The Grateful Dead was a famous American rock band formed in 1965. Known for blending rock, folk, blues, and psychedelic sounds.

They became a key part of the music scene in the ’60s and ’70s. Their loyal fans, called Deadheads, helped make their live shows legendary.

The band’s unique style and long jam sessions made them stand out. Even after many years, the Grateful Dead’s music still influences musicians today, with songs that have become classics.

About the Song

Friend of the Devil is a popular song that tells the story of a man on the run, trying to escape from his past while facing internal struggles.

It captures themes of guilt, temptation, and seeking redemption. With its unique blend of folk, rock, and storytelling, the song stands out as a classic in the Grateful Dead’s catalog.

Friend of the Devil Lyrics

Verse 1

I lit out from Reno, I was trailed by twenty hounds
Didn’t get to sleep that night ’til the morning came around

Chorus

Set out runnin’ but I take my time
A friend of the devil is a friend of mine
If I get home before daylight
Just might get some sleep tonight

Verse 2

Ran into the devil, babe, he loaned me twenty bills
Spent the night in Utah in a cave up in the hills

Chorus

Set out runnin’ but I take my time
A friend of the devil is a friend of mine
If I get home before daylight
Just might get some sleep tonight

Verse 3

I ran down to the levee but the devil caught me there
He took my twenty dollar bill and he vanished in the air

Chorus

Set out runnin’ but I take my time
A friend of the devil is a friend of mine
If I get home before daylight
Just might get some sleep tonight

Bridge

Got two reasons why I cry away each lonely night:
The first one’s named sweet Anne Marie, and she’s my heart’s delight
The second one is prison, babe, and the sheriff’s on my trail
And if he catches up with me, I’ll spend my life in jail

Verse 4

Got a wife in Chino, babe, and one in Cherokee
The first one says she’s got my child, but it don’t look like me

Chorus

Set out runnin’ but I take my time
A friend of the devil is a friend of mine
If I get home before daylight
Just might get some sleep tonight

Bridge

Got two reasons why I cry away each lonely night:
The first one’s named sweet Anne Marie, and she’s my heart’s delight
The second one is prison, babe, the sheriff’s on my trail
And if he catches up with me, I’ll spend my life in jail

Verse 4

Got a wife in Chino, babe, and one in Cherokee
The first one says she’s got my child, but it don’t look like me

Chorus

Set out runnin’ but I take my time
A friend of the devil is a friend of mine
If I get home before daylight
Just might get some sleep tonight

Similar Songs Like Friend of the Devil

Here are some Grateful Dead songs similar to Friend of the Devil that share acoustic, folk-rock, and storytelling qualities:

• Ripple: This gentle acoustic ballad with poetic lyrics is also from American Beauty and is often paired with Friend of the Devil
• Box of Rain: Known for its rich harmonies and reflective lyrics, this track is a heartfelt meditation on loss and hope
• Stella Blue: A slow, emotional song featuring Jerry Garcia’s expressive guitar and deep lyrical themes

Similar Bands Like The Grateful Dead

Check out some bands similar to The Grateful Dead, known for their unique blend of folk, rock, and jam band styles:

• Phish
  Genre: Jam Band, Rock, Progressive Rock
  Top Albums: A Live One, Junta
• The Allman Brothers Band
  Genre: Southern Rock, Blues Rock
  Top Albums: At Fillmore East, Brothers and Sisters
• The Band
  Genre: Rock, Americana, Roots Rock
  Top Albums: Music from Big Pink, The Last Waltz
• Jefferson Airplane
  Genre: Psychedelic Rock, Folk Rock
  Top Albums: Surrealistic Pillow, After Bathing at Baxter’s
• Dead & Company
  Genre: Rock, Jam Band
  Top Albums: Live in the Heart of the Ghostlight, The Final Tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Who were the Original Members of the Grateful Dead?

The founding members were Jerry Garcia, Bob Weir, Ron “Pigpen” McKernan, Phil Lesh, and Bill Kreutzmann. Other key members joined later, including Mickey Hart and lyricists Robert Hunter and John Perry Barlow

Are there Any Documentaries or Books About Grateful Dead?

Yes, the band has been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and academic studies exploring their music, cultural impact, and unique approach to live performance

What is the Legacy of the Grateful Dead Today?

The Grateful Dead’s influence persists in music, culture, and the thriving jam band community worldwide.