Scarlet Begonias (3:32)

“Scarlet Begonias” is a song by the Grateful Dead. The lyrics were written by Robert Hunter, and the music was written by guitarist Jerry Garcia.[1] The song first appears on the 1974 release, Grateful Dead from the Mars Hotel. Its live debut came on March 23, 1974 at the Cow Palace in Daly City, California.[1] The song’s time signature is in 4/4 timing.

When performed live, “Scarlet Begonias” would often be paired with “Fire on the Mountain”, resulting in what would be nicknamed “Scarlet>Fire”.[2] Throughout the 1970s, the Grateful Dead were accompanied by Donna Godchaux during the performance of this song, lending an earthier feel to the vocal work.
When Keith and Donna Godchaux left the Grateful Dead in 1980 they formed the Heart of Gold Band which took its name from a line in “Scarlet Begonias.”