26 – THE SUMMERS OF LOVE
The 1960's was a tumultuous decade, a time of social, sexual and musical revolution. America was caught up in one of its most controversial involvements - The Vietnam War. A chain of chaotic events beginning with the assassination of John F. Kennedy in 1963, the 1968 assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King and the Manson murders of 1969 typified the era. The year 1964 saw the passage of the Civil Rights Bill. Man walked on the moon in 1969. It seemed as though the world was on a crash course to oblivion and we all sat bleary eyed as it gained momentum.
The popular music of the late 1960's reflected the confusion of the times. By 1966, rock was becoming more complex, more experimental and above all, louder. Recording techniques had improved and many of the new groups began dabbling in special effects and elaborate orchestrations. Lyrics were incredibly creative, often drug oriented and sometimes bordering on the mystical. Artists on either side of the Atlantic were influencing each other. The Beatles and The Byrds exchanged tapes and ideas, both being enamoured of Bob Dylan. David Crosby inspired George Harrison to listen to Indian music, particularly the artistry of Ravi Shankar and the possibilities of adapting the sitar to rock music. Finally, modern electronic music was aspiring to greatness and legitimacy.
To set the scene for the late 1960's, one must cite June 1, 1967 as a major focal point. It was on this date that the world was set on its musical ear with the release of The Beatles' phenomenal "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" album.
After playing their last live concert on Aug. 29, 1966, The Beatles had decided to discontinue touring. They had tired of playing to hordes of screaming teenagers who couldn't possibly hear their music. It had also reached the point where it was becoming technically impossible to reproduce their recordings live, much of their newer material being dependent on the use of orchestrations and studio effects. This new freedom from touring allowed them much more artistic scope than ever before. They spent a great deal of time experimenting with the latest in advanced studio technology, a luxury not afforded to many. The recording studio became their playground.
With the aid of EMI staff arranger/producer George Martin, The Beatles proceeded to record several pieces linked to a central theme based on a fictitious bandmaster named Sgt. Pepper. The songs seemed to be in sync with each other but in actuality, they were not. However, there was a rather strange spiritual unity to the collection. The music itself was a virtual conglomeration of rock, classical, English music hall, psychedelia, Indian raga and everything in between. Later, it was unanimously hailed as the ultimate concept album.
On March 30, 1967, The Beatles posed in colourful military costumes for the LP cover photo shoot at Michael Cooper's studio in Chelsea. Designed and organized by Peter Blake, it consisted of an elaborate set featuring the band posed with a lifesize collage made up of various celebrities, living and deceased. "Sgt. Pepper" was also the first major rock album to provide the lyrics printed on the back cover.
The recording process was completed on April 2, 1967 and on June 1, 1967, it was released. It was immediately heralded as a masterpiece and rock at its zenith. It had taken approximately seven hundred studio hours over a period of nine months to record and cost twenty five thousand pounds to produce. It was everywhere that summer. Its presence was inescapable. The record became an integral part of the scheme of things. It was "the" psychedelic album, symbolic of the drug culture and the late 1960's in general.
Musicologist Wilfred Mellers had been derided unmercifully by his contemporaries after he courageously cited "Sgt. Pepper" a modern masterpiece and The Beatles geniuses. Many so-called legitimate music critics refrained from comment until it became painfully obvious that Mellers was indeed correct.
Other notable musicians licked their wounds and went back to their drawing boards. No one could possibly top it. Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys lapsed into a state of severe depression and sustained paranoia after being blown away by its magnitude. The Rolling Stones tried to match it but failed miserably with "Their Satanic Majesties Request" album, later retreating to the safety of their formulaic rock and roll.
The BBC banned "A Day In The Life," "Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds" and "Fixing A Hole" because of apparent drug references. Actually, the lyrics were all quite vague yet an immediate imagery of psychedelia was present in the context of almost every track. The music projected swirling colours and fantastic designs in its mind expanding textures. It also tied in perfectly with the hippie lifestyle and the current migration to America's West Coast. More than any other element, it was symbolic of what is now called "The Summer Of Love."
Although 1967 has been officially dubbed "The Summer Of Love," there seems to exist a unified aura and style apparent in the last three years of the sixties. The flower power attitude did not disappear until the close of the decade despite the celebrated "death of the hippie" in October of 1967, a rather scathing attempt by the hippies to beat commercialism at its own game.
From the very beginning of the 1960's, California's lure was like that of a giant magnet, causing a mass migration of young people to the west, and during the late 1960's in particular, the Haight Ashbury district of San Francisco. Several factors had contributed to the hypnotic pull of the West Coast. For years, pop music had extolled the glories of California living, especially in the music of The Beach Boys and Jan & Dean. Lyrics conjured up romantic visions of sun, sand, surfing and of course the beautiful bikini clad women (e.g. "two girls for every boy" - Jan & Dean). The Mamas And The Papas' gigantic hit, "California Dreamin'" said it all. And when Scott McKenzie's recording of "San Francisco (Wear Flowers In Your Hair)," written by John Phillips began climbing the charts, the attraction to the West Coast was at its peak - such was the power of the music.
The baby boom generation was in full control. Rebellion and the questioning of authority was common. Conformity was stripped away and freedom became the main objective. Outrage over the Vietnam War manifested itself in protest rallies, sit-ins, draft card burnings and be-ins. The sexual revolution, the civil rights movement, black power and the American Indian movement (AIM) were all in full flower. Everyone had a cause. Drug laws were openly defied. Everything seemed to come together during the summer of 1967. Messengers like Chet Helms spread the word - "We are the young, we are strong, we can change the world."
- (Abbott H. Hoffman) (Nov. 30, 1936 - April 12, 1989)
- Political activist and revolutionary.
- Husband of activist Anita Hoffman ( – Dec. 26, 1998)
- One of the founders of The Yippies (Youth International Party) and a member of The Chicago Seven.
- (Irwin Allen Ginsberg) (June 3, 1926 - April 5, 1997)
- Poet born in Paterson, New Jersey.
- Leading member of the beat generation.
- Author of "Howl." The organizer of several "legalize pot" rallies.
- Owner of The Avalon Ballroom in San Francisco, California.
- Responsible for bringing Janis Joplin from Texas to San Francisco.
- Manager of Big Brother & The Holding Company. He also created The Family Dog.
- Leading spiritual advisor to the San Francisco music community.
- Jan. 14, 1967 - Instrumental in organizing The Human Be-In in San Francisco.
- (Oct. 22, 1927 - May 31, 1996)
- Psychologist who had been fired from Harvard University. Self professed drug guru, famous for his "turn on, tune in, drop out" campaign.
- (Sept. 17, 1935 - Nov. 10, 2001)
- American novelist, author of "One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest."
- Along with The Merry Pranksters who travelled the country in a psychedelic bus as message bearers performing outrageous theatre, he preached free love and promoted the use of drugs.
- Editor of the underground newspaper, "The Oracle."
- (Wolfgang Wolodia Grajonka) (Jan. 8, 1931 - Oct. 26, 1991)
- Rock impresario who owned and operated The Fillmore in San Francisco and later New York's Fillmore East (see San Francisco Rock Venues).
- He was also the manager of Jefferson Airplane for one year.
- One of rock's foremost entrepreneurs, Graham was the key to the success of a multitude of acts from all over the world. He was a brilliant businessman with a caustic wit and a keen ear for music.
- The ballistic Graham can be viewed in the 1972 film feature, "Fillmore."
- Note: The song, "Combination Of The Two" on the "Cheap Thrills" album by Big Brother & The Holding Company was a tribute to Bill Graham and Chet Helms.
- Oct. 26, 1991 - After his tragic death in a helicopter crash, he was honored in a tribute concert featuring many of the artists who had benefitted from his expertise. He is survived by two sons.
- Jan. 15, 1992 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Editor of "The International Times."
- Entrepreneurs who opened their Psychedelic Shop on Haight Street, San Francisco on Jan. 3, 1966. It is considered to be the premier head shop.
- Supposedly the manufacturer of "the best LSD in the world" and a member of The Grateful Dead family.
- ( – June 5, 1975)
- Critic at The San Francisco Chronicle and founder of Rolling Stone Magazine.
- (Robert Crumb) (Aug. 30, 1943 – )
- Cartoonist (Zap Commix).
- 1968 - Creator of the classic Big Brother & The Holding Company album cover, "Cheap Thrills."
DEFINITION - A term used especially since the latter half of the 1960's to denote young people who reject authority, existing institutions and morality. They dress unconventionally, favour communal living, advocate non violent ethics and often indulge in the use of psychedelic drugs.
That particular stereotypical description is undeniably true yet there are several factors amiss. The hippie phenomenon was an unplanned global movement. Although there were no leaders to speak of, messengers brought news of events and happenings in other areas. One creative San Francisco faction determined that "hippie" stood for "helping in preserving peaceful individual existence."
Appearance was important in that you were either a long hair or you were establishment. It was exactly that cut and dried. The hippie look consisted of a colourful, casual eclectic wardrobe made up of bell bottom jeans, tie dyed T-shirts, sandals or boots and any other decorative items such as macramé sashes, love beads and headbands. Anything fluorescent or hand painted was "groovy" and "far out." Edwardian jackets, Indian kaftans and any type of thrift shop apparel was acceptable. The more original the look, the cooler the wearer. Of course the crowning glory was long hair - the longer and wilder the better. And after The Beatles began sporting facial hair, it caught on like wildfire. The catch-phrase of the day was "do your own thing."
Small communities emerged, dotted with unique shops which catered to a youth clientele. Health food stores, poster shops, Indian boutiques, thrift shops and establishments dealing in psychedelic paraphernalia called head shops sprung up all over the country. The head shops also sold beads, posters, prints, jewelry, god's eyes (coloured yarn wrapped around crossed sticks symbolizing the third eye of spiritual understanding), incense and underground periodicals and newspapers. They also dealt in items associated with the drug culture.
LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide), which had been legal previous to October, 1966 caught on with the college crowd. It was prescribed by LSD guru Dr. Timothy Leary, a radical psychologist who had been fired from Harvard. Leary, convinced that the young had the power, urged them to "turn on, tune in, drop out." Getting stoned became a national pastime.
The Diggers were the core of the counter culture, a sort of new age Robin Hoods. Named for Cromwell's Planters And Diggers and patterned after the zealots of The English Civil War, they firmly believed that everything should be free. Food, clothing and lodging was free but donations were accepted. Hippies travelling 'cross country could count on the local Diggers to feed them and put them up for the night. Digger houses became havens specifically for "refugees of American culture and The Vietnam War." Once again there were no leaders but the basic idea had been promoted by David Simpson, writer Peter Berg and actor/playwright Peter Coyote (Peter Cohon) (Oct. 10, 1942 – ). On Dec. 16, 1966, the Diggers organized their first parade with the theme, "Death And Rebirth Of The Haight-Ashbury And The Death Of Money." It was led by ex-San Francisco mime troupe member Emmet Grogan.
Young people began turning out in droves to protest a ten o'clock curfew on Los Angeles' famous Sunset Strip. The police also showed up in full force, clubbing protesters and arresting over three hundred people. The whole unfortunate incident was later chronicled in a defiant little song titled "For What It's Worth," written by Stephen Stills and recorded by his band, The Buffalo Springfield.
On June 16-18, 1967, The Monterey Pop Festival, a 3 day celebration of music, love and flowers, organized by John Phillips of The Mamas & The Papas became the first ever major rock festival.
