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Bill produced his first concert as a benefit for the Mime Troupe, in November of 1965. Held in a San Francisco loft, it brought together the Jefferson Airplane, Lawrence Ferlinghetti, The Committee, The Fugs, Allen Ginsberg, and other elements of the San Francisco art scene and subculture. Financially, the show succeeded beyond anyone's expectations; aesthetically, it was magic. The artists performed, the people danced, and the room was pervaded by an intoxicating sense of joy and freedom. As Bill put it, he "saw the writing on the wall"—and he continued producing shows and perfected concert production as no one had before. An untiring worker known for his tough exterior and relentless idealism, Bill entertained and educated the young audiences by booking shows that combined jazz, blues and folk musicians with the most popular rock bands of the day. Artists like Miles Davis, B.B. King and Ravi Shakar shared stages with bands such as the Jefferson Airplane, the Grateful Dead and Janis Joplin. Bill nurtured the development of "psychedelic art" by engaging local artists to create posters and handbills for his shows. From the start, the Bill Graham trademarks were apparent: the best sound and lighting equipment, a friendly and comfortable atmosphere, and an overriding concern that audiences get their money's worth. Bill's company, Bill Graham Presents (BGP), achieved great success, following the standards of ethics and excellence that Bill established and demanded. BGP has brought the best of professionalism, creativity and experience to the leisure-time industry, and continues to provide enjoyment to concert audiences around the world. To Page 3 of 3 >> © 2008 Bill Graham Memorial Foundation |
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