders of the Purple Sage
In October 1971, Jerry Garcia left the band New Riders of the Purple Sage due to increasing commitments with the Grateful Dead.
1972: End of Pedal Steel Exploration
Around 1972, Jerry Garcia's "pedal steel flirtation period" came to an end.
1972: Purchasing 'Eagle' and Commissioning 'Wolf'
In late 1972, Jerry Garcia acquired his first Alembic guitar, "Eagle," from Doug Irwin for $850. Impressed by Irwin's craftsmanship, he immediately commissioned a custom instrument, which would later be known as "Wolf."
1972: Brief Return to Sunburst Stratocaster
While his "Alligator" guitar was being repaired in the summer of 1972, Jerry Garcia briefly returned to using a sunburst Stratocaster, as seen in the film "Sunshine Daydream."
March 1973: Meeting Deborah Koons
Jerry Garcia met Deborah Koons at a Grateful Dead engagement at Long Island's Nassau Coliseum in March 1973.
May 1973: Arrival of 'Wolf' Guitar
In May 1973, Doug Irwin, an Alembic luthier, delivered a custom-built guitar nicknamed "Wolf" to Jerry Garcia. This guitar, costing $1,500, replaced Garcia's "Alligator" on stage in September of the same year.
August 1973: 'Alligator' Stratocaster's Reign Ends
Jerry Garcia's use of the "Alligator" Stratocaster, his main electric guitar from May 1971, ended in August 1973.
1973: Garcia Adopts McIntosh MC 2300 Amplifier
In 1973, influenced by sound technician Owsley Stanley, Jerry Garcia began using a McIntosh MC 2300 amplifier, a pivotal moment in shaping his signature guitar tone.
September 21, 1974: Birth of Theresa Adams "Trixie" Garcia
Jerry Garcia's third daughter, Theresa Adams "Trixie" Garcia, was born on September 21, 1974.
1974: Release of "Home, Home on the Road"
The live album "Home, Home on the Road" by New Riders of the Purple Sage, featuring Jerry Garcia, was released in 1974.
1974: Beginning of Relationship with Deborah Koons
Jerry Garcia began a relationship with Deborah Koons in mid-1974.
1974: 'Budman' Amplifier Emerges
In 1974, Jerry Garcia's McIntosh MC 2300 amplifier was adorned with a Budweiser Budman sticker, giving rise to its nickname, "Budman." This unique marking distinguished it as Garcia's primary amplifier within the Grateful Dead's Wall of Sound.
1974: Garcia's Introduction to Heroin
Garcia's experimentation with heroin began in 1974 at a brothel, marking the beginning of a struggle with addiction that would last for years.
1974: 'Wolf' Damaged, Travis Bean Guitars Used
During the Grateful Dead's 1974 European tour, Jerry Garcia's "Wolf" guitar sustained damage, including a crack in the headstock. While it underwent repairs, Garcia primarily played Travis Bean guitars, such as the TB1000A and TB500.
1975: Introduction to "Persian Base"
During the band's hiatus in 1975, Garcia was introduced to a potent, smokeable form of heroin known as "Persian" or "Persian Base," further deepening his addiction.
1975: Separation from Carolyn Adams
Jerry Garcia and Carolyn Adams ended their cohabitation at 710 Asbury in 1975.
1975: Separation from Carolyn Adams, Move with Deborah Koons
Jerry Garcia left Carolyn Adams to be with Deborah Koons in late 1975.
1975: Garcia Plays Travis Bean TB1000A
Jerry Garcia played a Travis Bean TB1000A guitar in 1975, during the period when his "Wolf" guitar was undergoing repairs.
1976: Garcia Plays Travis Bean TB500
From 1976 to 1977, Jerry Garcia played a Travis Bean TB500 guitar while his "Wolf" guitar was being repaired.
September 28, 1977: 'Wolf' Guitar Returns with Upgrades
On September 28, 1977, Doug Irwin returned the refurbished "Wolf" guitar to Jerry Garcia. The repairs included fixing a crack in the headstock, inlaying the wolf sticker, adding an effects loop, and replacing the headstock face with Irwin's logo.
1977: End of Relationship with Deborah Koons
Jerry Garcia and Deborah Koons ended their relationship in 1977.
1978: Grateful Dead's Chemistry Deteriorates
By 1978, the Grateful Dead's internal dynamics were severely strained. Years of drug use, financial woes, and personal conflicts led to a decline in group cohesion.
1978: Carolyn Adams Moves to Oregon with Children
Carolyn Adams relocated with her children to the Eugene, Oregon area, in 1978.
