WOODSTOPCK REMEMBERED

Although only scheduled for three days for August 15, 16, and 17th, the amazing Woodstock concert was actually extended one additional morning, the morning of August 18th, forty years ago today. Days of Peace & Music", held at Max Yasgur's 600 acre (2.4 km²; 240 ha, 0.94 mi²) dairy farm in the rural town of Bethel, New York from August 15 to August 18, 1969. Bethel, in Sullivan County, is 43 miles southwest of the town of Woodstock, New York, in adjoining Ulster County.During the sometimes rainy weekend, thirty-two acts performed outdoors in front of 300,000 concert-goers. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most pivotal moments in popular music history and was listed on Rolling Stones 50 Moments That Changed the History of Rock and Roll.The event was captured in the successful 1970 documentary movie Woodstock, an accompanying soundtrack album, and Joni Mitchell's song "Woodstock" which commemorated the event and became a major hit for Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young.The absolute legend Jimi Hendrix was the very last to play, ceremonially burning his instrument at the conclusion of his performance. He was preceded The Who --who performed their rock opera "Tommy" in its entirety. Interestingly enough the lyric "see me, feel me, touch me, heal me" occur ed as the sun began to rise over the distant mountains: an occurrence Roger Daltrey still cites to this day as one of the most moving moments of his entire career. Quite a day for rock and roll music history. Today also is the birthday of Antonio Salieri --the chief nemesis (rumored assassin) of dear old Mozart. I wonder what the old boy would have made of Woodstock. Italian composers of Mozart's day couldn't even understand a chromatic line. And speaking of those who were clueless: today is the day that George H.W. Bush nominated Dan Quayle to be his running mate: what were they thinking of? Oh well, and its also the 89th anniversary of the passing of the 19th amendment: giving women the right to vote. Women have accomplished a lot in eighty-nine short years. Happy Birthday to dear Patrick Swayze who's sheer guts and determination have landed him another year of living. A interview in Signal Hill happens for me today and I am thankful for it! Until next time!