Introduction
The Bob Fried Memorial Boogie poster, featuring Jerry Garcia and Friends, Kingfish, Keith & Donna, and The Mirrors, commemorates a concert held on June 17, 1975, at Winterland. This event was a tribute to the influential poster artist Bob Fried. The poster itself is a collaboration between several notable artists including Stanley Mouse, Alton Kelley, Victor Moscoso, Wes Wilson, and Randy Tuten. It captures the essence of the vibrant music and art scene of the 1970s, especially within the Grateful Dead community.
Key Features:
- Year: 1975
- Artists: Bob Fried
- Edition: NA
- Numbering: NA
- Signature: NA
- Dimensions: Approximately 18x24
- Material: Offset Screen Print
- Venue: Winterland Arena
The Artist: Bob Fried
Robert "Bob" Samuel Fried, born on April 7, 1937, in Brooklyn, New York, was a prominent figure in the psychedelic art movement of the 1960s. With a background in highly detailed mechanical art, he studied at both Cooper Union and Pratt Institute, exploring various art forms including abstract oil painting and lithography. Fried's introduction to LSD in Spain influenced his later work in psychedelic-effect rock poster art. After moving to San Francisco in 1966, he became a key contributor to the Bay Area's rock poster scene. Fried passed away on January 9, 1975, the same day as his solo show's opening at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art
The Bands: Kingfish and Jerry Garcia
Kingfish was an American rock band formed in 1973, notably featuring musician Bob Weir from the Grateful Dead. The band blended elements of rock, country, and blues, and gained a following in the mid-1970s. Kingfish was known for its energetic performances and Weir's guitar work. Their music often reflected the laid-back, yet vibrant spirit of the San Francisco Bay Area music scene of that era. Despite changes in its lineup over the years, Kingfish made a significant impact on the rock genre during its active years.
Jerry Garcia and Friends" refers to musical collaborations and performances involving Jerry Garcia, the iconic guitarist and vocalist of the Grateful Dead. Known for his improvisational style, Garcia often played with various musicians outside of the Grateful Dead, bringing together artists from different backgrounds and genres. These collaborations highlighted his versatility and deep love for music. The term "Jerry Garcia and Friends" captures the essence of these varied musical ventures, where Garcia's unique sound and vision were shared in a more intimate or experimental setting than his work with the Grateful Dead.
The Venue: Winterland Ballroom
Winterland Ballroom was a historic ice skating rink and music venue in San Francisco, famous for hosting iconic rock concerts, especially during the late 1960s and 1970s. Managed by concert promoter Bill Graham, it became a significant location for the counterculture music scene. Bands like The Grateful Dead, Led Zeppelin, and The Rolling Stones performed memorable concerts there. The venue was known for its intimate atmosphere, despite its large size, making it a favorite among both performers and audiences. Winterland closed in 1978 and was demolished in 1985, but its legacy lives on in music history.