1978: Meeting Manasha Matheson
Jerry Garcia became friends with Manasha Matheson, a student at Shimer College, in the fall of 1978.
February 1979: Keith and Donna Jean Godchaux Leave Grateful Dead
After a period of internal turbulence fueled by substance abuse and creative tensions, Keith and Donna Jean Godchaux left the Grateful Dead in February 1979.
August 4, 1979: Jerry Garcia Debuts "Tiger" Guitar
On August 4, 1979, Jerry Garcia played his newly acquired custom-made guitar, nicknamed "Tiger," for the first time during a Grateful Dead concert at the Oakland Auditorium Arena.
1980: Beginning of Affair with Amy Moore
Jerry Garcia's affair with Amy Moore began around 1980.
December 31, 1981: Marriage to Carolyn Adams
Jerry Garcia and Carolyn Adams officially married on December 31, 1981.
1981: End of Affair with Amy Moore
Jerry Garcia's affair with Amy Moore ended around 1981.
1983: Garcia's Onstage Demeanor Shifts
By 1983, Garcia's stage presence noticeably changed. While still playing with fervor, there were moments of detachment. Years of smoking affected his voice, and his weight gain was evident.
1984: Garcia's Physical Strain Becomes Apparent
Garcia's physical struggles were more apparent in 1984. He often rested his chin on the microphone while performing, reflecting the toll of the band's demanding schedule and lifestyle.
1984: Dismissal of Rock Scully
Rock Scully, Garcia's housemate and manager of the Jerry Garcia Band, was dismissed from the Grateful Dead organization in 1984.
January 1985: Garcia Enters Rehabilitation
After an intervention by his bandmates in January 1985, Garcia agreed to enter a rehabilitation facility in Oakland, California, choosing the band over his addiction.
July 1986: Garcia's Diabetic Coma
In July 1986, due to a combination of poor health, dehydration, and a relapse, Garcia slipped into a diabetic coma for five days. The experience had a profound impact, leading him to relearn basic skills, including playing the guitar.
1986: Garcia Achieves Sobriety
By the spring of 1986, with support from Nora Sage and through diligent effort, Garcia successfully overcame his drug dependency.
1986: Garcia's Diabetic Coma
In 1986, Jerry Garcia experienced a diabetic coma, marking a significant health challenge in his life.
1986: Jerry Garcia's Diabetic Coma
In 1986, Jerry Garcia faced a serious health challenge when he slipped into a diabetic coma, nearly costing him his life. This incident brought to light his struggles with diabetes and the impact it had on his health.
December 20, 1987: Birth of Keelin Noel Garcia
Jerry Garcia and Manasha Matheson welcomed their daughter, Keelin Noel Garcia, on December 20, 1987.
1987: Ben & Jerry's Introduces "Cherry Garcia" Ice Cream
In 1987, Ben & Jerry's launched their "Cherry Garcia" ice cream flavor, a tribute to Jerry Garcia, marking the first instance of an ice cream flavor dedicated to a musician.
1987: Return to Pedal Steel Guitar
After a long break, Jerry Garcia played the pedal steel guitar again during several Grateful Dead concerts with Bob Dylan in the summer of 1987.
1987: Release of "In the Dark"
Following Garcia's recovery, the Grateful Dead released "In the Dark" in 1987. The album marked a triumphant comeback, becoming their best-selling studio work.
1988: Collaborations with Jazz Musicians and Exploration of World Music
In 1988, Garcia's passion for jazz improvisation led him to play on saxophonist Ornette Coleman's album "Virgin Beauty". He also collaborated extensively with jazz keyboardists Merl Saunders and Howard Wales. His work with Saunders and Muruga Booker on the album "Blues From the Rainforest" marked his foray into world music and launched the Rainforest Band.
1988: Benefit Performances
Jerry Garcia performed at several major benefit concerts in 1988, including the "Soviet American Peace Walk" and a benefit for Vietnam veteran Brian Willson.
1989: Representation by the Weir Gallery
Jerry Garcia's artwork began to be represented by the Weir Gallery in Berkeley, California, from 1989 onwards.
July 1990: Brent Mydland's Death
The death of keyboardist Brent Mydland from a drug overdose in July 1990 deeply affected Garcia and the band. Mydland's contributions were significant, and his passing marked a turning point.
August 17, 1990: Marriage to Manasha Matheson
Jerry Garcia and Manasha Matheson were married on August 17, 1990, in a spiritual ceremony at their home in San Anselmo, California.
