On this day in 1977, “The Grateful Dead Movie” hit theaters (Watch)

Leaded by Jerry Garcia oneself, The Grateful Dead movie was released on June 1, 1977. The film features live performances by the Gratefully dead during their five-day tour in 1974 in Winterland Ballroom in San Francisco, which marked the end of their tour and the beginning of a lengthy hiatus that would last (with a few exceptions) until 1976. Although documenting these experiences was at odds with the free-spirited environment portrayed in this film, it was a necessary and admittedly important thing to do at this point in their career. Several of the songs recorded during the October 16-20 tour were also included on their live album Steal your face.

With plenty of insight into the “Deadhead” culture and the Wall of Sound concert sound system the band used in 1974, the film faithfully portrays the undeniable movements that the Grateful Dead generation pushed forward. Improvisation was more than just a musical choice, it was a lifestyle. In this film, fans are documented to portray the positive atmosphere and colorful history that this culture ultimately gave birth to. The psychedelic animation adds the artistic elements similar to the generation, including the Uncle Sam skeleton and several images of roses and other GD references.

Dive deep into songs like “Stella Blue,” “Morning Dew,” and “The Other One” and experience Jerry Garcia on guitar and vocals. Bob Weir on guitar and vocals, Phil Lesh on bass, Bill Kreutzman on drums, Keith Godchaux on keyboards and Donna Jean Godchaux on singing in The Grateful Dead movie from 1977 below. Mickey Hart is also present at the beginning of the second set of the final show filmed for the movie, marking his permanent return to the band after a three-year hiatus.

You can watch the full film below on YouTube, officially released by the Dead.

The Grateful Dead Movie