1949 Studebaker M5 ‘Grateful Dead’ Pickup: A Piece of Rock and Roll History Up for Auction

'The Dred,' a 1949 Studebaker M5 pickup once owned by the Grateful Dead's sound engineer Owsley Stanley.

A unique and storied piece of rock and roll history is set to cross the auction block—'The Dred,' a 1949 Studebaker M5 pickup once owned by Owsley Stanley, the original sound engineer for the legendary band, the Grateful Dead. This iconic vehicle, affectionately named by the band members, served as their original equipment hauler during the early years of their career, making it a significant artifact in the history of American music.

A Rolling Relic of the Grateful Dead

The Grateful Dead, formed in 1965 in Palo Alto, California, left an indelible mark on the world with their eclectic blend of rock, folk, blues, jazz, and psychedelia. As the band became a cultural phenomenon, 'The Dred' played a crucial role in their early days, transporting their instruments and gear to gigs and recording sessions, including the journey to Los Angeles when they recorded their debut album, The Grateful Dead.

Owned by Owsley Stanley, the band's pioneering sound man and a key figure in the counterculture movement, 'The Dred' was more than just a truck—it was a symbol of the band’s free-spirited ethos and their commitment to pushing musical boundaries. Known for his "outside-the-box" thinking, Stanley was instrumental in shaping the Grateful Dead's sound and influence, and 'The Dred' was a part of that legacy.

A Piece of Cultural Significance

Featured in various publications, including a Rolling Stone magazine article on Owsley Stanley in November 1982, 'The Dred' has earned its place in pop culture history. The truck's original psychedelic livery, though weathered, still reflects the vibrant and rebellious spirit of the 1960s. The patina that has developed over the decades only adds to the truck’s character, telling the story of its long and eventful life.

Despite its age, 'The Dred' remains largely intact. The bench seat has been preserved under a clear cover, and the truck still sports a straight six-cylinder engine paired with a manual transmission. Various California registration stickers from the 1980s adorn the rear of the truck, hinting at its whereabouts after it retired from its role as the band's equipment hauler.

An Unmatched Collectible

As a relic from one of the most influential bands in music history, 'The Dred' offers more than just automotive appeal—it is a tangible piece of rock and roll lore. For fans of the Grateful Dead, music historians, and pop culture collectors, this truck represents an unparalleled opportunity to own a slice of music history.

The impact of the Grateful Dead on music, culture, and live performance remains profound, and 'The Dred' is a testament to their enduring legacy. Whether preserved as is or restored to its former glory, this 1949 Studebaker M5 is sure to be a cherished addition to any collection, embodying the spirit and history of an era that defined a generation.

Join us for the 54th Annual Auburn Auction & Show featuring 250 cars offered without reserve.

Starting Thursday, August 29, enthusiasts can look forward to a dynamic three-day sale with a curated offering of outstanding sports, supercars and hypercars, celebrity owned vehicles, pioneering race cars, exceptional pre-war automobiles, state-of-the-art cybertrucks, muscle cars, classics and vintage trucks, as well as an extensive selection of the best memorabilia to be found. 400 cars are slated to cross the block from August 29-31. Join us for this Labor Day weekend tradition!

Readers can receive complimentary bidder registration ($150 value) and auction passes using promo code “motorious” during bidder registration. Visit http://WorldwideAuctioneers.com to see the catalogue and register to bid.Embed in the words Auburn Auction :