A new biography by author Jim Newton, titled "Here Beside the Rising Tide: Jerry Garcia, the Grateful Dead, and an American Awakening," has been released, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the iconic musician's death. The book delves into the life of the Grateful Dead frontman, examining his profound cultural influence and navigating the complexities of his political legacy.
Newton, a former Los Angeles Times journalist, will discuss the biography and Garcia's impact on American culture on KQED's "Political Breakdown." According to a tweet from Scott Shafer, the discussion is scheduled for 5:50 pm, and the segment will also be available for download as a podcast.
Jerry Garcia, who passed away on August 9, 1995, at the age of 53, was a central figure in the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 70s. Despite his personal disinterest in formal politics, his band, the Grateful Dead, often performed in support of political causes, inadvertently shaping a progressive ethos that, as Newton argues, resonates with contemporary movements like environmentalism.
The biography explores Garcia's early life, the formation of the Grateful Dead, and their unique performance style that prioritized "immediacy over a more static idea of perfection." It also addresses the band's interactions with figures like California Governor Ronald Reagan, highlighting the cultural clashes of the era. Newton's work offers a sympathetic yet candid look at Garcia's life, including his personal struggles and drug addiction.
The release of this biography and the accompanying discussion on KQED underscore the enduring relevance of Jerry Garcia and the Grateful Dead's contribution to American cultural and social history. The 30th anniversary serves as a moment for reflection on how Garcia's artistic journey intersected with broader societal shifts.