46 years ago today, on February 19, 1979, Grateful Dead fans gathered at the Oakland Coliseum Arena for what would become a pivotal moment in the band’s history. The night marked the final performance of Keith and Donna Godchaux as members of the Grateful Dead, as part of the “Rock for Life” Benefit Concert, a significant event aimed at raising awareness and funds for the Campaign for Economic Democracy in the fight against environmental cancer.
The benefit concert, which was organized by renowned activists Tom Hayden and Jane Fonda, drew a crowd of nearly 20,000 people. The event was not only a celebration of the Grateful Dead’s iconic music but also a demonstration of the band’s commitment to activism, as they lent their talents to the cause.
The evening kicked off with a screening of the film Fun with Dick and Jane, followed by a powerful speech and introduction from Hayden and Fonda. Afterward, the Grateful Dead took to the stage, giving their fans a performance to remember. The band played two sets, including some long-awaited tracks. Among them were “Big Railroad Blues” and “Greatest Story Ever Told,” both of which had not been performed since 1974. The performance also featured the poignant “High Time” and the only rendition of “The Wheel” in 1979.
For Donna Godchaux, the evening also marked her final performance of “From the Heart of Me,” a heartfelt song that became synonymous with her vocal style. Her departure from the band would leave a lasting impact, as her soulful contributions had been a defining element of the Grateful Dead’s sound for years.
This benefit concert not only served as a farewell to Keith and Donna but also represented the end of an era for the band. Their departure, which came shortly after the performance, marked a pivotal shift in the Grateful Dead’s lineup, ushering in new musical dynamics. Keith and Donna’s final show remains a cherished moment for Grateful Dead fans, immortalized in history as a night of great music, activism, and heartfelt goodbyes.
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