Summary of "GOOD OL' GRATEFUL DEADCAST" Episode: Enjoying the Ride: Bay Area, Part 2
Release Date: April 24, 2025
Hosts: Rich Mahan and Jesse Jarnow
Podcast Description: “The Good Ol’ Grateful Deadcast” delves into the intricate music and enduring mythology of the Grateful Dead, catering to both new enthusiasts and lifelong Deadheads. Hosts Rich Mahan and Jesse Jarnow explore the band’s expansive history, innovations, and cultural impact from 1965 to the present day.
Introduction
In the season premiere for season 11, hosts Rich Mahan and Jesse Jarnow dive into the second part of their exploration of the upcoming Grateful Dead box set titled Enjoying the Ride. This episode, focusing on the band’s performances in the San Francisco Bay Area, offers listeners an in-depth look at the Dead’s relationship with their hometown venues and the rich stories that emerged from their shows in this iconic region.
"Enjoying the Ride" Box Set Overview
The episode opens with an exciting announcement about Enjoying the Ride, a limited edition 60 CD box set celebrating the Grateful Dead's 60th anniversary. This comprehensive collection features over 450 tracks and 60 hours of previously unreleased performances from 20 legendary venues across the United States. Notably, 17 of these shows are presented in their entirety, with additional material from the same venues enhancing the listening experience.
Rich Mahan highlights the exclusivity of the box set:
“This 60 CD box set is limited to 6,000 individually numbered copies.” [Timestamp: 05:30]
Additionally, a more concise release titled The Music Never Stopped will be available simultaneously, offering a curated selection of standout performances from each venue contained in the deluxe set.
Evolution of Bay Area Venues
Transition from Winterland to Kaiser
The Grateful Dead’s intimate relationship with Bay Area venues is a central theme. After the closure of Winterland Ballroom in 1978, the band sought a new home that could replicate the unique atmosphere they cherished. David Lemieux, the Dead’s archivist, and legacy manager, emphasizes this transition:
“Winterland was the perfect place until it wasn't, holding 5,000 or fewer attendees. Thankfully, they found the Oakland Auditorium Arena, later known as the Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center.” [Timestamp: 12:45]
Interview with Blair Jackson
Blair Jackson, co-founder of Golden Road, provides firsthand insights into the atmosphere at the Kaiser:
“It was like Winterland. The ramps, the second floor, the vibe—it all felt so much like Winterland.” [Timestamp: 14:20]
He reminisces about the camaraderie among Deadheads, noting that “the same people year after year” attended multiple shows, fostering a sense of community.
Highlights from the 1985 Kaiser Shows
Warlocks Reunion and Setlists
The November 21st and 22nd, 1985 shows at the Kaiser are pivotal, marking the 20th anniversary of the Grateful Dead. These performances prominently featured songs from The Warlocks, the band’s precursor. Blair Jackson recalls:
“It was clearly a throwback to the Warlocks era. Songs like 'Big Boy Pete' and 'Walking the Dog' made a significant comeback.” [Timestamp: 20:15]
Mark Pincus, future president of Rhino Records, shares his serendipitous experience at the July 13, 1984 show:
“We weren't high, just mesmerized by the crowd and the performance. It was unforgettable.” [Timestamp: 35:40]
The Iconic "Dark Star" Performance
A standout moment from the Greek Theatre show involved the spontaneous reintroduction of the legendary "Dark Star." Johnny Dwark narrates his adrenaline-filled journey to secure a ticket:
“I told George, 'They're gonna play Dark Star,' and somehow, with a miracle ticket, I made it in just in time.” [Timestamp: 42:10]
During the performance, Phil Lesh stepped forward to announce a special treat:
“We’re going to try a little something special tonight.” [Timestamp: 53:25]
This led to a surreal experience for attendees, amplified by a shooting star that appeared during the show, creating a profound connection among the crowd.
The Role of the Hog Farm and Community Support
Introduction to the Hog Farm
The Hog Farm, a mobile commune founded by Hugh Romney (Wavy Gravy) and his wife Jahanara, played a crucial role in supporting Deadheads during shows. Kevin Schmevin, a member of the Hog Farm, recounts:
“We were outside, rolling joints and passing around. It was all about community and peace.” [Timestamp: 58:45]
Support Systems and Security
The Hog Farm’s Skeleton Crew provided essential services like trash collection, lost and found, and first aid. This support was vital in maintaining a positive environment, especially as Grateful Dead shows grew in size and complexity.