Artists taking part were Jimi Hendrix, The Who, Jefferson Airplane, Big Brother & The Holding Company (with Janis Joplin), Eric Burdon & The Animals, Otis Redding, The Mamas & The Papas, Simon & Garfunkel, Country Joe & The Fish and Ravi Shankar. Music personalities wandered the grounds fraternizing with the fans without fear. Attendance was estimated at 72,000. Two new phrases were added to our vocabulary - "make love not war" and "save water - bathe with a friend." It was a peaceful 3 days, later released as a film, "Monterey Pop." Although Woodstock is the most remembered of all the festivals, Monterey was surely the greatest.
The Woodstock Music And Art Fair was held on Aug. 15-17, 1969 at Max Yasgur's farm in Bethel, New York. It had began as a ticketed concert, later becoming free when over 400,000 music fans descended on the premises. It was the largest peaceful gathering to date. Artists taking part included Jimi Hendrix, Ten Years After, The Who, Canned Heat, Jefferson Airplane, Santana, Sly & The Family Stone, Sha Na Na, Joe Cocker, Joan Baez, Mountain, Arlo Guthrie and Janis Joplin.
The great rock festivals of the 1960's came to an abrupt end when a concert featuring The Rolling Stones and Jefferson Airplane, held at The Altamont Speedway in Santa Clara, California became a fiasco. A member of The Hells Angels who were supposedly policing the event murdered 18 year old Meredith Hunter directly in front of the stage. The catastrophic concert was later released as a film titled "Gimme Shelter"(1970).
By the late 1960's, the hit single was beginning to lose ground to the LP. A great deal of the new rock music had become too radical for AM radio. FM stations playing mostly album tracks gained in popularity. The new music was urgent, lyrically complex and often politically motivated. Often, the tracks had become too long for the 45 RPM single. Basically, music styles were much too improvisational and unconventional for mainstream airplay. Both American and British artists were dabbling in areas considered too heavy for the pop charts. For example, The Moody Blues had initiated their revolutionary concept album formula, sending their record company into shock after it was discovered that there were few hit singles in the material.
On Jan. 14, 1967, a unique happening took place at The Polo Field, Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. Promoted as "The Human Be-In," it attracted young people from all over the country. Several rock bands entertained but the overall attraction was the mystical overwhelming feeling of love and unity. Just to be there was magic. It was a celebration. This "pow wow" type of event was held simultaneously in London, New York, Amsterdam, Los Angeles, Paris and Stockholm heralding what later would be called "The Summer Of Love." The San Francisco happening was romanticized in Jefferson Airplane's "Won't You Try/Saturday Afternoon" from their 1967 LP, "After Bathing At Baxters." They also recorded a nostalgic song called "Summer Of Love" on their 1989 reunion LP, "Jefferson Airplane."
Hailed as the new Liverpool, San Francisco developed a reputation as the creative centre of the counter culture. The number of rock bands based in the Bay Area alone was phenomenal. Everyone was either in a group or knew someone who was. Several innovative art forms blossomed as a direct result of the burgeoning music scene. The first and most important was the birth of creative promotional posters for local rock concerts. Later considered an important art form, they became almost as popular as the events they advertised. Some of the earliest ideas were developed by Wes Wilson (who set the tone for psychedelic art with his initial 1966 poster for a Fillmore concert), Marty Balin of Jefferson Airplane, George Hunter, Alton Kelley and Victor Moscoso. But the greatest achievements in poster art were the remarkable works of Stanley "Mouse" Miller. Between 1966 and 1971, over 550 classic rock posters were designed.
Along with posters another fad was born. Buttons bearing slogans, symbols, names of current rock bands and creative designs became the rage as early as 1966. The most widespread item was an inverted ban the bomb logo, later called the peace symbol. Buttons and graffiti often displayed phrases such "Clapton is God," "save water - bathe with a friend" or "may the baby Jesus shut your mouth and open your mind." During late 1966, the entire West Coast was flooded with posters, buttons and stickers proclaiming "Jefferson Airplane Loves You."
Like Greenwich Village in New York City and Yorkville in Toronto, the Haight Ashbury (sometimes dubbed "The Hashbury") district of San Francisco became a magnet for runaways, fugitives from the draft, artists, musicians, poets, rebels and generally anyone disenchanted with mainstream living. With its colourful head shops, music clubs, health food shops and bakeries (some featuring multi-coloured psychedelic bread), the area also attracted the tourist trade. Little old ladies from the Midwest would take bus tours just to ogle the colourful hippie freaks. Later, as rip-off artists and big business moved in, the utopian hippie dream came to an end. In protest of the stereotypical label, the locals staged a mock "death of the hippie" rally on Oct. 21, 1967. However, as far as the public was concerned, the term "hippie" stuck.
THE MATRIX - (3138 Fillmore) Opening in August of 1965, it was the first club to achieve notoriety. It was a rather small venue owned and operated by Marty Balin of Jefferson Airplane.
THE FILLMORE - (1805 Geary St.) Owned and operated by rock impresario Bill Graham (see Influential Heroes & Characters) who also managed several rock acts including Jefferson Airplane. It had originally been an old skating rink situated in the Fillmore ghetto. Opening on Nov. 6, 1965, it became the premier rock venue in North America until its demise in 1971. The two weekend shows often featured non stop impromptu jams until five in the morning. Later in March 8, 1968, Graham opened his Fillmore East in New York City, which also closed in 1971. Both halls offered a new visual experience called liquid lighting. They were the premier rock concert halls of their time.
THE AVALON BALLROOM - Owned by Texas entrepreneur Chet Helms (see Influential Heroes & Characters). The Avalon had been designed as a dance palace and Helms was a firm believer in the power of the dance.
WINTERLAND - Opened in 1968, this gigantic venue was three times larger than the Fillmore.
The light show as an art form was perfected in San Francisco. Liquid lighting (achieved by mixing oil, water and food colouring on glass plates and projecting the results with the use of overhead projectors on massive screens situated behind the bands) became an essential element of rock concerts. Colours swirled, bubbled, pulsed and burst into amoeba-like patterns which created a fantastic backdrop for the trippy music (The idea for the style evolved from the light exhibits at The Brussels World's Fair). Other lighting techniques included carousels, slides, film and the hypnotizing effect of strobe lights.
Lighting was crucial to the West Coast scene. It embellished the music, creating a total environment and setting specific moods for each song. Several creative lighting companies enjoyed almost as much popularity as the groups. The most famous units were Glenn McKay's Headlights, Garden Of Delights, Joe's Lights and The Joshua Light Show. Many groups travelled with their own light companies. Glenn McKay's Headlights gained so much notoriety that Jefferson Airplane performed a special concert at The New York Museum Of Art, providing music as a backdrop for the new experimental lighting techniques.
In the beginning, dancing had been the main focus of the music. However, after 1967, hardly anyone danced. Audiences often preferred to seat themselves in concert fashion in order to appreciate both the music and the spectacular lighting effects. Of course, much of the new experimental music was highly undanceable.
One unique dance form which did emerge during the hippie era was the acid dance. As a style, it was free form, fluid and graceful rather than rhythmic. It was symbolic of the trip experience, often dominated by slow motion movements.
In actuality, there really was no unified San Francisco sound anymore than there was a distinct London or New York sound. The variety of styles was endless. The groups themselves were united socially rather than in musical style. There was an incredible support system among the bands and the musicians achieved a new intimacy with their followers who proudly called them "our bands." The wall between the performer and the audience disintegrated. Music was tied to the community, often becoming a main source of income.
Although there were so many varied Bay area music styles, several basic elements were evident in the West Coast approach to rock. There was a sort of lazy, hypnotic essence to the music. Long jam sessions were common and improvisation was taken to the limit.
Singing was also improvisational. The vocal acrobatics of Grace Slick and Marty Balin of Jefferson Airplane were legendary. Their innovative onstage duals became the definitive example of free form San Francisco vocals.
- Probably the earliest of the San Francisco bands, the quintet was playing a pre-acid folksy rock style in 1965.
- Lead singer was George Hunter, also hailed as one of San Francisco's premier poster artists.
- 1965-1968 - Dan Hicks (Dec. 9, 1941 – ) later of Dan Hicks & His Hot Licks was a member.
- June 21, 1965 - First major gig took place at The Red Dog Saloon in Virginia City, Nevada.
- Oct. 16, 1965 - Appeared with Jefferson Airplane in concert at The Longshoreman's Hall in San Francisco.
- 1965 - Signed a record deal and recorded an album which for one reason or another did not surface until 1969. Titled "The Charlatans," it featured some well known country songs such as "Wabash Cannonball" and "Folsom Prison Blues."
THE BEAU BRUMMELS
- See American Rock And Pop Of The Sixties - Folk Rock
- Grace Slick (Grace Wing) (Oct. 30, 1939 – )
- Singer/songwriter/pianist/artist born in Chicago, Illinois.
- Marty Balin (Martyn Jerel Buchwald) (Jan. 30, 1942 – )
- Singer/songwriter/artist/dancer born in Cincinnati, Ohio.
- Paul Kantner (Paul Lorin Kantner) (March 17, 1941 – )
- Singer/songwriter/rhythm guitarist born in San Francisco, California.
- Jorma Kaukonen (Jorma Ludwik Kaukonen) (Dec. 23, 1940 – )
- Guitarist/singer/songwriter from Washington, D.C.
- Jack Casady (John William Casady) (April 13, 1944 – )
- Bassist born in Washington, D.C.
- Spencer Dryden (April 7, 1938 – )
- Drummer born in New York City.
- 1965 - Formed by Balin and Kantner in the Haight Ashbury district of San Francisco, California.
- The original lineup consisted of Balin, Kantner, Kaukonen, Casady, drummer Alexander "Skip" Spence (April 18, 1946 - April 16, 1999) and female vocalist Signe Toly Anderson. Spence later became guitarist for Moby Grape.
- Aug. 13, 1965 - Debuted at The Matrix club in San Francisco, which was run by Balin and Bill Thompson.
- 1966 - Signed with RCA and immediately demanded artistic freedom.
- 1966 - Their first album, "Jefferson Airplane Takes Off" was released to critical acclaim.
- Managed by Bill Graham, they became a regular fixture at The Fillmore.
- 1966 - The West Coast became saturated with posters, buttons and stickers claiming "Jefferson Airplane Loves You."
- Oct. 14, 1966 - Signe Toly Anderson resigned due to pregnancy and was immediately replaced by ex-Great Society vocalist Grace Slick.
- One of rock's most improvisational groups, the Airplane's sound was a curious mixture of folk, jazz, rock, psychedelia, Indian raga and a steamroller. The free form vocal acrobatics of Slick and Balin raised the art of rock vocal to new heights. Slick's throaty wailing style and Balin's wistful romantic ballads gave the group a unique spectrum of sounds.
- They became famous for their free concerts.
- Jan. 14, 1967 - Performed at The Human Be-In at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco.
- June 16, 1967 - Headlined at The Monterey Pop Festival organized by John Phillips.
- June 28, 1968 - Appeared on the cover of Life Magazine as the leaders of the new rock.
- Aug. 15, 1969 - Appeared at the Woodstock Pop Festival.
- Dec. 6, 1969 - Along with The Rolling Stones, they performed at the infamous concert at Altamont Speedway in Santa Clara, California where a member of the audience, 18 year old Meredith Hunter was stabbed to death by one of Hell's Angels. It was later released as the film, "Gimme Shelter"(1970).
