ONE MAN GATHERS WHAT ANOTHER MAN SPILLS: THE GRATEFUL DEAD, ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVISM, AND SUSTAINABLE CONCERTS

Picture a bright blue ball just spinning, spinning free, dizzy with possibilities. The lyrics in the Grateful Dead’s music reflect key themes such as care for environmental health as well as other natural aspects of life. This thesis demonstrates the connection between the history of the Grateful Dead and the rising effectiveness of the green movement that continues to grow today. I examine how the Grateful Dead has inspired generations of environmental activists from the 1960s to the year 2018. I emphasize that the band has emerged as a leader in promoting sustainable music concerts, performing in venues that strive to create an environmentally aware, as well as enjoyable, concert experience. Through its remaining members and their actions, the Grateful Dead helps us to remember that one man gathers what another man spills, a mantra that many Deadheads live by to work toward a cleaner planet.