Watch Long Strange Trip

Long Strange Trip is a fascinating six-part documentary series from Amazon Studios about one of the most influential bands in American musical history: The Grateful Dead. The series tells the story of the band from their early days in San Francisco in the 1960s through to their final performance in 1995. The series is narrated by executive producer Martin Scorsese and features interviews with members of the band, their friends, family, and associates, as well as rare footage and photographs. The central figures of the series are guitarist Jerry Garcia and bassist Phil Lesh, two of the founding members of the Grateful Dead. The series begins by exploring the cultural and political landscape of San Francisco in the 1960s, a time of great social upheaval and dissent. The Grateful Dead were at the forefront of the countercultural movement, and their music spoke to a generation of young people who rejected the norms and values of mainstream society. The series goes on to explore the band's musical evolution, from their early R&B and blues-influenced garage band sound to their signature style of improvisational rock. The Grateful Dead were famous for their long, meandering jams that could go on for hours, creating a unique musical experience for both the band and their fans. The series also delves into the personal lives of the band members, exploring their relationships, their struggles with addiction, and their creative process. Jerry Garcia, in particular, is portrayed as a complex individual with many facets to his personality. He was a brilliant musician, a charismatic performer, and a deeply troubled soul who struggled with drug addiction for much of his life. Throughout the series, the band's relationship with their fans is explored in depth. The Grateful Dead were famous for their tight-knit community of fans known as "Deadheads," who followed the band from show to show and created a unique culture around the band's music. The series explores the ways in which this community evolved over the years and the deep connection that fans felt with the band and their music. Ultimately, Long Strange Trip is a powerful tribute to the Grateful Dead and their impact on American musical culture. The series offers a compelling portrait of a band that was always on the cutting edge of musical innovation, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in rock music. It is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of American music and the countercultural movement of the 1960s and 70s.