- 1970 - Dryden was replaced by Joey Covington.
- 1971 - Formed their own label, Grunt.
- Violinist Papa John Creach (May 18, 1917 - 1994) was added.
- 1972 - Disbanded, splintering into several factions - Kaukonen and Casady forming Hot Tuna - Slick and Kantner pairing for several projects.
- 1974 - Slick and Kantner formed Jefferson Starship, one of the most commercially successful acts of the 1970's (see Rock And Pop Of The Seventies - Arena Rock).
- 1985 - With a new lineup, the group became Starship.
- 1989 - The original Jefferson Airplane reunited for one album, "Jefferson Airplane" and tour.
- Jan. 17, 1996 - Inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Hits include "It's No Secret"(Sept., 1966), "Somebody To Love" (May, 1967)#5, "White Rabbit"(July, 1967)#8, "The Ballad Of You And Me And Pooneil"(Sept., 1967)#42, "Watch Her Ride" (Dec., 1967)#61, "Crown Of Creation"(Sept., 1968)#64, "Volunteers"(Nov., 1969)#65 and "Pretty As You Feel"(Nov., 1971)#60.
- Other classic Airplane tracks include "Today"(1967), "Plastic Fantastic Lover"(1967), "We Can Be Together"(1969) and "Summer Of Love"(1989).
- Oct., 1965 - Rock quintet formed in San Francisco, California by Grace Slick (Grace Wing) (Oct. 30, 1939 – ) (vocals) and her husband Jerry Slick (drums).
- Consisting of Grace Slick, Jerry Slick, David Minor (rhythm guitar), Peter Vandergelder (bass) and Jerry's brother Darby Slick (guitar).
- During their brief career, the band played both The Matrix and The Fillmore.
- Oct. 14, 1966 - Slick left to join Jefferson Airplane, taking with her two important songs, "Somebody To Love" (written by Darby Slick) and her self-penned "White Rabbit."
- The only recordings made by the group were two live albums, "Conspicuous Only In It's Absence" and "How It Was," both recorded by Sly Stewart in 1966 at The Matrix.
- Jerry Garcia (Jerome John Garcia) (Aug. 1, 1942 - Aug. 9, 1995)
- Lead guitarist/artist born in San Francisco, California.
- The definitive lineup consisted of Garcia, Bob Weir (Robert Hall) (Oct. 16, 1947 – ) (rhythm guitar), Ron "Pigpen" McKernan (Sept. 8, 1945 - March 8, 1973) (organ and harmonica), Phil Lesh (Philip Chapman Lesh) (March 15, 1940 – ) (bass) and Bill Kreutzmann (Bill Sommers) (April 7, 1946 – ) (drums).
- Began as Mother McCree's Uptown Jug Champions with a different lineup.
- 1965 - Became known as The Warlocks.
- 1965 - House band for the LSD parties thrown by Ken Kesey and The Merry Pranksters in La Honda.
- Late, 1965 - Changed their name to The Grateful Dead, the term signifying a traditional British folk ballad in which a human helps a ghost find peace.
- Became famous for their trippy rock and roll style. Signed with Warner Brothers and recorded their debut LP in 3 days.
- Garcia was nicknamed "Captain Trips."
- 1968 - Mickey Hart (Sept. 11, 1944 – ) (second drummer) and Tom Constanten (keys) joined. Constanten exited in 1970 and Hart left in 1971.
- 1972 - Keith Godchaux (July 14, 1948 - July 23, 1980) (piano) and his wife Donna (Aug. 22, 1947 – ) (vocals) were added.
- March 8, 1973 - McKernan died of liver problems.
- 1975 - Hart rejoined.
- 1979 - Brent Mydland (1953 - July 26, 1990) (keys) replaced Keith and Donna Godchaux.
- The group later achieved cult status, becoming a way of life for their dedicated followers known as "Deadheads." Their concerts became social events rather than musical attractions.
- 1994 - Garcia was inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Aug. 9, 1995 - After a long battle with heroin addiction, Garcia died of a heart attack at Serenity Knolls, a Marin County rehab centre.
- 2000 - "The Pizza Tapes," bootleg album recorded in Feb., 1993 was officially released.
- Hits include "Uncle John's Band"(Aug., 1970)#69, "Truckin'"(Nov., 1971)#64, "Alabama Getaway"(June, 1980)#68 and "Touch Of Grey" (July, 1987)#9.
- Jesse Colin Young (Perry Miller) (Nov. 11, 1944 – )
- Singer/guitarist/bassist born in New York City.
- 1963 - After changing his name, Young worked as a folk singer, recording his first solo album, "Soul Of A City Boy" for Capitol.
- 1964 - Recorded the solo album, "Youngblood" for Mercury.
- 1965 - Formed a duo with guitarist Jerry Corbitt from Tifton, Georgia.
- 1965 - Formed The Youngbloods, a folk rock quartet in New York City.
- Consisting of Young, Corbitt, Joe Bauer (Sept. 26, 1941 – ) (drums) and "Banana" (Lowell Levinger) (1946 – ) (keys).
- 1966 - Recorded the Mercury album, "Two Trips" which was released in 1967.
- 1967 - Moved to California, signing with RCA.
- 1969 - Corbitt left and the group remained a trio, recording the "Elephant Mountain" album featuring the much recorded classic, "Darkness Darkness."
- 1971 - Disbanded with each member going solo.
- 1987 - Reformed briefly for the "The Highway Is For Heroes" album.
- Hits include "Grizzly Bear"(Dec., 1966)#52 and the classic "Get Together"(Sept., 1967)#62, re-released (June, 1969)#5. The latter was written by Dino Valente (aka: Chet Powers).
- Carlos Santana (July 20, 1947 – )
- Guitarist born in Autlan de Navarro, Mexico.
- Son of a mariachi violinist.
- 1966 - Latin rock group originally formed as The Santana Blues Band in San Francisco, California.
- Original members included Santana (guitar), David Brown (bass) and Greg Rolie (keys).
- Aug. 15, 1969 - Appeared at The Woodstock Pop Festival resulting in a recording contract with Columbia.
- Sept., 1969 - Released their debut album, "Santana."
- 1971 - Afro-Cuban percussionist Coke Escovedo joined and Neal Schon (Feb. 27, 1954 – ) became second guitarist.
- 1972 - Tom Coster (keys) and Armando Peraza (percussionist) joined.
- 1973 - Schon left to form Journey.
- 1973 - Santana converted to the Hinduism of Sri Chimnoy, adding Devadip to his name.
- 1974 - Released the acclaimed jazz-rock fusion album, "Borboleta."
- Carlos Santana became famous for his strident, liquid guitaristry.
- 1985 and 1987 - Toured with Bob Dylan.
- 1986 - Carlos Santana produced the music for the film, "La Bamba."
- Aug. 12-14, 1994 - Appeared at Woodstock II.
- Dec. 4, 1996 - Carlos Santana received The Billboard Century Award.
- Jan., 1998 - Santana was inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Jan., 2000 - Santana's phenomenal "Supernatural" album went to #1.
- Hits include "Evil Ways"(Jan., 1970)#9, "Black Magic Woman"(Nov., 1970)#4, "Oye Como Va"(Feb., 1971)#13, "Everybody's Everything" (Oct., 1971)#12, "She's Not There"(Oct., 1977)#27, "Winning" (April, 1981)#17, "Smooth"(1999)#1 (featuring Rob Thomas) and "Maria Maria"(2000)#1.
- Country Joe McDonald (Jan. 1, 1942 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist/harmonica player from El Monte, California.
- 1962 - Moved to Berkeley, California and started the Rag Baby label.
- Oct., 1965 - Musical director of The Berkeley Vietnam Day Committee demonstration.
- 1965 - Formed the Country Joe & The Fish rock quintet in San Francisco, California. Beginning as a jug band, they later became one of the earliest purveyors of psychedelic rock.
- Consisting of McDonald, Barry Melton (guitar), David Cohen (1942 – ) (keys/vocals), Gary "Chicken" Hirsh (1940 – ) (drums) and Bruce Barthol (1947 – ) (bass).
- 1965 - Released the legendary "Rag Baby" EP.
- April, 1967 - Released their influential "Electric Music For The Mind And Body" album.
- 1967 - Appeared at The Monterey Pop Festival.
- Famous for their folkie, political, often humourous material.
- McDonald's most controversial song was his biting anthem, "I Feel Like I'm Fixin' To Die Rag," originally recorded in 1965 but really never achieving popularity until it was performed solo at The Woodstock Pop Festival in 1969. The song was usually preceded by an x-rated chant called "The Fish Cheer."
- 1970 - McDonald split from The Fish.
- 1974-1975 - Reunited with Melton.
- 1977 - The "Reunion" album featured the original Fish.
- Hits include "Not So Sweet Martha Lorraine"(Aug., 1967)#95 and "Breakfast For Two"(Nov., 1975)#92.
- Janis Lyn Joplin (Jan. 19, 1943 - Oct. 4, 1970)
- Singer/songwriter born in Port Arthur, Texas.
- Aug., 1961 - Began singing with The Waller Creek Boys bluegrass band in Austin, Texas.
- 1962-1965 - Played the San Francisco coffee house circuit, often backed by Jorma Kaukonen (later of Jefferson Airplane).
- 1965 - Returned to Port Arthur to attend college.
- June, 1966 - Chet Helms brought her back to San Francisco to become lead singer of the rock band Big Brother And The Holding Company. The group, originally formed in 1965, consisted of Sam Andrew (Dec. 18, 1941 – ) (guitar), Peter Albin (June 6, 1944 – ) (bass), James Gurley (1941 – ) (guitar) and David Getz (1938 – ) (drums).
- June 11, 1966 - Joplin played her first gig with the group at The Avalon Ballroom.
- 1967 - Their debut album on Bob Shad's Mainstream Records, "Big Brother And The Holding Company" was released. It was poorly recorded and did little for their career.
- June, 1967 - Caused a sensation at The Monterey Pop Festival performing a devastating rendition of Big Mama Thornton's "Ball And Chain." Joplin immediately was hailed as the new "big thing."
- Janis Joplin's searing full scale vocal attack was unique for a white female and her tough big mama attitude and flamboyant hippie chick fashion sense were later copied by an entire army of girl singers.
- Aug., 1968 - The definitive Big Brother album, "Cheap Thrills" was released. It featured a unique cover featuring the cartoons of R. Crumb.
- Joplin became a legend in her own time. Technically, she owed much to the classic blues singers, yet her wailing style was hers and hers alone. One critic remarked that she was a combination of Bessie Smith, Mae West and an oil derrick. Visually, Joplin was a blaze of motion and colours. She was a rather plain woman, rarely using makeup, yet she was a blaze of colour in her numerous bangles, beads, rings and feathers. Journalist Chet Flippo said that "she wore more jewelry than a Babylonian whore."
- 1968 - Convinced that she required a more professional backup group, Joplin left to form The Kozmic Blues Band (aka: Main Squeeze) featuring a brass section. With her, she took Sam Andrew.
- 1968-1972 - Big Brother And The Holding Company continued with various vocalists.
- Hits with Big Brother include "Bye Bye Baby"(1967), "Down On Me" (1967) re-released (Aug., 1968)#43, "Piece Of My Heart"(Aug., 1968)#12, "Ball And Chain"(1968) and "Turtle Blues"(1968).
- 1969 - Joplin appeared at the famous Woodstock Festival. Around this time, she had adopted a new persona, demanding that everyone call her Pearl.