1990: Jerry Garcia Receives Custom Guitar "Rosebud"
In 1990, luthier Doug Irwin finished crafting "Rosebud," Jerry Garcia's fourth custom guitar, featuring unique inlays, electronics, and a lighter weight than its predecessor, "Tiger."
1990: First Solo Art Show
Jerry Garcia had his first solo art show in 1990, sponsored by Roberta Weir.
1991: Interview in Rolling Stone
Jerry Garcia stated that he and Carolyn Adams "haven't really lived together since the Seventies" in a 1991 Rolling Stone interview.
1991: Garcia's Relapse and Intervention
Despite a period of renewed energy, Garcia relapsed into heroin use in 1991. The band intervened, leading to a difficult confrontation and Garcia's decision to seek help through a methadone clinic.
1991: Dedication of "Paintings, Drawings and Sketches"
Jerry Garcia dedicated his first art book, "Paintings, Drawings and Sketches," to Manasha Matheson in 1991.
1992: Garcia's Health Deterioration and Recovery
After the Grateful Dead's 1992 summer tour, Jerry Garcia's health declined, reminiscent of his 1986 diabetic coma. His wife, Manasha Garcia, spearheaded his recovery with a team of healthcare professionals. Garcia recuperated at home, prompting the band to cancel their fall tour. During his recovery, he adopted a healthier lifestyle, quitting smoking, losing weight, and embracing vegetarianism.
January 1993: Barbara "Brigid" Meier Reenters Garcia's Life
In January 1993, Barbara "Brigid" Meier, a former girlfriend of Jerry Garcia's from the early 1960s, briefly reentered his life. Meier claimed Garcia considered her the "love of his life" and even proposed during a Hawaiian vacation shortly after their reunion.
1993: Jerry Garcia Acquires "Lightning Bolt" Guitar
In 1993, Jerry Garcia received a custom-made guitar, "Lightning Bolt," as a gift from aspiring luthier Stephen Cripe, which Garcia then used exclusively after having it modified to his liking.
1993: 'Budman' Retired, Marking an Era's End
In 1993, Jerry Garcia retired his iconic "Budman" amplifier, replacing it with a cab simulation system. This transition is often perceived as the end of a golden era for Garcia's distinctive guitar tone.
1993: Jerry Garcia's Perspective on Improvisation
In a 1993 interview with Rolling Stone, Jerry Garcia discussed his preference for improvisation in music, stating that it relieved stress and allowed for spontaneous decisions that he wouldn't have made intentionally. He viewed improvisation as a journey of exploration rather than a structured performance.
1993: Garcia Renews Acquaintance with Deborah Koons
In the spring of 1993, Jerry Garcia reconnected with Deborah Koons, whom he later married.
1993: Garcia's Declining Health
Jerry Garcia's physical and mental well-being deteriorated throughout 1993, leading him back to drug use as a coping mechanism.
February 14, 1994: Garcia Marries Deborah Koons
Jerry Garcia married Deborah Koons on February 14, 1994, in Sausalito, California. They remained married until his death.
1994: Jerry Garcia and the Grateful Dead Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Jerry Garcia, as a member of the Grateful Dead, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, although he chose not to attend the ceremony.
1994: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Jerry Garcia was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994 as a member of the Grateful Dead. He was recognized for his significant contributions to the music industry.
1994: Garcia's Declining Health
Jerry Garcia's physical and mental well-being continued to deteriorate in 1994, a period marked by his struggle with addiction and declining health.
1994: Divorce from Carolyn Adams
Jerry Garcia and Carolyn Adams got divorced in 1994.
April 1995: Jerry Garcia Acquires "Top Hat" Guitar
In April 1995, Jerry Garcia purchased a backup guitar, named "Top Hat," from luthier Stephen Cripe, who had also created Garcia's primary guitar, "Lightning Bolt."
July 1995: Garcia's Rehab and Passing
In July 1995, grappling with a relapse and deteriorating health, Jerry Garcia checked into the Betty Ford Center for a brief two-week stay. Seeking further treatment, he entered the Serenity Knolls treatment center in Forest Knolls, California, where he tragically passed away.
August 9, 1995: Death of Jerry Garcia
On August 9, 1995, at the age of 53, Jerry Garcia passed away from a heart attack while at a drug rehabilitation facility in California. He had struggled with diabetes, obesity, and addiction throughout his later life.
August 1995: Passing of Jerry Garcia
In August 1995, Jerry Garcia, aged 53, died from a heart attack while in a drug rehabilitation facility in California. Despite periods of improved health, he battled long-term heroin and cocaine addictions, along with obesity and smoking.
