Leonard Michael came to my show at the Red Light Cafe in Atlanta last night, and he sent me this message after the gig. I post it here with his blessing.
“It was very nice meeting you tonight David. I am the one who introduced myself at the bar right after your set and spoke of how much your show, The Grateful Dead Hour meant so much to me while I was on my ‘federal hiatus’ for many years. Having that little bit of sweet music enter my ear in such a place, and so far from the source was truly a sacred thing to me. A transistor radio with earbuds was all we were allowed for years and the although the availability of the broadcast was sparse, it was still something that would bring tears to my eyes in the most bittersweet way man.
“I had to let you know that because it’s sort of important to know of some of the nooks and crannies your hard work made it to and how it affected those like myself. Thanks for shining a little bit of love in a very dark place. Without that, I don’t know how I would have made it through….
Hope to see you again real soon.
Best wishes to you kind Sir,
Leonard
Knowing that the Grateful Dead Hour helped this man get through his prison time is such a great thing. I’ve had this conversation way too many times over the years.