- Nov. 16, 1969 - After an incident during a concert at Curtis-Hixon Hall in Tampa, Florida, she was arrested for vulgar and indecent language.
- 1970 - Formed her most accomplished backup unit to date, The Full Tilt Boogie Band, consisting of John Till (guitar), Brad Campbell (bass), Clark Pierson (drums) and Richard Bell (1948 – ) (keys). Canadians Campbell and Bell had been with The Last Words and Ronnie Hawkins respectively.
- Oct. 4, 1970 - Joplin was at the apex of her career when she was discovered dead at a Hollywood motel. A heavy drinker and former drug user, it was a shock to many when it was revealed that she had died of a heroin overdose.
- Her remarkable "Pearl" album was issued posthumously.
- Joplin solo hits include "Try"(1969), "Little Girl Blue"(1969), "Move Over"(1971), "Mercedes Benz"(1971), "Me And Bobby McGee" (Feb., 1971)#1-2 wks. and "Get It While You Can"(Sept., 1971)#78.
- Complete album listing - "Big Brother And The Holding Company" (1967), "Cheap Thrills"(1968), "Cheaper Thrills" (live bootleg album recorded 1966), "I Got Dem Ol' Kozmic Blues Again Mama" (1969), "Pearl"(1970), "Joplin In Concert"(1972), "Greatest Hits" (1973), "Janis"(1975) (movie documentary soundtrack) and "Farewell Song"(1982).
- 1994 - The "Janis Joplin" boxed CD set was released.
- 1966 - San Francisco rock quintet formed by Canadian-born guitarist/vocalist/drummer Alexander "Skip" Spence (April 18, 1946 - April 16, 1999), who had previously been the drummer for Jefferson Airplane.
- Consisting of Spence, guitarist/vocalist Peter Lewis (July 15, 1945 – ), guitarist/vocalist Jerry Miller (July 10, 1943 – ), bassist/vocalist Bob Mosley (Dec. 4, 1942 – ) and drummer Don Stevenson (Oct. 15, 1942 – ).
- Lewis is the son of actress Loretta Young.
- 1967 - Formed in Marin County, later attracting a cult following at The Fillmore and Winterland.
- One of the few non psychedelic acts on the San Francisco beat scene, the group was noted for their structured pop songs and remarkable twin guitar leads.
- 1967 - Columbia misguidedly issued 5 singles simultaneously from their debut album, creating an overkill in marketing which effected most of their subsequent product.
- 1968 - Released their "Wow" album featuring a bonus jam album and a 78 r.p.m. side.
- 1969 - Disbanded after several flop records.
- Several brief reunions and comeback attempts failed.
- Hits include "Hey Grandma"(May, 1967) and "Omaha"(July, 1967)#88.
- 1967 - Pioneer San Francisco heavy metal trio formed in Boston, Massachusetts.
- Named after a powerful brand of LSD.
- Consisting of bassist/vocalist Richard "Dickie" Peterson, guitarist Leigh Stephens and drummer/founder Paul Whaley.
- One of the highest volume acts of the period, they used 6 Marshall amplifiers with 24 speakers on each.
- They were managed by Gut, a former Hell's Angel.
- Stephens was later replaced by Randy Holden.
- 1968 - Their debut album, "Vincebus Eruptum" went to #11.
- Hits include "Summertime Blues"(March, 1968)#14 and "Just A Little Bit"(July, 1968)#92.
- Steve Miller (Oct. 5, 1943 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
- Raised in Dallas, Texas.
- 1959 - Formed The Marksmen Combo with his friend Boz Scaggs.
- 1961 - While at The University Of Wisconsin, formed The Ardels also with Scaggs.
- After college, lived in Chicago where he learned his craft from blues greats such as Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf.
- 1963 - Formed The Miller-Goldberg Blues Band in Chicago with organist Barry Goldberg.
- 1966 - Formed The Steve Miller Blues Band in San Francisco with Boz Scaggs, later becoming The Steve Miller Band. Their early recordings featured psychedelic overtones but success came during the 1970's with a straight forward goodtime rock and roll format.
- May, 1968 - Their debut album, "Children Of The Future" was released.
- Hits include "Living In The U.S.A."(Nov., 1968)#94, "The Joker" (Oct., 1973)#1, "Rock'n Me"(Aug., 1976)#1, "Fly Like An Eagle" (Dec., 1976)#2, "Jet Airliner"(April, 1977)#8, "Abracadabra"(May, 1982)#1-2 wks. and "Shangri-La"(Oct., 1984)#57.
- Sylvester "Sly Stone" Stewart (March 15, 1944 – )
- Singer/songwriter/keyboardist/producer born in Dallas, Texas.
- 1960 - Age 16, cut his debut disc, "Long Time Away" on the G & P label.
- Worked as an R&B disc jockey at KSOL - San Francisco and KDIA - Oakland.
- 1964 - Age 20, he was the producer/writer for many artists including The Mojo Men, The Beau Brummels and Bobby Freeman.
- 1966 - Formed his own group, The Stoners.
- 1967 - Formed Sly And The Family Stone consisting of Cynthia Robinson (Jan. 12, 1946 – ) (vocals/trumpet), Jerry Martini (Oct. 1, 1943 – ) (sax/clarinet/piano), Larry Graham Jr. (Aug. 14, 1946 – ) (bass/vocals), Greg Errico (Sept. 1, 1946 – ) (drums), Sly Stone (vocals/keys), his brother Freddie Stone (Fred Stewart) (June 5, 1946 – ) (guitar/vocals) and his sister Rose Stone (Rose Stewart) (March 21, 1945 – ) (piano/vocals).
- The interracial group premiered what later would be called psychedelic soul and triggered a new boom in dance music, laying the ground rules for the disco craze of the 1970's.
- 1969 - The group became one of the highlights of The Woodstock Pop Festival.
- During the 1970's, Stewart's inconsistencies and drug related problems brought a halt to his career.
- 1973 - Graham formed Graham Central Station.
- Nov., 1975 - Stewart's first solo album, "High On You" hit #45 on the charts.
- Oct., 1979 - Stewart was arrested in West Hollywood for cocaine possession.
- July, 1982 - Stewart was arrested for cocaine possession.
- 1982 - Stewart worked with George Clinton.
- Feb., 1983 - Stewart was arrested on drug and gun charges.
- March, 1983 - Stewart's "Ain't But The One Way" album failed to chart.
- Aug., 1983 - Stewart was arrested at a Fort Lauderdale gay disco for grand theft of a valuable ring.
- Dec., 1986 - Stewart was arrested for cocaine possession.
- Feb. 21, 1987 - Stewart was jailed on drug related charges and in 1989, he was sentenced to 14 months in drug rehabilitation for cocaine addiction plus 3 years probation.
- Jan. 12, 1993 - Sly & The Family Stones was inducted into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
- Hits include "Dance To The Music"(Feb., 1968)#8, "Everyday People"(Nov., 1968)#1-4 wks., "Stand"(April, 1969)#22, "I Want To Take You Higher"(May, 1969)#60, "Hot Fun In The Summertime"(Aug., 1969)#2, "Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)"(Jan., 1970)#1- 2 wks., "Family Affair"(Nov., 1971)#1-3 wks. and "If You Want Me To Stay"(June, 1973)#12.
- 1965 - Acid rock quintet formed in San Francisco, California.
- Consisting of guitarist John Cipollina (Aug. 24, 1943 - May 29, 1989), drummer Greg Elmore (Sept. 4, 1946 – ), guitarist Gary Duncan (Sept. 4, 1946 – ) and bassist/vocalist David Freiberg (Aug. 24, 1938 – ).
- Famous for their long improvisational pieces featuring fluid guitaristry and distinctive high pitched vocals.
- The group also incorporated the talents of singer/songwriter Dino Valenti (aka: Chester A. "Chet" Powers) (Oct. 7, 1943 - 1994) who wrote the sixties' anthem, "Get Together" (recorded by several artists including The Youngbloods and Jefferson Airplane). His other great song, "Hey Joe" was recorded by The Leaves, Love and Jimi Hendrix among others.
- 1968 - Appeared in the film, "Revolution."
- Valenti and Duncan later formed Outlaws, replaced by pianist Nicky Hopkins (Feb. 24, 1944 – ).
- During the 1970's, Freiberg joined Jefferson Starship.
- Hits include "Who Do You Love"(Aug., 1969)#91, "Fresh Air"(Oct., 1970)#49 and "What About Me"(March, 1971)#100.
- Recommended track - "The Fool" from the "Quicksilver Messenger Service" album (1968).
THE GRASS ROOTS
- See American Rock And Pop Of The Sixties - Folk Rock
CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIVAL
- See Rock And Pop Of The Seventies - Southern Rock
THE MOJO MEN
- See American Rock And Pop Of The Sixties - Pop/Rock And Bubblegum
- The Chocolate Watchband - "Are You Gonna Be There (At The Love-In)" (1968).
- The Electric Flag - "The Trip"(1968).
- It's A Beautiful Day - "White Bird"(1968).
- The Loading Zone - "Don't Lose Control (Of Your Soul)"(May, 1968).
- The Buddy Miles Express - "Memphis Train"(Aug., 1969)#100.
- Pacific Gas And Electric - "Are You Ready"(May, 1970)#14.
- Sea Train - "As I Lay Losing"(Dec., 1968).
- Sir Douglas Quintet - "She's About A Mover"(April, 1965)#13.
- Sopwith Camel - "Hello Hello"(Dec., 1966)#26.
Long before Haight Ashbury and San Francisco had become the main focus of the West Coast scene, Los Angeles had already achieved considerable status as a rock centre. Most of the early surf music and folk rock styles had originated in L.A. There emerged a certain rivalry between the Los Angeles and San Francisco bands, however the L.A. groups on the whole were much more commercially accessible. Los Angeles played host to a thriving club scene including the famous Sunset Strip club, The Whiskey A Go-Go which in mid '65 started booking emerging hard rock bands. The venue became L.A.'s hottest mecca launching groups such as The Byrds, The Doors, The Buffalo Springfield and The Mothers Of Invention.
THE BYRDS
- See American Rock And Pop Of The Sixties - Folk Rock
THE TURTLES
- See American Rock And Pop Of The Sixties - Folk Rock
LOVE
- See American Rock And Pop Of The Sixties - Garage Bands
THE LEAVES
- See American Rock And Pop Of The Sixties - Garage Bands
- Feb., 1965 - Pop/rock sextet formed in Los Angeles, California.
- Consisting of Terry Kirkman (Dec. 12, 1941 – ) (wind, reed and percussion), Gary "Jules" Alexander (Sept. 25, 1943 – ) (guitar/vocals), Jim Yester (Nov. 24, 1939 – ) (guitar/vocals), Brian Cole (Sept. 8, 1942 - Aug. 2, 1972) (bass/ vocals), Ted Bluechel Jr. (Dec. 2, 1942 – ) (drums/ vocals) and Russ Giguere (Oct. 18, 1943 – ) (percussion/ vocals).
- 1965 - Made their live debut at The Ice House in Pasadena, California.
- 1966 - Signed to Valiant Records.
- Most of the material was composed by Kirkman.
- The group became famous for their elaborate choral vocals.
- Their debut disc was Bob Dylan's "One Too Many Mornings."
- 1969 - Provided the musical background for the film, "Goodbye Columbus."
- Aug. 2, 1972 - Cole died of accidental drug poisoning.