1995: Clashing Claims at Garcia's Funeral
At Garcia's funeral in 1995, multiple women, including Deborah Koons, Brigid Meier, and Manon Ruppenthal, claimed to be the "love of his life," leading to a poignant and somewhat awkward moment.
1995: End of an Era: The Grateful Dead's Touring Legacy
The Grateful Dead's relentless touring schedule, spanning three decades, came to an end in 1995 with Jerry Garcia's death, marking the conclusion of one of the most prolific live music careers in history.
1995: Final Studio Collaboration with Sanjay Mishra
In 1995, Garcia's final studio collaboration took place during his work on three tracks for guitarist Sanjay Mishra's album "Blue Incantation", showcasing his enduring passion for music-making until the very end.
1995: End of the Grateful Dead's 30-Year Run
After an extraordinary journey, Jerry Garcia's time with the Grateful Dead ended in 1995 after a 30-year run. Their influence on music during that period was undeniable.
April 4, 1996: Garcia's Ashes Scattered
On April 4, 1996, following a total lunar eclipse, Bob Weir and Deborah Koons, along with Sanjay Mishra, scattered half of Jerry Garcia's ashes in the Ganges River at Rishikesh, India, a sacred site for Hindus. The remaining ashes were dispersed into the San Francisco Bay. Carolyn Garcia, his former wife, was not permitted to attend.
1996: End of Representation by the Weir Gallery
The Weir Gallery in Berkeley, California, stopped representing Jerry Garcia's artwork in 1996.
2000: Animated Sitcom "God, the Devil and Bob" Sparks Controversy
In 2000, NBC aired "God, the Devil and Bob," an animated sitcom featuring a "God" character inspired by Jerry Garcia, which faced criticism from religious groups and low viewership, leading to its cancellation after four episodes.
2001: Doug Irwin Wins Legal Battle for Ownership of Garcia's Guitars
In 2001, Doug Irwin, the luthier who built Jerry Garcia's iconic guitars, "Wolf" and "Tiger," emerged victorious from a legal battle against the remaining members of the Grateful Dead over the ownership of the instruments, as per Garcia's will.
2003: Jerry Garcia Ranked Among "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time"
In 2003, Rolling Stone magazine recognized Jerry Garcia's musical prowess by placing him at number 13 on their list of the "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time."
2003: Ranked 13th in Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest Guitarists
Jerry Garcia's exceptional guitar skills earned him a high rank of 13th on Rolling Stone's list of "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time" in 2003. This prestigious recognition solidified his legacy in the music industry.
July 30, 2004: First "The Grateful Garcia Gathering" Festival Held
On July 30, 2004, Melvin Seals, a former member of the Jerry Garcia Band (JGB), headlined the inaugural "The Grateful Garcia Gathering," an outdoor music and camping festival.
July 21, 2005: San Francisco Approves Naming Amphitheater After Jerry Garcia
On July 21, 2005, the San Francisco Recreation and Park Commission passed a resolution to name the amphitheater in McLaren Park as "The Jerry Garcia Amphitheater" in honor of the musician.
August 7, 2005: First Jerry Day Celebration at Jerry Garcia Amphitheater
On August 7, 2005, the Jerry Garcia Amphitheater in San Francisco hosted its first event, Jerry Day, a yearly celebration of Garcia's life and music held in his childhood neighborhood.
September 24, 2005: Comes a Time: A Celebration of the Music & Spirit of Jerry Garcia
On September 24, 2005, a tribute concert celebrating the music and spirit of Jerry Garcia was held at the Hearst Greek Theatre in Berkeley, California. The concert, titled "Comes a Time: A Celebration of the Music & Spirit of Jerry Garcia," featured performances by numerous renowned artists including Bob Weir, Bill Kreutzmann, Mickey Hart, Bruce Hornsby, Trey Anastasio, Warren Haynes, Jimmy Herring, Michael Kang, Jay Lane, Jeff Chimenti, Mark Karan, Robin Sylvester, Kenny Brooks, Melvin Seals, Merl Saunders, Marty Holland, Stu Allen, Gloria Jones, and Jackie LaBranch.
October 29, 2005: Official Dedication of the Jerry Garcia Amphitheater
The Jerry Garcia Amphitheater in San Francisco was officially dedicated on October 29, 2005, with a ceremony officiated by Mayor Gavin Newsom, further cementing Garcia's legacy in the city.
2007: David Kemper Joins Melvin Seals and JGB
In 2007, David Kemper, the drummer for the Jerry Garcia Band, joined Melvin Seals and the JGB, keeping the spirit of Garcia's music alive.
