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Alien Being (Album) by Jor Music
Category: Music
Woodstock 1969, conceived as the Woodstock Music & Art Festival, was so special and made it an epic music festival mainly because people there turned it into something completely different from what the organizers planned and intended. Woodstock 1969 was placed in a time when many of the most legendary, influential, and epic popular rock bands and rock artists from in US music history could attend.
Anyway, Woodstock wasn’t the only notable music festival happening during the summer of ’69 in the US but it was the biggest. Other noteworthy music festivals happening around that time in North America were the Denver Pop Festival (June 27-29), Newport Jazz Festival (July 3-6), Atlanta Pop Festival (July 4-5), Texas Inter-Pop Festival (August 30-September 1), and the Toronto Rock and Roll Revival (September 13).
The lack of well-organized infrastructure, such as fencing and ticket booths, the social movements occurring at the time, and the nature of the culture surrounding the rock scene at that time contributed to the festival’s spontaneous and chaotic nature, which made it become an epic celebration of people that made the lack of organization an opportunity to fit with what kind of epic weekend they would like to experience there.
A festival is all about the experience in it, people don’t go to music festivals to live the same feeling and culture as the other ones, and especially it is not so easy to make something for profit artistic enough to give that feeling. The organizers of Woodstock 1969 vision was different from what the artists on stage or the festival attendees wanted to experience. Anyway, not only that but all the bands expected to be there didn’t make it to the stage.
The fluid and spontaneous nature of the festival led to numerous changes in the lineup and scheduling. Some scheduled performers did not make it to the festival, and there were some unscheduled appearances as well. Additionally, the schedule was greatly delayed due to the large crowds, logistical issues, and adverse weather conditions, causing some performances to occur at different times than originally planned. Those scheduled and lineup changes are listed in this article as well.
Which bands/musicians played at Woodstock 1969 Festival?
The Woodstock 1969 Festival took place from August 15 to 18, 1969, and featured a diverse lineup of bands and musicians representing various genres vastly from the US. The list of all the bands and artists who played at Woodstock, organized by the day of their performances:
Woodstock 1969 Friday, August 15
Richie Havens
Swami Satchidananda
Sweetwater
Bert Sommer
Tim Hardin
Ravi Shankar
Melanie
Arlo Guthrie
Joan Baez
Woodstock 1969 Saturday, August 16
Quill
Country Joe McDonald
John Sebastian
Santana (The only band from Mexico in Woodstock 1969)
Keef Hartley Band
The Incredible String Band
Canned Heat
Mountain
Grateful Dead
Creedence Clearwater Revival
Janis Joplin with The Kozmic Blues Band
Sly & The Family Stone
The Who (The only band from The UK in Woodstock 1969)
Jefferson Airplane
Woodstock 1969 Sunday, August 17
Joe Cocker and The Grease Band
Country Joe McDonald
Ten Years After
The Band
Johnny Winter
Blood, Sweat & Tears
Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
Paul Butterfield Blues Band
Sha Na Na
Jimi Hendrix
Which scheduled bands didn’t participate in Woodstock 1969?
Few of the artists who were initially scheduled to play at Woodstock did not make it to the festival for various reasons. Some of the notable absentees include:
The Jeff Beck Group
Jeff Beck and his band were originally on the lineup but withdrew just days before the festival. Beck cited concerns about the size of the audience and the lack of professionalism among the organizers.
The Byrds
The Byrds were invited but declined to perform. There are conflicting accounts of the reasons, with some citing great concerns about the size of the audience and others mentioning contractual issues.
Iron Butterfly
Although they were listed in the early promotional materials, Iron Butterfly had to cancel their appearance due to their management’s concerns about the rough conditions at the festival site.
Joni Mitchell
Joni Mitchell was slated to perform but had to skip the festival because her manager at the time, David Geffen, urged her to prioritize an appearance on The Dick Cavett Show instead.
Tommy James and the Shondells
They declined the invitation to perform at Woodstock because of a conflict with a scheduled appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show.
Jethro Tull
Jethro Tull was reportedly invited but chose not to participate, as they were concerned about being stuck in the traffic getting to the festival.
Was Woodstock for free/ a free festival?
