The Woodstock 50th Anniversary Festival lineup was released today by festival organizer Michael Lang (who co-organized the original 1969 festival) which takes place between August 16-18 in Watkins Glen, New York.
Although the lineup is dominated by contemporary artists like The Killers, Miley Cyrus, Jay-Z, Halsey and Chance The Rapper, it was good to see several acts who appeared at the original Woodstock will be included in the proceedings. They include Santana (who will also appear at the 50th anniversary proceedings at Bethel Woods, the original site of Woodstock - more on that in the next paragraph), John Fogerty, John Sebastian, Melanie, David Crosby, Country Joe McDonald, The Dead and Company, Canned Heat and Hot Tuna (founded by Jefferson Airplane members Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Casady). Other vintage acts include Robert Plant and The Zombies. Who would have ever thought India.Arie and Country Joe McDonald would be on the same bill? While I wish there would be more vintage acts it's better than what I expected. If nothing else, it will give Millennials an opportunity to hear the musical acts that brought Woodstock to life 50 years ago.
Nevertheless, if I were to observe Woodstock's 50th anniversary it would probably be on Max Yasgur's farm. Woodstock just wouldn't be Woodstock anywhere else as was proven in 1999. Granted, the festivities at Bethel Woods are little less ambitious. Aside from Santana, Arlo Guthrie and Edgar Winter will be on hand along with the Doobie Brothers and Ringo Starr's All-Starr Band. There will also be a showing of Woodstock…The Movie. Nothing like seeing that film on location. This is far more likely to capture the spirit of the 1960's than what will likely be an East Coast version of Coachella.
On the other hand, one can visit Bethel Woods at any time. The odds of seeing Canned Heat and Melanie in the spotlight again are slim to none.
Now that I live in New York I cannot help but want to be a part of one of these experiences. But there are always logistics that get in the way. Perhaps some things are best experienced vicariously.
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