Merl Saunders

Merl Saunders was a versatile and soulful keyboardist known for his deep grooves and genre-blending style that pulled from jazz, funk, rock, and R&B. He came to wider recognition in the 1970s through his collaborations with Jerry Garcia of the Grateful Dead, especially their celebrated performances at the Keystone club in Berkeley, California. Their chemistry on stage led to a series of acclaimed live recordings, including the famous "Live at Keystone" albums.

Outside of his work with Garcia, Saunders had a rich solo career and collaborated with a wide range of artists, including members of the Grateful Dead, Miles Davis, and Bonnie Raitt. He was also known for his efforts to bring music into environmental and social causes, showing a strong commitment to activism alongside his musical output. His warm Hammond B-3 organ sound and improvisational flair made him a beloved figure in the San Francisco music scene and beyond.

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