The Grateful Dead were a rock band known for their live shows, extended jams, and mix of rock, folk, country, and blues.
They formed in 1965 and gained fame for building a loyal fan base known as Deadheads. Their music stood out for its free-flowing style and rich storytelling.
The band never relied on hit singles but became a huge part of music history through extensive touring. In 2007, they won a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Although their sound evolved over the years, their love for music remained strong. The Grateful Dead remain one of the most respected and beloved bands in the rock genre.
About the Song
Fire on the Mountain paints a picture of growing tension and danger. It uses the image of a mountain on fire to show how things can go out of control if no one acts in time.
The song warns about ignoring danger (there’s a dragon with matches loose on the town) and invites movement. Its lively beat, catchy chorus, and Garcia’s spirited guitar made it a fan favorite.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | November 15, 1978 |
| Album | Dave’s Picks Vol. 12 |
| Writers | Robert Hunter & Mickey Hart |
| Producer | Lowell George |
Complete Lyrics of Fire on the Mountain
Verse 1
Long distance runner, what you standin there for?
Get up, get out, get out of the door
You’re playin cold music on the barroom floor
Drowned in your laughter and dead to the core
There’s a dragon with matches that’s loose on the town
Takes a whole pail of water just to cool him down
Chorus
Fire! Fire on the mountain!
Fire! Fire on the mountain!
Fire! Fire on the mountain!
Fire! Fire on the mountain!
Verse 2
Almost ablaze still you don’t feel the heat
It takes all you got just to stay on the beat
You say it’s a livin, we all gotta eat
But you’re here alone, there’s no one to compete
If mercy’s a business, I wish it for you
More than just ashes when your dreams come true
Chorus
Fire! Fire on the mountain!
Fire! Fire on the mountain!
Fire! Fire on the mountain!
Fire! Fire on the mountain!
Verse 3
Long distance runner, what you holdin out for?
Caught in slow motion in a dash for the door
The flame from your stage has now spread to the floor
You gave all you had. why you wanna give more?
The more that you give, the more it will take
To the thin line beyond which you really can’t fake
Chorus
Fire! Fire on the mountain!
Fire! Fire on the mountain!
Fire! Fire on the mountain!
Fire! Fire on the mountain!
Live Performance of Fire on the Mountain
1. Live Performance at Oakland Stadium (5/27/1989)
2. Live Performance at New York, NY (10/31/80)
3. Live Performance at Giza, Egypt (9/15, 16/1978)
Similar Songs Like Fire on the Mountain
Here are other songs by the Grateful Dead that share a similar vibe to Fire on the Mountain:
- Estimated Prophet: A smooth, groove-driven track with thoughtful lyrics by Robert Hunter and a layered, jazzy rhythm led by Jerry Garcia’s guitar.
- Althea: This song combines a bright beat and clear vocals; Jerry Garcia’s guitar and Hunter’s words tell a direct, relatable story.
- Uncle John’s Band: An upbeat acoustic tune celebrating togetherness, it features warm harmonies and easy guitar picking.
- Box of Rain: Gentle piano and soft acoustics under Phil Lesh’s voice make this piece soothing and heartfelt.
Similar Bands Like The Grateful Band
Many bands share the same lively sound and free style that made the Grateful Dead so special:
-
Phish
Genre: Jam band, rock
Top Albums: Junta (1989), A Picture of Nectar (1992) -
The Allman Brothers Band
Genre: Southern rock, blues rock
Top Albums: Eat a Peach (1972), At Fillmore East (1971) -
Railroad Earth
Genre: Folk rock, progressive bluegrass
Top Albums: Bird in a House (2001), Elko (2006) -
Widespread Panic
Genre: Southern rock, jam band
Top Albums: ’Til the Medicine Takes (1999), Ain’t Life Grand (1994) -
New Riders of the Purple Sage
Genre: Country rock, progressive country
Top Albums: New Riders of the Purple Sage (1971), Powerglide (1972)
Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes Fire on the Mountain a Concert Favorite?
Its groove, easy rhythm, and jam-friendly nature make it a standout during live Grateful Dead performances.
How does Fire on the Mountain Show the Band’s Style?
It blends rhythm, storytelling, and free-flowing jams—key parts of the Grateful Dead’s musical identity.
What is Unique About the Structure of Fire on the Mountain?
The song flows without strict patterns, creating space for musical freedom and extended solos.
How does Jerry Garcia’s Guitar Shape Fire on the Mountain?
His guitar adds energy and character with smooth, expressive riffs that match the song’s easy pace.
