When people think of Woodstock 1969, Jimi Hendrix’s searing rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” often comes to mind. While his performance was legendary, the festival had a wealth of other extraordinary moments that helped define its legacy.
Beyond the headline acts, Woodstock featured hidden gems—lesser-known artists whose performances left an indelible mark on those in attendance. This article explores some of these overlooked yet remarkable sets, supported by concert footage, attendee recollections, and festival records.
Richie Havens – The Unexpected Opening Act
Originally scheduled much later in the lineup, folk singer Richie Havens was thrust onto the stage when other acts were delayed. His impassioned performance, culminating in the spontaneous creation of “Freedom,” set the tone for the entire festival. His rhythmic strumming and raw vocal power captured the spirit of Woodstock and made him an icon of the event.
Sweetwater – The First Scheduled Band
Sweetwater, a psychedelic folk band, was supposed to open the festival but was delayed due to logistical issues. When they finally performed, they blended jazz, classical, and rock in a way that was ahead of its time. Their set, featuring songs like “What’s Wrong” and “Motherless Child,” showcased their unique sound, though their legacy was overshadowed by bigger names.
Bert Sommer – The Forgotten Balladeer
Bert Sommer’s name is rarely mentioned in discussions about Woodstock, but his performance was a revelation. With a voice reminiscent of folk greats like Tim Hardin and Donovan, he played a heartfelt set that included “Jennifer” and a stunning cover of Simon & Garfunkel’s “America.” Festivalgoers recall his set as one of the festival’s most intimate moments.
The Incredible String Band – A Psychedelic Interlude
Initially set to play on Friday evening, The Incredible String Band refused to perform in the rain and was rescheduled to Saturday. Their acoustic-driven, mystical performance, with tracks like “The Letter” and “When You Find Out Who You Are,” was a stark contrast to the electrified rock acts. Though their sound was not a perfect fit for the festival’s energy, their set remains an intriguing part of Woodstock’s diverse lineup.
Quill – The Experimental Rockers
A band with an experimental edge, Quill’s set on Saturday afternoon was full of improvisation and audience engagement. Known for their eclectic stage presence, they performed “They Live the Life” and “Waitin’ for You,” but their lack of recorded material led to their relative obscurity. However, those who witnessed their set remember it as one of the more adventurous performances of the festival.
Mountain – Heavy Rock Before Its Time
Led by Leslie West, Mountain delivered a thunderous performance that foreshadowed the hard rock sound of the 1970s. Songs like “Blood of the Sun” and “Theme for an Imaginary Western” stood out as some of the festival’s heaviest moments. While they never reached the legendary status of some of their peers, Mountain’s Woodstock performance is cherished by rock aficionados.
Keef Hartley Band – British Blues Invasion
As the only British act at Woodstock, the Keef Hartley Band introduced festivalgoers to a sophisticated blend of blues and jazz-rock. With songs like “Sinnin’ for You,” their set was a masterclass in musicianship. Despite their relative anonymity today, they brought an international flair to the festival.
Melanie – A Folk Star is Born
Melanie, an unknown singer-songwriter at the time, played an emotive and deeply personal set in the rain. Songs like “Beautiful People” resonated with the audience, and her performance eventually led to mainstream success. Her later hit, “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain),” was inspired by her Woodstock experience.
The Grease Band – Joe Cocker’s Secret Weapon
While Joe Cocker’s set is well-documented, few remember that his backing band, The Grease Band, played an instrumental set that highlighted their raw, blues-driven talent. Their musicianship was crucial to the impact of Cocker’s legendary “With a Little Help from My Friends” performance.
The Magic of Woodstock
Woodstock was more than just a showcase for rock legends—it was a gathering of diverse musical talent, many of whom never received the recognition they deserved. While Hendrix, The Who, and Janis Joplin dominated the headlines, the festival’s lesser-known acts contributed equally to its legacy. By revisiting these hidden gems, we gain a fuller appreciation of Woodstock’s magic and the voices that helped define an era.
