It's sad when you think about: The Grateful Dead revolutionized the concept of sharing the music with the public via it's cooperation with the taping community, culminating with the creation of a formal "taper's section" at shows in Oct. 1984. They were smart enough, and technology oriented enough to archive almost every show from 1966(7)- 1995.
Dick Latvala was a fan first, employee second, with an encyclopedic knowledge of the band and it's music. It only made sense for him to work with the band to open the vaults and keep the music flowing. Jerry Garcia's comments regarding tapers and show trading said it best: "When we're done with it, it's theirs"
Greed within the family started taking its toll almost from day one of Garcia's death. Infighting between his various significant others and his then current wife. Everything from his estate, his guitars, even who could and could not attend his funeral, memorial service, and disposition of his ashes.
It was only a matter of time before that kind of toxic atmosphere found it's way through-out the organization. GDM, GD tix, road crews, and various others were dependent upon the continued survival of the Grateful Dead as a viable product. The remaining members attempted to carry on, under the guise of "The Other Ones" and later as "The Dead".
It was not the same; for the music or the fans. You could see the other side of the hill even as early as that last summer tour in 1995. The scene had changed, Garcia's health and virtuosity were in decline.
I would say this to Phil, Bobby, Mickey, Billy: It was a great ride guys. Thanks for many great years of incredible shows and friends. Let it go now. None of you need the money. Don't cheapen the legacy by trying to squeeze every last nickel from your fan base, both old and new. And for God's sake, move onto new projects The Grateful Dead years are over. Please don't become some shadow band reduced to playing in the casinos of Atlantic City.
