Remembering Pigpen: The Grateful Dead's Blues Maestro and Rare Guitar Performance
Ron ‘Pigpen’ McKernan, the original frontman of the Grateful Dead, played a crucial role in the band's transition from a jug band to an electric rock outfit. Despite his tough image, Pigpen was known to be gentle and caring. He had a fondness for acoustic blues and was averse to psychedelic drugs, even though the band embodied the psychedelic experience. Pigpen's presence and blues conviction set him apart within the Dead's evolving sound.
While the Grateful Dead moved towards longform psychedelia, Pigpen's roots in blues and covers remained a significant part of the band's identity. His performances, like 'Katie Mae,' offered a glimpse into the band's early days and his foundational role. When the Dead introduced acoustic sets in 1970, Pigpen showcased his skills on the guitar, a rare departure from his usual keyboard and harmonica performances.
During a performance at the Fillmore East in 1970, Pigpen surprised his bandmates by playing the guitar on stage for the first and only time. His impromptu performance inspired other band members to pick up acoustic guitars as well. The acoustic sets allowed Pigpen to revisit his favorite blues tunes and showcase his versatility as a musician.
Pigpen's rendition of 'Katie Mae' at the Fillmore East became a memorable moment in the band's history. The performance was captured on the official Grateful Dead release, 'History of the Grateful Dead, Volume One (Bear’s Choice),' which served as a tribute to Pigpen following his passing. His unique contribution to the band's sound and his rare guitar performance continue to be celebrated by fans and music enthusiasts.
Witness the rare moment of Pigpen playing the guitar in the video below.