Died On This Date (October 24, 2008) Merl Saunders / Played With The Grateful Dead
themusicsover Merl Saunders
February 14, 1934 – October 24, 2008
Merle Saunders was an exceptionally talented keyboard player who was a familiar face along the jamband scene beginning in the early ’70s. He first teamed up with the Grateful Dead’s Jerry Garcia in 1971, and together they made several albums throughout the years. Saunders also sat in with the Dead on many occasions. He also fronted his own band with whom he recorded as well. Over the years, Saunders has collaborated with Bonnie Raitt, Miles Davis, Widespread Panic, and Phish. In 2002, Saunders suffered a serious stroke which eventually lead to his death in 2008. He was 74.
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