![]() Bringing us not just through word into the depth of music, but also through vision to the depths of existence-the majesty of which eclipses any perspective of petty concern. ![]() The words, avidly interpreted and reinterpreted by generations of Deadheads, become accretions of meaning and cultural flavor rather than static assertions of intent.”īarlow’s vast view and comprehension of being was a true testament to his illustrious mind. “ Like other living things, they grow and metamorphose over time. (May as well count the angels dancing on a pin.) “ Grateful Dead songs are alive,” says Barlow. This is not merely the work of a lyricist, but also that of an artist, a visionary, a philosopher, a man one whose legacy has become a living, thriving embodiment, within the often coined, “jam-band scene.” But we all know, collectively we’re more than any name could imply. In offering metaphorical understanding for which to grasp our existence, John Perry Barlow revealed a wonderfully expansive mind, filled with paths into being, illuminating fluid ways of perceiving reality, bringing a richer, more joyous experience to this grand existence we call life. “ Hell, we thought it had been a long, strange trip in 1969! We didn’t know from long or strange, as things turned out,” chuckles Barlow. By taking up residence in the fabric of our being-his words have become a permanent blooming force within this flower we call, family. ![]() Who could have imagined at the time where a chance meeting at a prep school would lead? Who can even fathom the infinite pieces that formed the Grateful Dead, and the subsequent community? Yet we all know, without Barlow, we would not be enjoying the blossom the Dead have become today. “ If the song is any good, it detaches from its apparent source and enters into the hearts and minds of those who hear it to make its own home there.” Sometimes, out on the road, penniless and hungry, when “the compass card is spinning, and the helm is swinging to and fro,” all we had was the shelter of John Barlow’s words. Or perhaps it was when the world became too big in its overwhelming awe, and suddenly, there was “Let It Grow” making life beautiful and okay again. Maybe it was on some stretch of highway between Minnesota and Ohio, where you stopped, confused as to whether you had blown it all. And while the ripples of his life will far surpass the sorrowful emotion of his passing, in the coming months, we are all destined to find ourselves acknowledging Barlow’s intricately intertwined existence within each of us. John Perry Barlow, long time lyricist for the Grateful Dead, and later, The String Cheese Incident, passed away quietly in his sleep, February 7th, 2018. Robert Hunter recalls, “Enter, John Barlow, in Pecos Bill getup, silk kerchief, and Stetson hat, as befit a Wyoming ranch boss and author of the lyrics to ‘Mexicali Blues.’ Billy goats together, only he knew Weir well enough to butt horns with him, part friends, and do it again.” And then, always, the sun breaks through again.” John Barlow
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