- Hits include "Along Comes Mary"(June, 1966)#7, "Cherish"(Aug., 1966)#1-3 wks., "Windy"(May, 1967)#1-4 wks., "Never My Love" (Aug., 1967)#2 and "Everything That Touches You"(Feb., 1968)#10.
- Jim Morrison (James Douglas Morrison) (Dec. 8, 1943 - July 2, 1971)
- Singer/songwriter/poet born in Melbourne, Florida.
- Ray Manzarek (Raymond Daniel Manczarek) (Dec. 2, 1939 – )
- Keyboardist from Chicago, Illinois.
- Robbie Krieger (Robert Krieger) (Aug. 1, 1946 – )
- Guitarist born in Los Angeles, California.
- John Densmore (John Paul Densmore) (Dec. 1, 1944 – )
- Drummer born in Santa Monica, California.
- The quartet met in Venice, California naming themselves after author Aldous Huxley's "The Doors Of Perception"(1954) which advocated the use of hallucinogens.
- Based in Los Angeles, the band made its professional debut at The London Fog club on Sunset Strip.
- They opened for Captain Beefheart at The Whiskey A Go-Go, later becoming the house band.
- 1966 - While opening for Love at The Whiskey A-Go-Go on Sunset Strip, they were spotted and signed by Elektra's Jac Holzman.
- The focal point of the group was the charismatic Morrison who looked like a Greek god and had the magnetic appeal of the devil incarnate. His poetry conjured up images of Oedipus, mysticism and death. Nicknamed "The Lizard King," he was an unpredictable social rebel, heavy drinker and self destructive drug user who enjoyed living life on the edge. His colourful lyrics and deep sinister voice propelled The Doors to the upper echelons of rockdom.
- March, 1967 - Their debut album, "The Doors" was released to critical acclaim.
- June, 1967 - Their recording of "Light My Fire" went to #1-3 wks. and earned a gold disc from the R.I.A.A.
- Dec., 1967 - At a concert in New Haven, Connecticut, Morrison was arrested for using obscene language.
- March 1, 1969 - At a concert at The Dinner Key Auditorium in Miami, Florida, Morrison was arrested for profanity and indecent exposure.
- 1969 - Their "Soft Parade" album featured an orchestra and a horn section.
- May 31, 1969 - Played The Mexico City Bullring.
- Morrison's books of poetry include "The Lords"(1969), "New Creatures"(1969) and "An American Prayer"(1970).
- 1971 - Morrison quit the band to take a lengthy rest with his new bride Pamela Courson.
- July 2, 1971 - Morrison died of heart failure in a bathtub in Paris, France.
- The Doors continued unsuccessfully as a unit.
- April 25, 1974 - Morrison's widow died of a heroin overdose.
- 1991 - Oliver Stone's biographical film, "The Doors" was released to mixed reviews. However, Val Kilmer's portrayal of Morrison is quite mesmerizing.
- 1995 - The band regrouped to record "The Ghost Song" featuring pre-taped vocals by Morrison for a re-issue of "An American Prayer."
- Hits include "People Are Strange"(Oct., 1967)#12, "Love Me Two Times"(Dec., 1967)#25, "The Unknown Soldier"(May, 1968)#39, "Hello I Love You"(July, 1968)#1-2 wks., "Touch Me"(Jan., 1969) #3, "Wishful Sinful"(March, 1969)#44, "Love Her Madly"(April, 1971)#11 and "Riders On The Storm"(July, 1971)#14.
- Other classic tracks include "The End"(1967) and "When The Music's Over"(1967).
- Frank Zappa (Francis Vincent Zappa Jr.) (Dec. 21, 1940 - Dec. 4, 1993)
- Guitarist/songwriter/singer/satirist born in Baltimore, Maryland.
- Father of actress Moon Unit Zappa (Sept. 28, 1968 – ) and guitarist Dweezil Zappa (Sept. 5, 1969 – ).
- 1965 - The Mothers Of Invention formed originally as The Soul Giants in Los Angeles, California.
- Consisting of Zappa, singer Ray Collins, drummer Jimmy Carl Black (Feb. 1, 1938 – ) , bassist Roy Estrada and guitarist Elliott Ingber. Personnel fluctuated thereafter.
- Aug., 1966 - Their double album titled "Freakout" was released. It was probably the weirdest product of its time, spoofing the establishment and depicting life in the mad Los Angeles "freak" community. As with most of Zappa's projects, the public was either enchanted, appalled or confused.
- Nov., 1966 - The group played a 6 month stint at The Garrick Theatre in New York's Greenwich Village, performing 14 shows weekly. New York had never before witnessed such insanity.
- Oct., 1969 - After several successful albums, The Mothers disbanded as a performing unit. It had become completely impossible to keep such a large ensemble together (sometimes up to 40 people appeared onstage). Zappa had also become disheartened by the public's apathy to the incredible creativity involved with each of his projects.
- 1970 - Zappa formed a new configuration of The Mothers which included ex-Turtles Howard Kaylan and Mark Volman (Flo & Eddie).
- 1971 - Zappa's film of "200 Motels" was released.
- Dec. 3, 1971 - During a performance at the Montreux Casino in Montreux, Switzerland, the venue burned to the ground. The group lost over $50,000 worth of equipment.
- 1980 - Zappa released the well received rock opera, "Joe's Garage."
- July, 1982 - His recording of "Valley Girl," a spoof of Southern California youth culture featuring Moon Unit Zappa went to #32.
- Zappa continued to record solo projects to varying degrees of success. His brilliant guitaristry and genius as an innovator have been severely overlooked.
- Mothers Of Invention albums include "Freakout"(1966), "Absolutely Free"(1967), "We're Only In It For The Money"(1967) and "Ruben And The Jets"(1968).
- Zappa hits include "Don't Eat The Yellow Snow"(Oct., 1974)#86 and "Dancin' Fool"(April, 1979)#45.
- 1966 - Rock sextet formed in Los Angeles, California.
- Featured vocalist Cliff DeYoung (Feb. 12, 1945 – ) and two drummers.
- Paul Rothchild who produced The Doors signed them to Elektra.
- Sept., 1967 - Their debut album, "Clear Light" was released featuring the single, "Black Roses."
- 1968 - Disbanded.
- DeYoung later made a name for himself as an actor.
- 1966 - Blues/rock quintet formed in Los Angeles, California by musicologist Bob Hite.
- Named after a song by country blues singer Tommy Johnson.
- Consisting of Bob "The Bear" Hite (Feb. 26, 1943 - April 6, 1981) (vocals/harmonica), Alan "Blind Owl" Wilson (Aug. 4, 1943 - Sept. 3, 1970) (guitar/vocals/harmonica), Larry "The Mole" Taylor (June 26, 1942 – ) (bass), Henry Vestine (Dec. 25, 1944 - Oct. 20, 1997) (lead guitar) and Frank Cook (drums).
- The group was famous for its goodtime boogie music.
- June, 1967 - Played at The Monterey Pop Festival.
- 1968 - Cook was replaced by Adolfo "Fito" De La Parra (Feb. 8, 1946 – ) born in Mexico City.
- Aug., 1969 - Played at The Woodstock Pop Festival.
- Sept. 3, 1970 - Wilson died of a drug overdose.
- April 6, 1981 - Hite died of a heart attack.
- Hits include "On The Road Again"(Aug., 1968)#16, "Going Up The Country"(Dec., 1968)#11 and "Let's Work Together"(Oct., 1970)#26.
- Stephen Arthur Stills (Jan. 3, 1945 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist born in Dallas, Texas.
- Neil Young (Neil Percival Young) (Nov. 12, 1945 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Richie Furay (May 9, 1944 – )
- Singer/guitarist born in Yellow Springs, Ohio.
- Dewey Martin (Sept. 30, 1943 – )
- Drummer/vocalist born in Chesterville, Ontario, Canada.
- Bruce Palmer (1947 – )
- Bassist born in Liverpool, Nova Scotia, Canada.
- Stills and Furay had worked together in the commercial folk group The Au Go Go Singers.
- Martin had been the drummer for The Dillards.
- March 3, 1966 - Quintessential country/rock band The Buffalo Springfield was formed in Los Angeles, California.
- Originally called The Herd, they took their name from a brand of steamroller.
- 1966 - Their first single, "Nowadays Clancy Can't Even Sing" flopped.
- After the first two albums, Palmer was replaced by Jim Messina (Dec. 5, 1947 – ) born in Maywood, California.
- Their strong acoustic style and laid back vocal harmonies set a precedence in rock. The group featured 3 lead singers, 3 writers and 2 lead guitarists.
- May, 1968 - Disbanded. Stills and eventually Young became members of Crosby, Stills, Nash And Young. Both also enjoyed successful solo careers. Furay joined Poco and later, The Souther Hillman Furay Band. Messina joined Poco and later formed Loggins & Messina with Kenny Loggins.
- Hits include "For What It's Worth"(Jan., 1967)#7, "Bluebird" (July, 1967)#58, "Rock 'N' Roll Woman"(Sept., 1967)#44 and "On The Way Home"(Oct., 1968)#82.
- Other classic tracks include "Mr. Soul" and "Broken Arrow."
- John Kay (Joachim F. Krauledat) (April 12, 1944 – )
- Singer/guitarist born in Tilsit, East Germany.
- 1958 - Kay moved to Toronto, Ontario, Canada where he began his career in rock.
- 1965 - He joined the already established Toronto rock band The Sparrow, eventually moving to New York and finally Los Angeles.
- 1967 - In Los Angeles, the group became Steppenwolf.
- Consisting of Kay, guitarist Michael Monarch (July 5, 1950 – ), keyboardist Goldy McJohn (May 2, 1945 – ), drummer Jerry Edmonton (Oct. 24, 1946 – ) and bassist Nick St. Nicholas (Sept. 28, 1943 – ).
- Named after the Herman Hesse novel.
- The band benefitted from the composing talent of Canadian guitarist Mars Bonfire (David Edmonton).
- July, 1968 - Their classic "Born To Be Wild" went to #2. The song was featured in the film, "Easy Rider" and its lyrics, "I like smokin' lightnin, heavy metal thunder" contributed greatly to the usage of the term, "heavy metal."
- Famous for their biker image and hard edge sound.
- 1970 - Bassist George Biondo (Sept. 3, 1945 – ) joined.
- 1972 - Disbanded and Kay pursued a solo career.
- 1974 - Kay formed a new configuration of Steppenwolf.
- March, 1996 - Kay was inducted into The Juno Hall Of Fame.
- Hits include "Magic Carpet Ride"(Oct., 1968)#3, "Rock Me"(March, 1969)#10 and "Hey Lawdy Mama"(April, 1970)#35.
- Recommended track, "The Pusher"(1968), written by Hoyt Axton.
- Linda Marie Ronstadt (July 15, 1946 – )
- Singer/guitarist born in Tucson, Arizona.
- The daughter of Mexican/German parents.
- 1964 - Moved to Los Angeles, California where she began performing with a folk rock band called The Stone Poneys, named after Charley Patton's "Stone Poney Blues."
- Nov., 1967 - Their recording of Michael Nesmith's "Different Drum" went to #13.
- 1968 - Went solo, originally taking a country rock approach. She enjoyed critical acclaim appearing at The Troubadour in Los Angeles, The Bitter End in New York City and The Cellar Door in Washington D.C.
