Introduction
Key Features
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Artist: Cannon
- Year: 1967
- Edition: OO-1
- Numbering: NA
- Signature: NA
- Dimensions: Approximately 14 1/8" x 20"
- Material: Textured Tissue Like Material
- Venue: Continental Ballroom, Santa Clara CA
The Band: The Grateful Dead
The Grateful Dead were a legendary American rock band formed in 1965 in Palo Alto, California. The band's original lineup consisted of Jerry Garcia (guitar and vocals), Bob Weir (guitar and vocals), Ron "Pigpen" McKernan (keyboards and vocals), Phil Lesh (bass), Bill Kreutzmann (drums), and Mickey Hart (drums). The Grateful Dead were pioneers of the psychedelic rock and jam band genres and are known for their improvisational live performances.
Connection to the Continental Ballroom: The Grateful Dead had a significant connection to the Continental Ballroom in Santa Clara, California. In the mid-1960s, during the height of the counterculture movement and the burgeoning psychedelic rock scene, the Continental Ballroom became a regular venue for the band. They played a series of memorable shows at the venue, which became legendary among their fans. These performances helped solidify the Continental Ballroom's reputation as a key hub for emerging rock acts.
Stanley Mouse and Alton Kelley: Stanley Mouse and Alton Kelley were two prominent artists known for their contributions to the counterculture and rock art. They were responsible for designing some of the most iconic concert posters and album covers of the era. Their distinctive and intricate poster designs, often featuring psychedelic and surreal imagery, became synonymous with the San Francisco music scene.
The Venue: The Continental Ballroom
The Continental Ballroom, also known simply as "The Continental," was a historic music venue located in Santa Clara, California. It played a significant role in the counterculture and music scene of the 1960s and 1970s. Here's a brief history of the Continental Ballroom:
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Early Days: The Continental Ballroom initially opened its doors in the early 1960s. It started as a traditional ballroom, hosting dances and events for the local community.
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Transformation into a Music Venue: In the mid-1960s, during the height of the counterculture movement and the rise of psychedelic rock, the Continental underwent a transformation. It became a hub for live music performances, particularly catering to the emerging psychedelic and rock bands of the era.
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Grateful Dead Connection: The Continental Ballroom gained particular fame for its association with the Grateful Dead. The band played numerous shows at the venue, and their performances there became legendary among their fans. The poster for their 1967 Continental Ballroom concert, designed by Stanley Mouse and Alton Kelley, is an iconic piece of rock art.