Song Lesson: Friend of the Devil by The Grateful Dead (JamPlay)

Learn how to play “Friend of the Devil” by The Grateful Dead with this immersive and thoughtfully crafted Song Lesson, taught by veteran guitarist and educator Dave Isaacs and produced in collaboration with JamPlay. Known for its hypnotic blend of folk, Americana, and psychedelic flair, “Friend of the Devil” remains one of the most enduring and beloved tracks in the Dead’s extensive catalog. This lesson offers a detailed breakdown of every guitar part—acoustic and mandolin alike—so you can capture the full sound and spirit of the original performance.

Designed for players of all levels, this lesson includes everything you need to play the song solo or in a full-band setting. Dave walks you through each arrangement in detail, from the iconic acoustic guitar riffs to the rhythm patterns and mandolin lines that color the song’s rich, rootsy texture. Beginners can jump in with an easy strum-along version that focuses on simplified chords and steady timing, while more experienced players will appreciate the deeper dive into fingerpicking patterns, chord transitions, and Grateful Dead-style groove.

You’ll start with a full song performance and overview to familiarize yourself with the song’s structure and feel. From there, each instrument part is broken down into three components: a clear instructional lesson, a guided practice session, and a playalong track that lets you rehearse with a band. You’ll cover two acoustic guitar parts—each offering distinct rhythmic and harmonic roles—as well as a mandolin part that brings authentic texture and flair to the arrangement.

The included backing track features high-quality audio with multiple tempo options, allowing you to slow down and master tricky transitions or speed up as your confidence grows. With TrueFire’s advanced learning tools—synchronized tab and notation, slow motion, looping, and multi-angle video—you’ll be able to practice efficiently and stay on track at your own pace.

Throughout the lesson, you’ll also pick up essential techniques like flatpicking, hybrid strumming, hammer-ons and pull-offs, and how to maintain groove and flow in an acoustic folk-rock setting. Dave also shares musical insights into the song’s construction, helping you connect what you’re learning on the fretboard with the underlying theory and style that make the song uniquely “Dead.”

Whether you're a longtime Deadhead wanting to bring this classic to life or a newer player exploring the acoustic roots of jam-band music, this lesson delivers a rewarding and well-rounded experience. With Dave Isaacs’ expert instruction and TrueFire’s interactive Song Lesson System, you’ll not only learn how to play “Friend of the Devil”—you’ll feel like you’re part of the band.

Start learning today and journey into the warm, free-spirited world of The Grateful Dead—one riff at a time.