- April, 1971 - Formed her own backup band consisting of Glen Frey, Don Henley, Randy Meisner and Bernie Leadon which later became The Eagles.
- May, 1973 - Peter Asher of Peter & Gordon fame became her producer/manager.
- 1974 - Released the classic "Heart Like A Wheel" album.
- July 21, 1977 - Dueted on "Tumblin' Dice" with Mick Jagger at a Rolling Stones concert in Tucson.
- Over the years, the versatile and adventurous vocalist has continued to be successful recording a wide scope of material including country, folk rock, rock and roll, soul, new wave, operetta, big band jazz and traditional Mexican music.
- 1981 - Appeared in "The Pirates Of Penzance." The film version was released in 1983.
- 1981 - Sang in a revival of "La Boheme" at The New York Public Theater.
- Between 1983 and 1986, released 3 albums of standards arranged by Nelson Riddle.
- 1987 - She recorded with Dolly Parton and Emmylou Harris as Trio. The collaboration resulted in the #1 C&W hit, "To Know Him Is To Love Him"(Feb., 1987).
- 1987 - Released the vocally impressive "Canciones De Mi Padre" album.
- Ronstadt's voice is one of the most powerful instruments in the business.
- Hits include "Long Long Time"(Aug., 1970)#25, "You're No Good" (Dec., 1974)#1, "When Will I Be Loved"(April, 1975)#2, "Heat Wave"(Sept., 1975)#5, "The Tracks Of My Tears"(Dec., 1975)#25, "That'll Be The Day"(Aug., 1976)#11, "Blue Bayou"(Sept., 1977)#3, "It's So Easy"(Oct., 1977)#5, "Ooh Baby Baby"(Nov., 1978)#7, "How Do I Make You"(Feb., 1980)#10, "Hurt So Bad"(April, 1980)#8, "What's New"(Oct., 1983)#53, "Somewhere Out There"(Dec., 1986)#2 (with James Ingram), "Don't Know Much"(Sept., 1989)#2 (with Aaron Neville) and "All My Life"(Feb., 1990)#11.
- 1967 - Formed originally as Spirits Rebellious in Los Angeles, California.
- Consisting of Randy California (Randolph Craig Wolfe) (Feb. 20, 1951 - Jan. 2, 1997) (guitar), Ed Cassidy (May 4, 1931 – ) (drums), Jay Ferguson (John Arden Ferguson) (May 10, 1947 – ) (vocals), Mark Christopher Andes (Feb. 19, 1948 – ) (bass) and John Locke (Sept. 25, 1934 – ) (piano).
- One of the most respected bands in rock history.
- April, 1968 - Released their debut album, "Spirit."
- 1970 - Broke up after recording the classic "The Twelve Dreams Of Dr. Sardonicus" album, with Andes and Ferguson later forming Jo Jo Gunne. Several configurations of Spirit continued after the break-up.
- 1971 - Ferguson and Andes formed Jo Jo Gunne.
- 1975 - Reformed briefly.
- Jan. 2, 1997 - California drowned off the coast of the Hawaiian Island Molokai after saving the life of his 12 year old son.
- Albums include "The Family That Plays Together"(1968) and "Clear Spirit"(1969).
- Hits included "I Got A Line On You"(Jan., 1969)#25, "1984"(Feb., 1970)#69 and "Animal Zoo"(Sept., 1970)#97.
- Other classic tracks include "Nature's Way" and "Mechanical World."
- Danny Hutton (Daniel Anthony Hutton) (Sept. 10, 1942 – )
- Singer/producer born in Buncrana, Ireland.
- Chuck Negron (Charles William Negron) (June 8, 1942 – )
- Singer born in The Bronx, New York.
- Cory Wells (Cory Julius Wells) (Feb. 5, 1942 – )
- Singer born in Buffalo, New York.
- 1968 - Vocal trio with a 4 piece backing unit was formed in Los Angeles, California. The band consisted of guitarist Mike Allsup (Michael Rand Allsup) (March 8, 1947 – ), keyboardist Jim Greenspoon (James Boyd Greenspoon) (Feb. 7, 1948 – ), drummer Floyd Sneed (Floyd Chester Sneed) (Nov. 22, 1943 – ) and bassist Joe Schermie (Feb. 12, 1948 – ).
- The name stems from an Australian expression concerning the sleeping with one's dogs when the temperature drops.
- Three unique vocalists, each taking turn singing lead. The product was basically a commercial one aimed at the singles market.
- 1976 - Disbanded, reuniting in the mid 1980's.
- The group's career was spotted due to Negron's drug problems.
- Hits include "One"(May, 1969)#5, "Easy To Be Hard"(Aug., 1969) #4, "Eli's Comin'"(Oct., 1969)#10, "Celebrate"(Feb., 1970)#15, "Mama Told Me Not To Come"(May, 1970)#1-2 wks., "Out In The Country"(Aug., 1970)#15, "Joy To The World"(March, 1971)#1-6 wks., "Liar"(July, 1971)#7, "An Old Fashioned Love Song"(Nov., 1971)#4, "Never Been To Spain"(Dec., 1971)#5, "Black And White" (Aug., 1972)#1, "Shambala"(May, 1973)#3 and "The Show Must Go On" (March, 1974)#4.
- 1967 - Sweet psychedelic pop/rock sextet formed in California.
- Consisting of singer/drummer Randy Seol, organist/leader Mark Weitz, lead guitarist Ed King, bassist/vocalist Gary Lovetro and special effects bass guitarist George Bunnell.
- The group was a combination of 2 successful Southern California bands.
- 1968 - Contributed music to the soundtrack of the film, "Psyche Out."
- Featured regularly on Rowan & Martin's TV series, "Laugh-In."
- King later played lead guitar for Lynyrd Skynyrd.
- Hits include "Incense And Peppermints"(Sept., 1967)#1 and "Tomorrow"(Dec., 1967)#23.
- 1967 - Rock quintet formed in Chicago, based in the West Coast.
- Took their name from novelist, H. P. Lovecraft.
- Group specializing in haunting, inventive material.
- Oct., 1967 - Recommended debut album, "H.P. Lovecraft" features the classic tracks, "Wayfaring Stranger" and "The White Ship."
- 1967 - Rock quintet formed in California.
- Featured female lead vocalist Sandi Robison.
- They actually used the ludicrous slogan, "The Peanut Butter Conspiracy is spreading."
- 1967 - Released their debut album, "The Great Conspiracy."
- Hits include "It's A Happening Thing"(March, 1967)#93 and "I'm A Fool"(Nov., 1968)#125.
- 1966 - Psychedelic metal quartet formed in San Diego, California.
- Consisting of Ron Bushy (Sept. 23, 1941 – ) (drums), Doug Ingle (Sept. 9, 1947 – ) (vocals/keys), Lee Dorman (Sept. 19, 1945 – ) (bass) and Erik Braunn (Erik Keith Braunn) (Aug. 10, 1950 – ) (lead guitar).
- 1967 - Moved to Los Angeles, California where they spent 3 months as resident band at The Galaxy on Sunset Strip.
- The group not only helped define psychedelia in a big way but paved the way for the heavy metal bands of the 1970's. Their debut album was titled "Heavy"(1968).
- Famous for the marathon drum solos of Ron Bushy.
- July, 1968 - Their classic "In-A-Gada-Da-Vida" album was released, selling over 3 million copies by 1970.
- 1969 - Braunn replaced by Mike Pinera (Sept. 29, 1948 – ) and Larry "Rhino" Reinhardt (July 7, 1948 – ).
- Early, 1972 - Disbanded.
- 1975 - Braunn and Bushy reformed the group with bassist/vocalist Phil Kramer (1958 - 2000).
- 1975 - Released the "Sun And Steel" album.
- Hits include "In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida"(Aug., 1968)#30, "Soul Experience"(Feb., 1969)#75 and "Easy Rider (Let The Wind Pay The Way)"(Oct., 1970)#66.
- David Crosby (David Van Cortland Crosby) (Aug. 14, 1941 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist born in Los Angeles, California.
- Stephen Stills (Stephen Arthur Stills) (Jan. 3, 1945 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist born in Dallas, Texas.
- Graham Nash (Feb. 2, 1942 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist born in Blackpool, Lancashire, England.
- Neil Young (Neil Percival Young) (Nov. 12, 1945 – )
- Singer/songwriter/guitarist born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- 1968 - The vocal harmony trio of Crosby, Stills & Nash was formed in Laurel Canyon, California at John Sebastian's house, made up of ex-members of The Byrds, The Buffalo Springfield and The Hollies.
- Early, 1969 - Their debut album, "Crosby, Stills & Nash" was released.
- Aug. 15, 1969 - Made their live debut at The Woodstock Pop Festival.
- 1970 - Neil Young became a sporadic fourth member.
- Famous for their impressive close harmonies, the group has enjoyed several successful reunions.
- Late, 1970 - Disbanded, later reuniting in 1974.
- All pursued a solo career with Young emerging as the most commercially successful (see The Singer/Songwriter).
- 1999 - Crosby was the subject of controversy when it was discovered that he had been the seed-bearer for the children of Melissa Etheridge and her lover,
- 2000 - CSNY were touring again.
- Hits include "Marrakesh Express"(July, 1969)#28, "Suite Judy Blue Eyes"(Oct., 1969)#21, "Woodstock"(March, 1970)#11, "Teach Your Children"(June, 1970)#16, "Ohio"(June, 1970)#14, "Our House" (Sept., 1970)#30, "Just A Song Before I Go"(May, 1977)#7, "Wasted On The Way"(June, 1982)#9 and "Southern Cross"(Sept., 1982)#18.
- Bay area R&B group featuring lead singer Lydia Pense.
- Hits include "You Got Me Hummin'"(Jan., 1970)#52 and "Too Many People"(Oct., 1970)#107.
- Jamie Robbie Robertson (July 5, 1943 – )
- Guitarist/singer/songwriter born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
- Garth Hudson (Aug. 2, 1937 – )
- Organist/saxophonist born in London, Ontario, Canada.
- Levon Helm (May 26, 1935 – )
- Drummer/singer born in Marvell, Arkansas.
- Richard Manuel (April 3, 1943 - March 4, 1986)
- Pianist/singer/songwriter born in Stratford, Ontario, Canada.
- Rick Danko (Dec. 29, 1942 - Dec. 10, 1999)
- Bassist/singer/songwriter born in Simcoe, Ontario, Canada.
- 1958 - Helm came with Ronnie Hawkins to Toronto where the group was formed as The Hawks.
- Honed their craft as Hawkins' backup band, later becoming Levon & The Hawks and The Canadian Squires.
- 1965 - Recorded the "So Many Roads" album with singer John Hammond Jr.
- Aug. 28, 1965 - Both Robertson and Helm backed Bob Dylan at a concert in Forest Hills.
- 1965-1966 - The Hawks minus Helm, toured extensively with Dylan, playing such notable venues as London's famous Albert Hall.
- 1967 - Reunited with Helm at Woodstock, New York where they worked with Dylan on "The Basement Tapes," released in 1975.
- They changed their name to The Band after deciding that The Hawks was too violent.
- The house they rehearsed and lived in was dubbed "Big Pink."
- 1968 - Their debut album, "Music From Big Pink" received ecstatic critical acclaim for its refreshing traditional Appalachian folkie style.
- Several landmark albums followed including "The Band"(1969), "Stage Fright"(1970), "Cahoots"(1971), "Rock Of Ages"(1972) and "Northern Lights/Southern Cross"(1975).
