The Grateful Dead

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Red and white, blue suede shoes
I'm Uncle Sam, how do you do?
Give me five, I'm still alive
Ain't no luck, I learned to duck
Check my pulse, it don't change
Stay seventy-two come shine or rain
Wave the flag, pop the bag
Rock the boat, skin the goat

[Chorus]
Wave that flag, wave it wide and high
Summertime done, come and gone, my, oh, my

[Verse 2]
I'm Uncle Sam, that's who I am
Been hiding out in a rock and roll band
Shake the hand that shook the hand of P.T. Barnum and Charlie Chan
Shine your shoes, light your fuse
Can you use them old U.S. Blues?
I'll drink your health, share your wealth
Run your life, steal your wife

[Chorus]
Wave that flag, wave it wide and high
Summertime done, come and gone, my, oh, my
[Bridge]
Back to back chicken shack
Son of a gun, better change your act
We're all confused, what's to lose?
You can call this song the United States Blues

[Chorus]
Wave that flag, wave it wide and high
Summertime done, come and gone, my, oh, my
My my my oh my my my my
Summertime done, come and gone, my

If you're a fan of the iconic American rock band, The Grateful Dead, then you've definitely heard their classic song, "U.S. Blues." Released in 1974, this track served as a reflection of the political atmosphere during that time, where the impending impeachment of then-President Richard Nixon was becoming a reality rather than a fantasy. Written by Robert Hunter, the band's primary lyricist, "U.S. Blues" is a masterful blend of pop culture references, cynicism, and patriotism.

One of the most fascinating aspects of "U.S. Blues" is how it captures the essence of the era it was born in. The early 1970s were marked by a political climate marred by scandals and social unrest, and this song encapsulates that perfectly. The lyrics seep with a mixture of biting cynicism towards authority and a love for their country, creating a potent concoction of emotions that resonates even decades later.

The debut of "U.S. Blues" in its final form occurred during a series of three live performances at Winterland in February 1974. The song shared this milestone with another Grateful Dead classic, "Ship of Fools," adding to the significance of those nights. It's as if the band wanted to deliver a powerful message to their audience, using their music as a vehicle for social commentary and cultural reflection.

Robert Hunter's lyrics in "U.S. Blues" cleverly intertwine pop icons, cynicism, and patriotism. He skillfully incorporates references to American icons such as Mickey Mouse, Coca-Cola, and John Wayne, satirizing the consumerist society while also revealing a deep affection for the country's cultural heritage. This unique blend of elements is what sets The Grateful Dead apart from other bands of their time and solidifies their legacy as pioneers in both music and lyrical storytelling.

Listening to "U.S. Blues" is like taking a trip back in time to the politically charged atmosphere of the 1970s. The song serves as a reminder of the power of music to reflect and comment on the social and political issues of its time. It is a testament to The Grateful Dead's ability to capture the spirit of an era while also creating a timeless piece of music that continues to resonate with audiences today.

About U.S. Blues

"U.S. Blues" is more than just a song; it is a cultural artifact that encapsulates the political and social climate of 1974. As mentioned earlier, this track emerged during a period when the possibility of a presidential impeachment became an imminent reality. The Grateful Dead used their platform to comment on the state of the nation, using their music as a medium for social critique and introspection.

Robert Hunter's lyrics in "U.S. Blues" are an essential component of what makes the song so compelling. His ability to interweave American pop culture icons with themes of cynicism and patriotism demonstrates a keen understanding of the socio-political landscape of the time. The lyrics tackle themes of disillusionment, discontent with authority, and a desire for change, all while maintaining a sense of love and admiration for the country.

The juxtaposition of cynicism and patriotism within "U.S. Blues" is particularly noteworthy. On one hand, the song invites listeners to question and critique the flaws of their society, represented through the references to consumerism and cultural icons. On the other hand, it instills a sense of pride and love for the United States, celebrating its rich history and cultural heritage.

The debut of "U.S. Blues" coinciding with "Ship of Fools" during those three nights at Winterland in February 1974 added significance to both songs. This time served as a turning point in The Grateful Dead's career, where they solidified their reputation as a band willing to tackle controversial topics head-on and use their music as a form of socio-political commentary.

The lasting impact of "U.S. Blues" lies not only in its historical context but also in its ability to resonate with audiences across different generations. The themes of political disillusionment, social unrest, and the pursuit of a better future are universal, making the song as relevant today as it was in the 1970s. It serves as a reminder of the power of music to capture the essence of an era and provoke thought and reflection among its listeners.

In essence, "U.S. Blues" stands as a testament to the artistic and social relevance of The Grateful Dead. The band's ability to create music that transcends time and space showcases their enduring legacy as both musicians and cultural influencers. "U.S. Blues" is a fitting representation of a generation grappling with political turmoil, and its message continues to resonate with audiences who seek to understand and engage with the complexities of their own time.

• Release Date: June 27, 1974
• Artist: The Grateful Dead