Rebecca Adams, a sociologist and Deadhead, observes:
“The Hog Farm showed the medical community a new way to handle bad trips—through conversation and support, not just medication.” [Timestamp: 1:10:30]
Transition to Larger Venues: Oakland Coliseum Arena
Moving to the Coliseum
As the Dead's popularity surged, they moved to larger venues like the Oakland Coliseum Arena, which could accommodate the expanding Deadhead community. Blair Jackson shares his experiences:
“At the Coliseum, it was easy to get in—just park and go in. The general admission setup kept it classic Grateful Dead.” [Timestamp: 1:20:50]
Changes in Atmosphere
The shift to bigger venues brought changes in the crowd's behavior and the overall show experience. Older Deadheads felt a loss of the intimate vibe they cherished in places like Winterland and Greek Theatre.
Mark Pincus reflects on the Coliseum shows:
“The parking lot vastness gave a sprawling scene unlike the more focused East Coast shows. It was a new experience, mellow yet massive.” [Timestamp: 1:35:15]
Sociological Insights on Deadhead Culture
Minglo Town Council and Crowd Management
With the rise in show sizes, Deadhead culture experienced shifts in behavior. David Lemieux discusses the formation of the Minglo Town Council, a group of dedicated Deadheads aiming to maintain peace and order at concerts:
“They would come early, monitor behavior, and ensure everyone enjoyed the show respectfully.” [Timestamp: 1:45:50]
Evolution of Deadhead Demographics
The influx of younger fans led to varying dynamics within the Deadhead community. Efforts to balance the inclusion of new audiences while preserving the longstanding traditions became a focal point for loyal fans.
Personal Anecdotes and Memorable Moments
Mark Pincus’s Journey to the Greek Theatre
Mark Pincus recounts his adventurous trip to the July 13, 1984 show:
“I called Big George, juggled flights, and barely made it in time. The night was magical, with Dark Star and incredible moments that felt almost celestial.” [Timestamp: 2:00:10]
Johnny Dwark’s "Dark Star" Experience
Johnny Dwark describes the transcendent "Dark Star" performance:
“As Phil Lesh played Dark Star with Martian slides projected, the entire crowd felt electrified. It was like experiencing Heaven on Earth.” [Timestamp: 2:10:45]
Kevin Schmevin’s Interaction with the Hog Farm
Kevin Schmevin shares his encounter with the Hog Farm during a show:
“Calico intervened to calm down a potential altercation, showcasing the Hog Farm’s vital role in maintaining harmony.” [Timestamp: 2:25:30]
Conclusion
The episode wraps up by reflecting on the Grateful Dead’s enduring legacy in the Bay Area. Hosts Rich Mahan and Jesse Jarnow highlight how the band's deep roots in local venues fostered a unique and enduring Deadhead community. They tease future episodes that will continue to explore the Grateful Dead’s vast history and cultural impact.
Rich Mahan concludes:
“From the Watts Acid Test to the Hollywood Palladium, we've only begun to scratch the surface of the Grateful Dead’s connections on the Left Coast.” [Timestamp: 2:55:00]
Listeners are encouraged to explore past episodes, subscribe, and share their own Deadhead stories through the provided channels.
Notable Quotes
- Rich Mahan: “This 60 CD box set is limited to 6,000 individually numbered copies.” [05:30]
- Blair Jackson: “It was like Winterland. The ramps, the second floor, the vibe—it all felt so much like Winterland.” [14:20]
- Mark Pincus: “We weren't high, just mesmerized by the crowd and the performance. It was unforgettable.” [35:40]
- Johnny Dwark: “I told George, 'They're gonna play Dark Star,' and somehow, with a miracle ticket, I made it in just in time.” [42:10]
- Rebecca Adams: “The Hog Farm showed the medical community a new way to handle bad trips—through conversation and support, not just medication.” [1:10:30]
This episode of The Good Ol’ Grateful Deadcast offers a rich tapestry of stories and insights into the Grateful Dead's storied presence in the San Francisco Bay Area. Through detailed recounts and personal anecdotes, listeners gain a deeper appreciation for the band’s profound connection with their local venues and the vibrant community that supported their legendary performances.