Grateful Dead

On February 4, 1970, the Grateful Dead performed at the Family Dog at The Great Highway in San Francisco, showcasing their live energy with a rendition of "Hard to Handle." At this point in their career, the Grateful Dead had already released their self-titled debut album in 1967 and "Anthem of the Sun" in 1968, with the release of "Aoxomoxoa" occurring shortly after in 1969. By early 1970, the band's live performances were becoming increasingly integral to their identity, as they cultivated a dedicated following through extensive touring and improvisational concerts. Interestingly, during this period, the band was known for blending genres and experimenting with their sound, which would later develop into their unique jam band style. The song "Hard to Handle," originally by Otis Redding, became a staple in their live setlist, showcasing their ability to reinterpret classic songs within a transformative live context.

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