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what songs did bob weir write

Bob Weir, rhythm guitarist for the Grateful Dead, co-wrote many iconic songs, often collaborating with lyricists like John Perry Barlow and Robert Hunter. His contributions shaped the band's eclectic sound, blending country, rock, and jam elements.

Key Songs Co-Written by Weir

Weir penned music for several Grateful Dead staples, frequently with Barlow's lyrics starting in the early 1970s. Highlights include:

  • Sugar Magnolia : From the 1970 album American Beauty , Weir handled music while Hunter wrote lyrics; it became a live favorite for its upbeat vibe.
  • Mexicali Blues : Debuted on Weir's 1972 solo album Ace (with Dead members), later adopted by the band; inspired by Marty Robbins' "El Paso."
  • Truckin' : A 1970 hit from American Beauty , co-written with Hunter—its "What a long strange trip it's been" line endures as a cultural mantra.
  • Estimated Prophet : From 1977's Terrapin Station , Weir's music with Barlow lyrics; known for psychedelic jams.
  • Hell in a Bucket : 1987's In the Dark track, topping charts as a Weir-Barlow rocker with satirical edge.

Chart and Live Impact

Weir's tunes often charted via Grateful Dead releases. Music VF ranks his top writing credits: Hell in a Bucket (#1), Truckin' (#2), Bombs Away (#3), Music Never Stopped (#4), Throwing Stones (#5). Fans on Reddit praise deep cuts like Black-Throated Wind, Cassidy, and Looks Like Rain for Weir's rhythmic drive.

Collaborations and Solo Work

Weir teamed with Barlow for over 20 Dead songs post-Ace , including Cassidy and Weather Report Suite. Solo efforts like Heaven Help the Fool (1978) and Bobby and the Midnites tracks (e.g., Too Many Losers) expand his catalog. Forums note his ad-lib style sparked Barlow's involvement after a Hunter spat.

Fan Perspectives

Grateful Dead Reddit threads buzz with Weir love—users list top-10s like Playin' in the Band (debated as his?) and Lost Sailor. As of 2025 discussions, his wit shines in stories, but songwriting legacy dominates.

TL;DR : Weir co-wrote 20+ Dead classics like Truckin', Sugar Magnolia, and Estimated Prophet, mostly with Barlow; check Ace for origins.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.