- Thanksgiving, 1976 - "The Last Waltz," their final concert filmed as a movie, was a 4 hour event held at Winterland in San Francisco. The 5,000 person concert and buffet presented by impresario Bill Graham, featured The Band and a host of guest artists including Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, Eric Clapton, Van Morrison, Bob Dylan, Paul Butterfield and Ronnie Hawkins.
- Nov. 4, 1977 - "The Last Waltz," directed by Martin Scorsese premiered in New York.
- 1980 - Helm played Loretta Lynn's father in "Coal Miner's Daughter."
- March 4, 1986 - Manuel committed suicide.
- Dec. 10, 1999 - Danko died in his sleep.
- Hits include "The Weight"(Aug., 1968)#63, "Chest Fever"(1968), "Up On Cripple Creek"(Nov., 1969)#25, "Rag Mama Rag"(Feb., 1970) #57, "Life Is A Carnival"(Oct., 1971)#72 and "Don't Do It"(Sept., 1972)#34.
- Other classic tracks include "I Shall Be Released," "We Can Talk" and "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down."
- 1966 - Psychedelic blue-eyed soul quartet formed in New York City.
- Consisting of Tim Bogert (Aug. 27, 1944 – ) (bass), Mark Stein (March 11, 1947 – ) (lead vocals/keys), Vinnie Martell (Nov. 11, 1945 – ) (guitar) and Carmine Appice (Dec. 15, 1946 – ) (drums).
- Bogert and Stein had been in The Pidgeons and Appice and Martell had been members of The Vagrants.
- Their basic formula was slowing down rock classics and giving them elaborate psychedelic soul treatments.
- 1970 - Appice and Bogert formed Cactus, later teaming with Jeff Beck in Beck, Bogart & Appice.
- 1982 - Reunited for the "Mystery" album.
- Hits include "You Keep Me Hanging On"(July, 1967)#67, re-released (July, 1968)#6 and "Take Me For A Little While"(Oct., 1968)#38.
- Summer, 1967 - Jazz/rock ensemble formed in New York City by keyboardist/guitarist/singer/songwriter Al Kooper (Feb. 5, 1944 – ), born in Brooklyn, New York.
- Kooper was formerly a member of The Blues Project.
- Original lineup consisted of Kooper, guitarist/singer Steve Katz (May 9, 1945 – ), drummer Bobby Colomby (Dec. 20, 1944 – ), saxophonist/pianist/arranger Fred Lipsius, trombonist/ organist/arranger Dick Halligan (Aug. 29, 1943 – ) and bassist Jim Fielder (James Thomas Fielder) (Oct. 4, 1947 – ).
- They were later joined by trumpeters Randy Brecker (Nov. 7, 1945 – ) and Jerry Weiss (May 1, 1946 – ).
- Early, 1968 - Their jazzy "Child Is Father To The Man" album, including the minor hit, "I Can't Quit Her" was a mild success.
- 1968 - Kooper left, replaced by singer/songwriter David Clayton- Thomas (David Thomsett) (Sept. 13, 1941 – ) born in Surrey, England. Previously, he had made a considerable name for himself in the Canadian music scene performing with The Shays and later The Bossmen. Also joining were trumpeters Lew Soloff (Feb. 20, 1944 – ) and Chuck Winfield (Feb. 5, 1943 – ) and trombonist Jerry Hyman (May 19, 1947 – ).
- 1972 - Clayton-Thomas was replaced by Jerry Fisher.
- 1974 - Clayton-Thomas rejoined.
- The group was a pioneer in the fusion of rock and big band jazz.
- March, 1996 - Clayton-Thomas was inducted into The Juno Hall Of Fame.
- Hits include "You've Made Me So Very Happy"(March, 1969)#2, "Spinning Wheel"(May, 1969)#2, "And When I Die"(Oct., 1969)#2, "Hi-De-Ho"(Aug., 1970)#14, "Lucretia Mac Evil"(Oct., 1970)#29, "Go Down Gamblin'"(July, 1971)#32 and "You're The One"(Nov., 1976)#106.
- Eric Clapton (Eric Jones Clapton) (March 30, 1945 – )
- Guitarist/singer/songwriter born in Ripley, Surrey, England.
- Jack Bruce (John Simon Asher Bruce) (May 14, 1943 – )
- Bassist/singer born in Bishopbriggs, Lanarkshire, Scotland.
- Ginger Baker (Peter Baker) (Aug. 19, 1939 – )
- Drummer born in Lewisham, London, England.
- Baker and Bruce had previously worked in Alexis Korner's band (1962) and with Graham Bond (1963-1965). Bruce and Clapton had been in John Mayall's Bluesbreakers (see Rock And Pop Of The Seventies - White Blues).
- Mid, 1966 - Robert Stigwood, then a London agent brought them together and named them Cream. Each member was a virtuoso hence the name.
- 1966 - Made their live debut at The Windsor Festival.
- Their style was power percussion and bare wires blues with psychedelic overtones. Cream was "the" power trio, famous for their marathon improvisational jams and Clapton's elegant fluid guitaristry.
- Oct., 1966 - Their debut single, "Wrapping Paper" went to #34 UK.
- 1966 - Their debut album, "Fresh Cream" was released. By 1968, it had won a gold disc from the R.I.A.A. for one million in sales.
- 1967 - Their classic "Disraeli Gears" album was released, later winning a platinum award in 1968 for $2 million in sales.
- Mid, 1967 - First American tour.
- 1968 - The graffiti slogan of the day was "Clapton Is God."
- Nov. 26, 1968 - Their farewell performance took place at London's Royal Albert Hall before 5,000 people.
- 1969 - Clapton and Baker formed Blind Faith.
- 1970 - Baker formed Air Force, a jazz-rock big band.
- Clapton, known as "Ol' Slowhand," enjoyed a long and successful solo career (see American Rock And Pop Of The Seventies - Arena Rock).
- Hits include "I Feel Free"(Dec., 1966)#11 UK, (Dec., 1967)#103, "Strange Brew"(June, 1967)#17 UK, "Sunshine Of Your Love"(Jan., 1968)#5 US, (Oct., 1968)#25 UK, "Anyone For Tennis"(May, 1968)#64 US, (June, 1968)#40 UK, "White Room"(Oct., 1968)#6 US, (Jan., 1969)#28 UK, "Crossroads"(Jan., 1969)#28 US and "Badge"(April, 1969)#18 UK, #60 US.
- Other classic tracks include "Cat's Squirrel," "Toad," "Spoonful" and "Tales Of Brave Ulysses."
- James Marshall Hendrix (Nov. 27, 1942 - Sept. 18, 1970)
- Guitarist/singer/songwriter born in Seattle, Washington.
- 1954 - Age 12, began playing guitar. Hendrix was left handed and played a re-strung right handed guitar.
- 1963 - Using the name Jimmy James, he began touring the South, backing artists like B. B. King, Jackie Wilson and Little Richard.
- 1964 - Based in New York, backing Joey Dee and John Paul Hammond.
- Animals bassist Chas Chandler discovered Hendrix while he was backing Curtis Knight at The Cafe Wha in Greenwich Village.
- 1966 - Chandler took him back to London, England, uniting him with drummer Mitch Mitchell (Jan. 9, 1947 – ) and bassist Noel Redding (Dec. 25, 1945 – ) and calling the trio The Jimi Hendrix Experience.
- Both white members of the group had their hair styled in an afro like Hendrix, promoting a new fad among whites.
- Their sound was an unearthly acid blues.
- Their debut gig was at The Olympia in Paris.
- 1967 - Their appearance on the British TV show, "Ready Steady Go" resulted in their recording of "Hey Joe" climbing to #6 UK.
- June 18, 1967 - They played to an astounded audience at The Monterey Pop Festival where Hendrix played his guitar with his teeth then set it on fire during a rather erotic rendition of "Wild Thing."
- 1967 - Touring as the opening act for The Monkees proved to be as asinine as it sounds. The group was promptly fired.
- 1969 - Chandler quit as manager and The Experience disbanded.
- Aug. 15, 1969 - With a new band, Hendrix played The Woodstock Pop Festival where he stunned half a million people with a ballistic version of "The Star Spangled Banner" complete with guitar effects simulating plane crashes and explosions. The performance was a scathing protest against America's involvement in The Vietnam War.
- At the close of 1969, he formed The Band Of Gypsies with drummer Buddy Miles and bassist Billy Cox and recorded live on New Year's Eve at The Fillmore East in New York City.
- Aug., 1970 - Played a messy set at The Isle Of Wight Festival.
- Sept. 18, 1970 - Died in Monika Danneman's apartment in London, England. The cause of death was inhalation of vomit following barbiturate intoxication.
- The flamboyant, sexually charismatic Hendrix had lived a life of excess and had provided an unforgettable full scale assault on rock and roll and the music industry in general. At the time of his death, he was actually veering toward avant-garde jazz.
- Sept., 2000 - Hendrix Memorial, his final resting place was situated at Greenwood Memorial Park in Washington.
- Hits include "Purple Haze"(March, 1967)#3 UK, (Aug., 1967)#65 US, "The Wind Cries Mary"(May, 1967)#6 UK, "Burning Of The Midnight Lamp"(Aug., 1967)#18 UK, "Foxey Lady"(Dec., 1967)#67 US, "All Along The Watchtower"(Sept., 1968)#20 US, (Oct., 1968)#5 UK, "Crosstown Traffic"(April, 1969)#37 UK, (Nov., 1968)#52 US, "Voodoo Chile"(Nov., 1970)#1 UK, and "Gypsy Eyes"(Oct., 1971)#35 UK.
ERIC BURDON & THE ANIMALS
- 1963 - Rock quintet formed in Sydney, Australia.
- Consisting of guitarist/composer George Young (Nov. 6, 1947 – ), guitarist/composer Harry Vanda (Harry Wandon) (March 22, 1947 – ), drummer/guitarist Stevie Wright (Dec. 20, 1948 – ), bassist Dick Diamonde (Dec. 28, 1947 – ) and drummer Gordon "Snowy" Fleet (Aug. 16, 1946 – ).
- Young's brothers Angus and Malcolm Young later formed AC/DC.
- Vanda and Young wrote most of the material.
- Their debut single, "For My Woman" was a mild success.
- By July, 1966, after 4 top hits, they were the top Australian band.
- 1966 - Moved to England.
- 1970 - Disbanded.
- Hits include "Friday On My Mind"(Oct., 1966)#6 UK, (March, 1967) #16 US and "Hello How Are You"(April, 1968)#20 UK.
PINK FLOYD
- Keyboard dominated group formed in Southend, England.
- 1966 - Originally called The Paramounts, they once served as the backing band for singer Sandie Shaw.
- Named after a prize-winning cat, Procol Harum is Latin for "Beyond These Things."
- The focal point of the group is keyboardist/singer/songwriter Gary Brooker (May 29, 1949 – ).
- Consisting of Brooker, lead guitarist Ray Royer (March, 9, 1945 – ), keyboardist Matthew Fisher (June 10, 1946 – ), bassist David Knights (June 28, 1945 – ) and drummer Robert Harrison (March 18, 1947 – ).
- A pioneer of what later would be termed progressive rock, the group was only moderately successful during their October, 1967 American tour.
- Late, 1967-1972 - Guitarist Robin Trower (March 9, 1945 – ) was a featured member.
- Nov., 1971 - Performed and recorded with The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra.
- 1976 - Disbanded, later reforming.
