“Box of Rain” was written by Grateful Dead bassist Phil Lesh (music) and lyricist Robert Hunter (words).

Quick Scoop

  • The song “Box of Rain” appears on the Grateful Dead’s 1970 album American Beauty.
  • Phil Lesh composed the music and vocal melody outline, and Robert Hunter wrote the lyrics.
  • Lesh wanted a song he could sing to his dying father, which shaped the emotional tone of the piece.

A Bit More Context

  • Robert Hunter later explained that “box of rain” was his phrase for the world we live on, noting that “ball of rain” didn’t sound right to his ear.
  • The song has since become one of the Grateful Dead’s most beloved tracks, often highlighted for its reflective, tender mood and imagery.

TL;DR: “Box of Rain” is a Grateful Dead song from American Beauty , with music by Phil Lesh and lyrics by Robert Hunter.

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