July 26, 2008: "Dead Symphony: Lee Johnson Symphony No. 6."
On July 26, 2008, Georgia-based composer Lee Johnson released a unique orchestral tribute to the music of the Grateful Dead, titled "Dead Symphony: Lee Johnson Symphony No. 6." The symphony, recorded with the renowned Russian National Orchestra, showcased Johnson's admiration for Garcia's musical genius. Johnson was interviewed on NPR's "Weekend Edition" on the same day, during which he praised the craft and ingenuity of Garcia's songwriting.
2010: Jerry Garcia Glen Opening
In 2010, the Santa Barbara Bowl in California honored Jerry Garcia by opening the Jerry Garcia Glen, a dedicated space along the pathway leading up to the venue. A notable feature of the glen is a statue depicting Garcia's right hand.
May 14, 2015: Dear Jerry
On May 14, 2015, a star-studded lineup of musicians gathered at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland for "Dear Jerry," a special tribute concert honoring the musical legacy of Jerry Garcia.
2015: The Jerry Garcia Foundation Launch
In 2015, Manasha Garcia, Jerry Garcia's wife, and their daughter, Keelin Garcia, established The Jerry Garcia Foundation. This nonprofit organization is committed to supporting projects in the areas of art, environmentalism, and humanitarian aid. The foundation's board comprises prominent figures including Bob Weir, Peter Shapiro, Glenn Fischer, Irwin Sternberg, Daniel Shiner, TRI Studios CEO Christopher McCutcheon, and Fender Music Foundation Executive Director Lynn Robison.
2015: Ranked 46th in Rolling Stone's Updated List
In 2015, Rolling Stone's revised "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time" list placed Jerry Garcia at number 46, still acknowledging his significant influence and talent.
2015: Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction
Jerry Garcia and his longtime collaborator, Robert Hunter, were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2015. Hunter accepted the award in person, while Garcia's daughter, Trixie Garcia, accepted the honor on behalf of her late father.
May 2017: Jerry Garcia's "Wolf" Guitar Auctioned for Charity
In May 2017, Jerry Garcia's "Wolf" guitar was auctioned again, this time for charity, with the proceeds donated to the Southern Poverty Law Center. Brian Halligan placed the winning bid of $1.9 million.
2017: Red Roses, Green Gold
In 2017, an off-Broadway musical titled "Red Roses, Green Gold" premiered, featuring the music of Jerry Garcia and Robert Hunter. The production, staged at the Minetta Lane Theatre in New York City, incorporated additional music by Phil Lesh, Bob Weir, and Mickey Hart, along with contributions from Hunter's frequent collaborator, Greg Anton. The musical, directed and choreographed by Rachel Klein, featured a book by Michael Norman Mann and had Jeff Chimenti as the music supervisor.
2018: Jerry Garcia Music Arts Launch
Keelin Garcia and Manasha Garcia, members of Jerry Garcia's family, established the Jerry Garcia Music Arts, an independent record label, in 2018.
June 23, 2019: John Mayer Plays Jerry Garcia's "Wolf" Guitar
On June 23, 2019, musician John Mayer played Jerry Garcia's "Wolf" guitar during a Dead & Company concert at Citi Field.
October 2021: 'Budman' Auctioned for Record Price
In October 2021, at a Sotheby's auction titled "From the Vault: Property from the Grateful Dead and Friends," Jerry Garcia's final stage rack, including his renowned McIntosh MC 2300 amplifier "Budman," was sold. The rack fetched $226,800, while "Budman" itself achieved a remarkable $378,000, underscoring its historical significance and legendary status among music aficionados.
November 18, 2021: Grateful Dead Biopic Announcement
On November 18, 2021, a forthcoming biopic about the Grateful Dead was revealed, with Jonah Hill set to portray Jerry Garcia. The film, written by Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski and directed by Martin Scorsese, is being produced for Apple TV+.
2023: 'Wolf' Guitar's Historical Value
In 2023, the value of Jerry Garcia's custom-built guitar, "Wolf," is equivalent to $10,300, highlighting the historical significance and craftsmanship of the instrument.
2023: Achieving 34th Rank on Rolling Stone's List
Jerry Garcia's legacy in the music world continues to be recognized, as seen in 2023 when Rolling Stone positioned him at number 34 on their updated list of "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time".
2023: Inflation Adjustment for Garcia's Drug Spending
This entry does not contain an event. It provides context on the present-day equivalent of Garcia's $700-a-day drug addiction in 2023, highlighting the financial burden of his habit.