Having done work with several bands and even solo projects, Garcia's most noted musical accomplishments occurred with the band The Grateful Dead. One of his greatest accomplishment, was being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame which occurred in 1994.

Garcia's last song was Black Muddy River, in which the lyrics:

When the last bolt of sunshine hits the mountain
And the stars seem to splatter in the sky
When the moon splits the south west horizon
And scream of an eagle on the fly
I will walk alone by the black muddy river
And listen to the ripples as they moan
I will walk alone by the black muddy river
Sing me a song of my own

....seem to tell a story of Garcia's life. He died shortly after of a heart attack induced by sleep apnea. However after his death in 1995, Garcia's legacy has lived on. From ice cream flavors to notable media fame and various attractions being named of the musical talent, Garcia even is honored the first Sunday of every August in a way to keep his memory alive.