Grateful Dead - Bertha Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who wrote the lyrics for 'Bertha' by Grateful Dead?

   The lyrics for 'Bertha' were written by Robert Hunter, who was the primary lyricist for the Grateful Dead. The music was composed by Jerry Garcia.

2. Is 'Bertha' a character or does it refer to something else?

   For years, it was believed that 'Bertha' referred to a rambunctious mechanical fan in the Grateful Dead's office. However, Robert Hunter later revealed that the song was not named after the fan. Instead, 'Bertha' could be a pun on 'birth,' alluding to broader themes of birth, death, and reincarnation.

3. Which album features the song 'Bertha'?

   'Bertha' is the opening track on the live album commonly known as Skull & Roses or Skull Fuck, released on September 24, 1971. The album is officially untitled.

4. When and where was the live version of 'Bertha' on the album recorded?

   The live version of 'Bertha' on the Skull & Roses album was recorded on April 27, 1971, at the Fillmore East in New York City.

5. Who played the organ on the track 'Bertha'?

   Merl Saunders played the organ on 'Bertha,' as well as on other tracks from the Skull & Roses album. His contributions were more prominent than those of Pigpen (Ron McKernan).

6. What makes the Skull & Roses album significant in Grateful Dead's discography?

   The Skull & Roses album was the Grateful Dead's first album to be certified gold by the RIAA. It remained their best seller until it was surpassed by Skeletons from the Closet. It also included several lead and background vocal overdubs, which were not present in their earlier live albums.