- Hits include "A Whiter Shade Of Pale"(May, 1967)#1 UK, (June, 1967)#5 US, "Homburg"(Oct., 1967)#6 UK, #34 US and "Conquistador" (May, 1972)#16 US, (Aug., 1972)#22 UK.
- 1965 - Psychedelic quintet formed in Birmingham, England featuring singer/songwriter/guitarist Roy Wood (Roy Qliver Ulysses Wood) (Nov. 8, 1946 – ).
- Consisting of Wood, singer Carl Wayne (Aug. 18, 1944 – ), guitarist/singer Trevor Burton (March 9, 1944 – ), bassist Ace Kefford (Christopher John Kefford) (Dec. 10, 1944 – ) and drummer Bev Bevan (Nov. 25, 1945 – ).
- 1966 - Debuted at The Marquee Club in London. They dressed as gangsters and demolished TV sets onstage.
- Famous for its quirky pop material, the group never charted in the U.S.
- April, 1968 - Kefford left due to illness.
- 1968 - Burton replaced by Rick Price (June 10, 1944 – ).
- 1970 - Wayne was replaced by Jeff Lynne (Dec. 30, 1947 – ).
- 1971 - After The Move's demise, Wood formed The Electric Light Orchestra with Bevan and Lynne (see Rock And Pop Of The Seventies). After one LP, Wood left to form Wizard.
- Hits include "Night Of Fear"(Jan., 1967)#2 UK, "I Can Hear The Grass Grow"(April, 1967)#5 UK, "Flowers In The Rain"(Sept., 1967) #2 UK, "Fire Brigade"(Feb., 1968)#3 UK, "Blackberry Way"(Dec., 1968)#1 UK and "Brontosaurus"(April, 1970)#7 UK.
- 1962 - Rock instrumental group The Spectres formed in London, England by lead guitarist/lyricist Francis "Mike" Rossi (April 29, 1949 – ) and bassist Alan Lancaster (Feb. 7, 1949 – ).
- 1963 - Drummer John Coghlan (Sept. 19, 1946 – ) joined.
- 1965 - Changed their name to Traffic Jam.
- 1966 - Signed to Pye Records.
- 1967 - Became Status Quo.
- Consisting of Rossi, Lancaster, Coghlan, keyboardist Roy Lynes and guitarist Rick Parfitt (Richard Harrison) (Oct. 12, 1948 – ).
- They suffered 5 flop singles before having a British hit.
- Began as a psychedelic pop band in the 1960's, switching to working class pop/metal in the 1970's.
- 1977 - Andy Brown became a permanent member.
- 1982 - Coghlan replaced by Peter Kirchner.
- Hits include "Pictures Of Matchstick Men"(Jan., 1968)#7 UK, (May, 1968)#12 US, "Ice In The Sun"(Aug., 1968)#8 UK, (Sept., 1968)#70 US and "Caroline"(Sept., 1973)#5 UK.
- Julie Driscoll (June 8, 1947 – )
- Jazz/rock vocalist born in Lambeth Bridge, London, England.
- Brian Auger (July 18, 1939 – )
- Keyboardist born in Bihar, India, raised in London, England.
- Mid 1964 - Both worked in Steampacket with Long John Baldry and Rod Stewart.
- Late, 1967 - Julie Driscoll, Brian Auger & The Trinity was formed. The other two members were drummer Clive Thacker and bassist Dave Ambrose.
- Driscoll immediately became the focal point of the band with her cool jazzy vocals. She also garnered a following as a fashion trendsetter with the "Swinging London" crowd, famous for her frizzed out hair, star-lidded eye makeup and thrift shop clothes.
- Auger was one of Britain's most revered keyboardists.
- They were superstars in their homeland yet remained a cult act in the States.
- Driscoll, known as Jools caused a stir by hacking off her hair and inverting her eye makeup.
- 1969 - Driscoll quit during a tour of the U.S.
- Auger formed Oblivion Express with guitarist Jim Mullen.
- 1970 - Driscoll married jazz pianist Keith Tippett.
- Hits include "This Wheel's On Fire"(April, 1968)#5 UK, "Season Of The Witch"(1968), "Road To Cairo"(Nov., 1968) and "Indian Rope Man"(1969).
- 1967 - British rock quartet formed in Birmingham, England.
- Consisting of vocalist/keyboardist Stevie Winwood (Stephen Philip Winwood) (May 12, 1948 – ), guitarist Dave Mason (May 10, 1946 – ), drummer Jim Capaldi (Aug. 24, 1944 – ) and flautist/saxophonist Chris Wood (June 24, 1944 - July 12, 1983).
- 1963-1967 - Winwood had been the focal point of The Spencer Davis Group (see The British Invasion).
- 1967 - Their debut album, "Mr. Fantasy" was released.
- Dec., 1968 - Disbanded.
- 1969 - Winwood joined the short-lived Blind Faith with Eric Clapton.
- 1970 - Winwood, Wood and Capaldi reunited as a trio.
- 1971 - Percussionist Reebop Kwaaku Baah joined. Jim Gordon replaced Capaldi and Mason re-enlisted for one tour.
- Late, 1971 - Disbanded once again.
- 1972 - Reunited once more for an American tour.
- Disbanded.
- Winwood enjoyed a successful solo career during the 1980's (see Eighties Revue).
- Classic albums include "John Barrleycorn Must Die"(1970) and "Low Spark Of the High Heeled Boys"(1971).
- Hits include "Paper Sun"(June, 1967)#5 UK, (Sept., 1967)#94 US, "Hole In My Shoe"(Sept., 1967)#2 UK and "Empty Pages"(Sept., 1970)#74 US.
TEN YEARS AFTER
- See Rock And Pop Of The Seventies - White Blues
ALSO SEE
- Chapter 24: American Rock And Pop Of The Sixties
- Chapter 27: Glitter/Glam And Art Rock
- Chapter 29: Heavy Metal
BIBLIOGRAPHY
- Baez, Joan. "And A Voice To Sing With." (Summit Books).
- Bronson, Fred. "The Billboard Book Of Number One Hits." (Billboard Publications Inc.).
- Coleman, Ray. "Brian Epstein - The Man Who Made The Beatles." (Viking).
- Dalton, David. "Janis." (Simon & Schuster).
- Dalton, David. "The Rolling Stones - The First Twenty Years." (Alfred A. Knopf, Inc.).
- Edwards, Henry & Tony Zanetta. "The David Bowie Story - Stardust." (McGraw-Hill).
- Ehrenstein, David & Bill Reed. "Rock On Film." (G.P. Putnam's Sons).
- Elliott, Martin. "The Rolling Stones Complete Recording Sessions." (Blandford).
- Ewen, David. "All The Years Of American Popular Music." (Prentice - Hall).
- Fong-Torres, Ben. "Hickory Wind - The Life And Times Of Gram Parsons." (Pocket Books).
- Friedman, Myra. "Buried Alive - The Biography Of Janis Joplin." (William Morrow & Co. Inc.).
- Fulpen, H.V. "The Beatles - An Illustrated Diary." (Plexus Publishing Ltd.).
- Gillett, Charlie & Simon Frith. "Rock File 4." (Panther Books).
- Gillett, Charlie & Simon Frith. "Rock File 5." (Panther Books).
- Gleason, Ralph J. "Jefferson Airplane And The San Francisco Sound." (Ballantine Books).
- Goddard & Kamin. "Shakin' All Over." (McGraw-Hill Ryerson Ltd.).
- Gray, Andy. "Great Pop Stars." (The Hamlyn Publishing Group Inc.).
- Hardy, Phil & Dave Laing. "The Encyclopedia Of Rock - Volume 3 - The Sounds Of The Seventies." (Panther Books).
- Henderson, David. "'Scuse Me While I Kiss The Sky - The Life Of Jimi Hendrix." (Bantam Books).
- Herman, Gary. "Rock 'N' Roll Babylon." (Perigee Books).
- Hopkins, Jerry. "Festival - The Book Of American Music Celebrations" (Collier Books).
- Hopkins, Jerry & Daniel Sugerman. "No One Gets Out Of Here Alive." (Warner Books).
- Hounsome, Terry & Tim Chambre. "Rock Record." (Facts On File Inc.).
- Kent Hall, Douglas & Sue C. Clark. "The Superstars - In Their Own Words." (Music Sales Corporation).
- Landau, Deborah. "Janis Joplin - Her Life And Times." (Paperback Library).
- Lazell, Barry & Dafydd Rees. "The Illustrated Book Of Rock Records - A Book Of Lists." (Virgin Books Ltd.).
- Logan, Nick & Bob Woffinden. "Illustrated Encyclopedia Of Rock." (Harmony).
- Logan, Nick & Bob Woffinden. "The NME Book Of Rock - 2." (A Star Book).
- Marsh, Dave. "The Heart Of Rock And Roll." (Penguin).
- Marsh, Dave And Kevin Stein. "The Book Of Rock Lists." (Dell Publishing Inc.).
- Marsh, Ritchie & Sam Johnson. "Encyclopedia Of Rock/Pop Stars." (Gallery Books).
- Melhuish, Martin. "Heart Of Gold." (CBC Enterprises).
- Miller, Jim (Editor). "The Rolling Stone Illustrated History Of Rock & Roll." (Random House).
- Murrells, Joseph. "Million Selling Records." (Arco).
- Norman, Philip. "Shout - The True Story Of The Beatles." (Elm Tree Books).
- Orloff, Katherine. "Rock 'N Roll Woman." (Nash Publishing).
- Palmer, Tony. "All You Need Is Love." (The Macmillan Company).
- Rice, Tim, Jo Rice, Paul Gambaccini & Mike Read. "Guinness British Singles." (GRRR Books Ltd. and Guinness Superlatives Ltd.).
- Rowes, Barbara. "Grace Slick - The Biography." (Doubleday & Company, Inc.).
- Roxon, Lillian. "Rock Encyclopedia." (Grosset & Dunlap).
- Scaduto, Anthony. "Bob Dylan - An Intimate Biography." (Grosset & Dunlap Inc.).
- Shapiro, Harry & Caesar Glebbeek. "Jimi Hendrix - Electric Gypsy." (Heinemann).
- Shaw, Arnold. "Dictionary Of American Pop/Rock." (Schirmer Books).
- Shotton, Pete And Nicholas Schaffner. "John Lennon - In My Life." (Stein And Day Publishers).
- Simon, George T. & Friends. "The Best Of The Music Makers." (Doubleday & Co.).
- Smith, Joe. "Off The Record." (Warner Books).
- Spitz, Robert Stephen. "The Making Of Superstars." (Anchor Press/Doubleday).
- Taylor, Derek. "It Was Twenty Years Ago Today." (Simon & Schuster).
- Tobler, John & Stuart Grundy. "Guitar Greats." (British Broadcasting Corporation).
- Various. Editors Of Creem Magazine. "Rock Revolution." (Popular Library).
- Various. Annie Leibovitz (Editor). "Shooting Stars - The Rolling Stone Book Of Portraits." (Straight Arrow Books).
- Whitburn, Joel. "The Billboard Book Of Top 40 Hits." (Billboard Publications Inc.).
- Whitburn, Joel. "Bubbling Under The Hot 100 - 1959 - 1985." (Record Research).
- Whitburn, Joel. "Top Pop Singles 1955 - 1990." (Record Research).
- Worth, Fred L. "Thirty Years Of Rock 'N Roll Trivia." (Warner Books).