This past weekend marked the 40th anniversary of the phenomenal Woodstock Music Festival at Max Yasgur's dairy farm in Bethel, New York. People began arriving days before the event with the hope of catching one of their favorite rock artists. There were estimates of 300,000 to 400,000 attendees who perservered despite the weather and unsanitary conditions. Among the stars appearing were Creedence Clearwater Revival, Joan Baez, Richie Havens, the Who, Janis Joplin, Santana, Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young, etc. It was not only a weekend of music making but a celebration of the convergence of popular music and youthful independence.
The Library's treasure trove of all things Woodstock include Michael Lang's The Road to Woodstock, Summer of 69: 40 Songs of Peace & Love That Were Played at Woodstock, Woodstock: The Guitar Tab Songbook, Woodstock: 3 Days of Peace & Music, etc.
Enjoy this performance by Sly and the Family Stone:
