Robert Hunter

Robert Hunter (1941–2019) was the Grateful Dead’s primary lyricist from 1967 through the band’s dissolution in 1995. He wrote the words for almost every Garcia-sung song, including Dark Star, Ripple, Scarlet Begonias, Truckin’, Friend of the Devil, and dozens more. Hunter rarely toured with the Dead but was considered a full member of the band’s creative partnership. Articles cover his lyrics, his books, his solo work, and his unique place in American songwriting.

Songs & Music

How Bob Marley’s Rejection Led to “Scarlet Begonias” — and the Greatest Grateful Dead Segue
ByTheShakedownArchives November 1, 2025April 29, 2026

The Grateful Dead wrote “Scarlet Begonias” after failing to land a Bob Marley collaboration — and it became half of their most iconic song pairing.

Read More How Bob Marley’s Rejection Led to “Scarlet Begonias” — and the Greatest Grateful Dead Segue
Songs & Music

Truckin’: How a New Orleans Drug Bust Became the Grateful Dead’s National Anthem
ByTheShakedownArchives October 16, 2025April 29, 2026

“Truckin'” was born from a real drug bust in New Orleans, became the Dead’s only charting single, and was declared a national treasure by the Library of Congress.

Read More Truckin’: How a New Orleans Drug Bust Became the Grateful Dead’s National Anthem
Songs & Music

Box of Rain: The Inside Story of the Grateful Dead’s Last Words Together
ByTheShakedownArchives October 6, 2025April 29, 2026

“Box of Rain” was the first song Phil Lesh ever sang — written while his father was dying. It became the last song the Grateful Dead ever played.

Read More Box of Rain: The Inside Story of the Grateful Dead’s Last Words Together