Typical Blaxbloitation sound with the divine guitar of Curtis completing it. Makes me wish i were born black and living in NY in the 70's. Mayfield's finest hour for sure.
Written for Phil Lesh's dying father, this song flows beautifully, and is moving and poignant with an unorthodox melody. The opening track of the Grateful Dead's best and most beautiful album, and proof that you don't need to take drugs to enjoy the band.