Random Dead song fact - Big River

[John A]

Big river debuted on New Year’s Eve 1971, with Garcia taking one of the verses on lead vocal and singing duet with Bobby on a couple others.  It wouldn’t show up again for 49 shows, at Boston music hall in the fall of ‘72.  After which it was played virtually every show up through the hiatus and a bit thereafter. 

 

As an aside, 12-31-71 also marked the first appearance by Donna on vocals.

 

Thanks, Count2, for the easy to look up song stats!

[bs69]

Over the holidays I was going through and listening to all the new years shows. The 71' show is one of my favorites. Last with Pigpen, that kick ass Dancin to start the festivities. Just a great show all around. Didn't realize that was the first Big River,  always a great first set dance-a-thon. Guess they decided it fit Bobby best like Promised Land,  I think it was the right call