The Grateful Dead is a band that changed how people think about live music. They mixed rock, folk, blues, and even a bit of jazz. Their concerts were long and full of surprises.
Fans followed them from city to city because every show was different. The band was more than just music; it felt like a way of life. Even now, people still talk about their songs and their message.
About the Song
Estimated Prophet tells the story of a man who believes he’s been chosen for something greater. He feels sure of his vision, even when others doubt him. The song has a steady, hypnotic rhythm that matches his strange confidence.
The lyrics feel dreamy and a little mysterious. They talk about voices, waiting, and a promise of going west. It’s a song that pulls you in and makes you listen closely.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 27 July1977 |
| Album | Dave’s Picks Vol. 12 (2014) |
| Writer | Bob Weir, John Perry Barlow |
| Producer | Keith Olsen |
Full Lyrics of Estimated Prophet
My time coming any day, don’t worry ’bout me, no
Been so long I felt this way, I’m in no hurry no
Rainbows end down that highway where ocean breezes blow
My time coming, voices saying, they tell me where to go (note 1)
Don’t you worry ’bout me–oh no no, don’t worry ’bout me, no
And I’m in no hurry–oh no no no, I know where to go
California, preaching on the burning shore
California, I’ll be knocking on the golden door
Like an angel, standing in a shaft of light
Rising up to paradise, I know I’m gonna shine
My time coming any day, don’t worry ’bout me, no
It’s gonna be just like they say, them voices tell me so
Seems so long I felt this way and time sure passing slow (note 2)
Still I know I lead the way, they tell me where I go
Don’t you worry ’bout me–oh, no, no, don’t worry ’bout me, no
And I’m in no hurry–oh, no, no, no, I know where to go
California, a prophet on the burning shore
California, I’ll be knocking on the golden door
Like an angel, standing in a shaft of light
Rising up to paradise, I know I’m gonna shine
You’ve all been asleep, you would not believe me
Them voices telling me, you will soon receive me
We’re standing on the beach, the sea will part before me (note 3)
Fire wheel burning in the air
You will follow me and we will ride to glory (note 4)
Way up in the middle of the air
And I’ll call down thunder and speak the same
And my words fills the sky with flame (note 5)
And might and glory gonna be my name
And men gonna light my way
My time coming any day, don’t worry ’bout me, no
It’s gonna be just like they say, them voices tell me so
Seems so long I felt this way and time sure passing slow (note 6)
My time coming any day, don’t worry ’bout me, no
Don’t you worry ’bout me–oh, no, no, don’t worry ’bout me, no
And I’m in no hurry–oh, no, no, don’t worry ’bout me, no
And I’m in no hurry–oh, no, no, no, I know where to go
Song History
Estimated Prophet came from people John Perry Barlow saw in California who believed they had a special calling. They talked like prophets and were sure they had big truths to share. That idea stuck with him and became the heart of the song.
Bob Weir added a slow, offbeat rhythm that gave the song its strange and dreamy feel. It first appeared on Terrapin Station in 1977 and became a live favorite for its bold mood and deep story.
Similar Songs Like Estimated Prophet
If you like the cool beat and story in Estimated Prophet, you will really enjoy these other songs by the Grateful Dead. Each one has its own sound and story that is easy to feel.
- Eyes of the World: This song feels bright and hopeful, talking about seeing the world in a new way and finding your own path.
- Terrapin Station: A long and wild song that tells a story about adventure and following your dreams, with lots of changes in the music
- Shakedown Street: This track has a funky beat and is all about having a good time and not letting tough days get you down.
- Franklin’s Tower: The song is upbeat and fun, reminding you that every day is a new chance and things can always get better.
Similar Bands Like The Grateful Dead
The Grateful Dead gave us more than music they gave us a feeling. These bands carry that same free, soulful, and jam-filled energy that fans still look for today.
- Phish
Genre: Jam Band, Rock
Top Albums: Junta (1989), Billy Breathes (1996) - The Allman Brothers Band
Genre: Southern Rock, Blues Rock
Top Albums: At Fillmore East (1971), Eat a Peach (1972) - Widespread Panic
Genre: Southern Rock, Jam Band
Top Albums: Space Wrangler (1988), Ain’t Life Grand (1994) - Little Feat
Genre: Rock, Funk, Southern Rock
Top Albums: Dixie Chicken (1973), Waiting for Columbus (1978)
Frequently Asked questions
Why Does the Song Feel so Dreamlike?
The mix of slow rhythm, echoing guitar, and surreal lyrics creates a trance-like, almost visionary mood.
What Makes The Estimated Prophet Lyrics Stand Out?
They’re poetic, mysterious, and filled with confidence, giving the narrator a voice that’s both strange and bold.
What Mood Does the Song Create?
It creates a dreamy, bold, and slightly eerie mood that makes you stop and think.
