"Shakedown Street" by Grateful...

Explore the Grateful Dead's "Shakedown Street," a 1978 track that breaks new ground with its fusion of pop rock, roots rock, blues rock, disco, and funk rock. This song stands out in their catalog, offering a unique groove and a peek into the band's evolving sound during the late 70s.

Released in 1978 as the title track of their tenth studio album, "Shakedown Street" represented a stylistic shift for the Grateful Dead. Produced by Lowell George of Little Feat, the song incorporates prominent disco and funk rock elements, a departure from their earlier roots rock and psychedelic sound. This blend, however, is still underpinned by their blues rock foundation and pop rock accessibility.

The recording captures a slicker, more polished sound than some of their earlier work, reflecting the late 70s production trends. Despite its different feel, "Shakedown Street" became a fan favorite, particularly in live performances where its extended jam potential allowed the band to fully explore its funky rhythms and bluesy undertones, showcasing their versatile musicianship.

SONG MEANING: The song's lyrics, penned by Robert Hunter, are open to interpretation but are often seen as a commentary on the Grateful Dead scene itself, particularly the area outside venues where fans would gather, vend, and interact (which eventually became known as "Shakedown Street"). It speaks to looking beyond surface appearances and finding the true "heart" of the community despite perceived darkness or criticism, possibly also a response to critics of the band's evolving sound.