Weekend Monterey Music Threefer

 

On June 16, 17, and 18, 1967, the Monterey International Pop Festival was held in Monterey, California. The festival not only kicked off 1967's "Summer of Love" and all the "flower power" vibes attending it, but also marked the emergence of several major stars all gone before their time, notably Janis Joplin (on the 17th), Otis Redding (also on the 17th), and Jimi Hendrix (on the 18th).  Here are their iconic performances of "Ball and Chain," "I've Been Loving You Too Long," and "Foxey Lady", respectively.  Hope you enjoy.

Weekend Music

O.K.  Today would be Jimi Hendrix's 78th birthday, so of course we're not going to miss an opportunity to play our favorite recording of his, Bob Dylan's "All Along The Watchtower," from the "Electric Ladyland" album.  Hendrix's version of the song was released six months after Dylan's version, and was ranked in the top 50 of the "500 Greatest Songs of All Time" by Rolling Stone in 2004 -- so we're not alone in our admiration.  Hope you enjoy.

Weekend Music

Fifty years ago today, Jimi Hendrix died in London of asphyxia while intoxicated with barbiturates. One of the greatest and most influential musicians in the history of rock and roll, his death at the age of 27 was an enormous shock and a precursor to the deaths of Janis Joplin on October 4, 1970, Jim Morrison on July 3, 1971, and Cass Elliot on July 29, 1974.  But Hendrix, as a figure in the music and history of a generation was perhaps the greatest loss of all, with so much potential for growth and innovation left untapped.  We played our favorite Hendrix cut, "All Along The Watchtower," last year on his birthday, so we're going to bookend that with another favorite, "Hey Joe."  Hope you enjoy.

 

Mid-Week Watchtower Birthday Song

James Marshall "Jimi" Hendrix would have turned a venerable 77 today, but he died far too young in 1970 of asphyxia brought on by barbiturate intoxication. Even in his short lifespan, Jimi Hendrix's impact on music was monumental. Often referred to as the greatest guitarist of all time (perhaps approached only by Eric Clapton), Hendrix mastery of that instrument -- as well as effects that expanded its range -- propelled him to the top of the charts with his band, The Jimi Hendrix Experience. One of his most recognizable songs is Bob Dylan's "All Along The Watchtower," which features his signature wah wah and fuzz effects. Enjoy.

May Day Song

Today's lesson is: Hendrix + Dylan = earstasy.