Woodstock 1969 was initially planned as a commercial enterprise but evolved into a “free festival” due to the inability of the organizers to set up fences and ticket booths before the event’s commencement. Attendees could purchase tickets for the three-day festival for $18 in advance or $24 at the door.
Woodstock originated as a conceived profit-making venture, an ambitious vision that aimed to encapsulate the spirit of the counterculture movement of the late 1960s. However, the trajectory of the event took an unexpected turn, transforming it into a historic “free concert” that would forever be etched in the annals of music and cultural history.
The original intention was to organize a festival that celebrated music and served as a commercial endeavor. Plans included the installation of fences and ticket booths to manage the influx of attendees. However, as fate would have it, circumstances unfolded that thwarted these preparations, preventing the organizers from implementing the intended infrastructure before the opening day.
Facing the logistical challenge of constructing barriers and ticketing facilities within the limited timeframe, the organizers were compelled to reconsider their approach. It was under these unforeseen circumstances that the decision was made to offer Woodstock as a “free concert,” a departure from the initially conceived profit-oriented model.
In the spirit of the times, where the ideals of peace, love, and music were paramount, the organizers embraced the notion of making the event more accessible to a wider audience. As a result, the three-day celebration of music, art, and community was made open to all.
This turn of events marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of Woodstock but also reflected the ethos of a generation seeking communal experiences and a break from convention. The unintentional transformation from a profit-driven enterprise to a “free concert” underscored the power of spontaneity and the organic nature of a cultural movement that would define an era. Woodstock, in its altered form, became a symbol of unity, breaking down barriers, both literal and metaphorical, and leaving an indelible imprint on the collective memory of a generation that yearned for a different kind of harmony.
Main Differences between the way Woodstock ’69 was organized and the way contemporary music festivals are organized
The way Woodstock 1969 was organized was not well considered at the time it occurred, and contemporary ways of organizing musical festivals differ in fundamental aspects of it. But the lack of well-structured enterprise gave accidentally space to the people participating as musical artistic performers and the mass attending to transcend the organizers’ plans and transform Woodstock into an epic music festival.
While the spontaneous and improvisational aspects of Woodstock are celebrated as part of its cultural significance, they also could contribute to the perception of a lack of formal organization. The festival unfolded in an unplanned way, with attendees and performers adapting to the evolving circumstances.
Some of the differences between the organization at Woodstock 1969 and present music festivals are:
Planning and Logistics
Organizers of Woodstock 1969 in Sullivan County New York, initially expected around 50,000 attendees, but the actual turnout was estimated to be around 400,000. The sheer magnitude of the crowd far exceeded the capacity planned for, leading to logistical challenges in terms of providing essential services, ensuring safety, and managing the massive influx of people.
Contemporary music festivals typically involve extensive planning, often starting months or even years in advance. Organizers use advanced project management techniques, technology, and logistics planning to address issues such as crowd control, transportation, security, and accommodations.
Festival Ticketing and Entry
Also the organization of Woodstock 1969 lacked of essential infrastructure. The original plan included fences and ticket booths, but due to the unexpected attendance and the decision to make the event free, these structures were not in place. This absence of basic organizational elements contributed to difficulties in crowd control and access.
Ticketing for modern music festivals is a well-established process with online sales, tiered pricing, and various ticket options. Strict entry procedures, including security checks, wristbands, and electronic ticket scanning, are in place to ensure a smooth and secure experience for attendees.
Infrastructure and Amenities Of The Festival
Woodstock 1969 lacked essential infrastructure, such as proper stages, sanitation facilities, and medical services. The festival site struggled with mud and adverse weather conditions. The rain turned the festival grounds into a muddy mess. The weather exacerbated logistical challenges and created discomfort for both attendees and performers.
The overwhelming attendance and lack of planned infrastructure, basic amenities such as proper stages, sanitation facilities, and medical services were limited. The makeshift nature of the festival site contributed to a less-than-ideal environment for attendees.
Contemporary musical festivals invest heavily in infrastructure to provide amenities such as well-designed stages, clean and accessible restrooms, medical facilities, food and beverage options, and designated camping areas. The goal is to enhance the overall attendee experience and they should ensure their well-being. Also, weather conditions continue to make the organization of musical festivals a struggle.
Festivals’ Environmental Considerations
Environmental concerns were not a focal point at Woodstock 1969, and the festival site faced challenges such as mud and waste management.
