1. The Dead played it hundreds of times throughout almost every year from the song's introduction in 1979 right through 1995
2. Jerry basically solos the entire song (when he's not singing backing vocals on the chorus) - including right over Bobby's verses too
What's not to love? The song's melody is so infectious that it's an absolute classic (written by Marty Robbins). El Paso was a familiar and upbeat 1st set major key song. No wonder the boys relied on it so heavily. I've never heard an El Paso where the band "stepped out" while jamming (ie playing outside the main key or adding rhythmic variations). But, El Paso is an easy crowd pleaser and no doubt helped set the tone for some of the best shows in the Grateful Dead's history.
Here's a great version on youtube from Vegas 1994 (a show that I attended). Bobby is playing an acoustic and there's some great background vocals by Jerry on that video.
El Paso Song Rating on a Scale of 1-10: 8.7
Disclaimer: This is part of my blog that reviews all things Grateful Dead for fun. Music is a beautiful thing because it is so personal and subjective, so keep in mind that this is one man's opinion.
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