ThisisBigBrother.com - UK TV Forums - Woodstock icon Richie Havens dies at 72

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-22259627

Quote:

Richie Havens, the folk singer who opened the legendary 1969 Woodstock rock festival, has died of a heart attack at 72.

He died at his home in Jersey City, New Jersey, his agent, Roots Agency, told Reuters.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, the musician was famous for his distinctive guitar and singing style.

Recalling Woodstock, Havens once said: "Everything in my life, and so many others', is attached to that train.''

His improvised version of the gospel song Motherless Child evolved into Freedom at the festival and became an anthem of the 1960s hippie generation.

The Woodstock concert film captured his performance for posterity.

Roots Agency said Havens had been "gifted with one of the most recognisable voices in popular music".

"His fiery, poignant, soulful singing style has remained unique and ageless," it added.

Woodstock proved the turning point in Havens' career, thanks in part to scheduling chaos at the festival which featured headliners like Jimi Hendrix, The Who and Janis Joplin,

Originally scheduled to go on fifth, he got bumped up because of travel delays. His performance continued for three hours because the next act had not shown up.

A remarkable man.

:cool:

R.I.P.