Contemporary festivals incorporate eco-friendly practices, sustainability initiatives, and waste reduction programs to minimize their environmental impact. Sustainable initiatives, such as recycling programs and renewable energy sources, are increasingly common.
The Festival’s Security
Unlike Woodstock 1969, it is common practice of contemporary music festivals to prioritize comprehensive security measures, including trained personnel, surveillance systems, and crowd control strategies, giving great importance to the safety and well-being of attendees.
Broad Use Of Technology in Festivals
The extensive use of technology has significantly improved the production quality of music festivals. Better sound systems, lighting, and stage setups enhance the overall experience for both performers and audiences. Plus the use of communication to the audience through mobile apps. I’ll list a few aspects where technology is extensively used in contemporary festivals:
Ticketing and Access Control
Festivals use advanced ticketing platforms to sell tickets online, allowing attendees to purchase tickets in advance and often providing tiered pricing options.
Many festivals have dedicated mobile apps that provide real-time schedules, maps, and essential information. Attendees can receive updates, set reminders for performances, and navigate the festival grounds.
Organizers use push notifications to communicate important announcements, schedule changes, and emergency information directly to attendees’ smartphones.
Electronic Ticketing, Wristbands, and Other Cashless Transactions
Cashless payment systems using RFID technology allow attendees to make purchases using wristbands or cards. This reduces wait times, enhances security, and provides a convenient way for attendees to manage their spending.
Security and Surveillance:
CCTV and Surveillance Technology
Festivals deploy advanced surveillance systems, including CCTV cameras, to monitor crowds, enhance security, and respond quickly to potential issues.
Access Control Systems are used to control access points, manage crowd flow, and ensure the safety of attendees.
Sound Reinforcement
State-of-the-art sound systems and acoustics technology are used to deliver high-quality audio experiences for performers and attendees. Also, advanced lighting systems, including LED technology and programmable lighting rigs, enhance the visual spectacle of performances.
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Virtual Festival Experiences: Some festivals offer virtual reality (VR) experiences, allowing remote attendees to virtually participate in the event or providing on-site attendees with immersive content. Also, augmented Reality Apps: Augmented reality apps may enhance the physical environment with digital information, interactive elements, or promotional content.
Social Media Integration
Festivals leverage social media platforms to live-stream performances, interviews, and behind-the-scenes content, reaching a global audience. Attendees share their experiences on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, contributing to the festival’s online presence.
Data Analytics
Attendee Insights: Organizers use data analytics to gather insights into attendee behavior, preferences, and demographics. This information helps in making informed decisions for future events and improving the overall festival experience.
Artificial Intelligence (AI): Some festivals explore the use of AI for tasks such as predictive analytics, crowd management, and personalizing attendee experiences.
Blockchain: Blockchain technology may be employed for transparent and secure ticketing systems, reducing fraud and scalping.
Melody is a fundamental element of musical pieces, and its definition in artistic expression is not as simple as defined in words. A great example of the difference between intentional and extensional definitions of linguistic expressions.
Melody Definition In Words
The word melody originates from the Greek term melos which means song. From melos, derived the word used both in Greek and Late Latin melōidia, then to the Old French melodie.
We create a melody by arranging a particular sequence of notes and accomplishing a satisfying piece of music. Whether it is presented in the form of chords or not, the length, tempo, instrument, quantity of instruments, and medium are not considered to define whether it is a melody or not. Consequently, the type of music of the particular melody is also irrelevant in its definition.
Melody Defined By Musicians
Certainly, melody is presently perceived mostly as a single, cohesive entity in intention, musicians have a broader say about its definition.
Here I present in a form of playlist a few unconventional melodic compositions of music in practice that are considered rhythmically distinctive, unusual, or innovative in various ways:
Hildegard Von Bingen – O Virtus Sapientiae
Hildegard Von Bingen, a medieval composer, created music that was highly innovative for its time. “O Virtus Sapientiae” is an example of her monophonic, chant-like melodies that exhibit a mystical and contemplative quality.
Meredith Monk – Dolmen Music
Meredith Monk is a composer known for her innovative vocal techniques and non-traditional use of the voice. “Dolmen Music” features extended vocal techniques, unconventional harmonies, and a unique blending of voices to create a haunting and otherworldly atmosphere.
