Living with the Dead: Twenty Years on the Bus with Garcia and the Grateful Dead : Book Review

"Living with the Dead" by Rock Scully is an enthralling memoir that takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant counterculture movement of the 1960s and 70s. Scully, the long-time manager of the legendary rock band, the Grateful Dead, shares his personal experiences and provides an intimate account of his time with the iconic group and their dedicated fanbase.

The memoir delves deep into the evolution of the Grateful Dead, tracing their humble beginnings as a Bay Area band to their rise as one of the most influential acts in rock history. Scully offers readers an insider's perspective on the band members' unique personalities, their exceptional approach to music, and the numerous challenges they faced along the way. His storytelling style is compelling, painting a vivid picture of the highs and lows of life on the road with the Dead.

Furthermore, Scully explores the profound impact of the counterculture movement on society during this transformative era. He delves into topics such as communal living, the prevalence of drugs, and the prevailing sense of freedom and rebellion that defined the time. Through his personal experiences, Scully provides a captivating glimpse into the profound power of music and the tight-knit community that formed around the Grateful Dead.

What truly sets "Living with the Dead" apart is Scully's unfiltered honesty and candidness. He fearlessly shares his own struggles, including his battle with addiction and the toll that the music industry took on his mental and physical well-being. This raw vulnerability adds depth to the memoir, making it a compelling read for both die-hard Grateful Dead fans and those intrigued by the counterculture movement.

In summary, "Living with the Dead" is a riveting memoir that delivers a unique and personal perspective on one of the most iconic bands in rock history. Scully's captivating storytelling, coupled with his insightful reflections, allows readers to vividly experience the time and understand the lasting impact of the Grateful Dead. Whether you're a dedicated Deadhead or simply fascinated by this transformative era, this memoir is an absolute must-read.

What are readers saying?

Living with the Dead, a memoir by Rock Scully, dives deep into his experiences as the manager of the legendary rock band, the Grateful Dead. The book has received a range of opinions from readers. Many praised Scully's ability to provide an insider's perspective on the band's journey through the highs and lows of fame. They appreciated the detailed accounts of the band's performances and interactions with other musicians, as well as the vibrant depiction of the music scene during the 1960s and 1970s. Scully's passion for the music and the band was evident throughout the book, making it an engaging read.

Several readers highlighted the book's unique and personal look into the lives of the band members. Scully vividly portrays their quirks, strengths, and the complex dynamics that existed among them. His portrayal of Jerry Garcia, the band's lead guitarist, was especially captivating, shedding light on both his musical brilliance and personal struggles. This aspect of the book resonated with many readers, drawing them further into the narrative.

On the other hand, some readers were disappointed with the book. They felt that Scully's writing lacked depth and failed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Grateful Dead's historical significance. The narrative was criticized for being disjointed and confusing, making it difficult to follow the chronological order of events. Some readers also felt that there were too many tangential anecdotes that detracted from the main story, making it repetitive and self-indulgent.

In summary, Living with the Dead by Rock Scully received mixed reviews from readers. While many praised its insider's perspective and engaging storytelling, others felt that it lacked depth and coherence. If you're a fan of the Grateful Dead or have an interest in the rock music scene of the 1960s and 1970s, this book can offer fascinating insights. However, if you're looking for a comprehensive biography or a well-structured narrative, this may not be the book for you.