Béla Bartók – Music for Strings, Percussion, and Celesta
Béla Bartók, a Hungarian composer, was known for incorporating folk elements into his compositions. This piece features complex rhythms, unusual scales, and intricate melodies, creating a unique and atmospheric musical experience.
Iannis Xenakis – Metastasis
Iannis Xenakis, a Greek-French composer, was an avant-garde pioneer. “Metastasis” is characterized by its complex mathematical structures and lack of a traditional melodic line, instead focusing on the manipulation of sound masses.
Erik Satie – Vexations
Erik Satie’s “Vexations” is an extremely unusual piece due to its performance instructions. The short, simple theme is to be repeated 840 times, creating a meditative and somewhat absurd experience.
Igor Stravinsky – The Rite of Spring
This early 20th-century ballet and orchestral work composed by Igor Stravinsky, shocked audiences with its rhythmic complexity, dissonant harmonies, and unconventional use of melody. The piece is known for its primal and ritualistic qualities.
Fela Kuti – Water No Get Enemy
Fela Kuti AKA Abàmì Ẹ̀dá, a musician, composer, socio-political activist, and Pan-Africanist. One of the most epic representatives of Afrobeat, a Nigerian music genre that combines West African music with American funk and jazz. “Water No Get Enemy” features intricate polyrhythms, a hypnotic groove, and a unique blend of jazz, highlife, and traditional African music.
Oumou Sangaré – Mogoya
Oumou Sangaré, a singer and songwriter, is known for her fusion of traditional Wassoulou music with contemporary styles. “Mogoya” showcases her powerful vocals and a melody that draws from both African and global influences.
Frank Zappa – Peaches en Regalia
Frank Zappa was known for his eclectic and unconventional approach to music. “Peaches en Regalia” is a fusion of various genres, featuring complex instrumental arrangements, unexpected twists, and a playful, unpredictable melody.
György Ligeti – Lux Aeterna
György Ligeti was known for his avant-garde compositions, and “Lux Aeterna” is particularly unusual due to its dense clusters of voices and micro-polyphonic textures. The piece was used in the soundtrack of Stanley Kubrick’s film “2001: A Space Odyssey.”
Ornette Coleman – Lonely Woman
Ornette Coleman was a key figure in the free jazz movement. “Lonely Woman” is known for its emotive and unconventional melody, featuring wide interval jumps and a sense of unpredictability.
Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band – Frownland
Captain Beefheart, the stage name of Don Van Vliet, was known for his avant-garde approach to rock music. “Frownland” features dissonant and sometimes weird melodies, unconventional song structures, and complex rhythms, showcasing Beefheart’s idiosyncratic musical vision.
Brian Eno – Music for Airports
Brian Eno, a pioneer of ambient music, created “Music for Airports” as part of his ambient series. The melodies are subtle and repetitive, designed to create a tranquil and atmospheric background rather than a traditional foreground focus.
John Cage – 4’33”
This is a performance where the sounds of the environment constitute the music while the performer or performers wouldn’t intend to play. As you would expect this piece is often considered one of the most unconventional and intentionally weirdest considered compositions in the history of music. The performer sits in silence for four minutes and thirty-three seconds, highlighting ambient sounds in the environment as the “music.”
Categories
Upbeat Music Playlist
So many times the best solution to anything is the most simple one. And you come back to the best of you is just to play the right upbeat music and upbeat song.
This personal upbeat music playlist is composed by the ones that make me smile, get reactivated, dance and do and accomplish whatever is want at the moment.
Zara Larsson – Lush Life
This is the kind of songs that take you from unnecessary overthinking to enjoyment. Forget everything smile and enjoy everything and everyone around you.
My favorite part of the song:
I live my day as if it was the last
Live my day as if there was no past
Doin’ it all night, all summer
Doin’ it the way I wanna
Yeah, I’ma dance my heart out ’til the dawn
But I won’t be done when morning comes
Doin’ it all night, all summer
Gonna spend it like no other
Yaeji – Raingurl
I try to adapt the lyrics of this on the idea of being ready and fearless of anything on the way. Like, bring it on! Best part when she says make it rain, raingurl make it rain!
Tim Impala – Let it happen
When we let it happen and let go with courage, accepting we are existing among so many things we didn’t start, and it is about going through making it awesome and enjoying the ride.
Sometimes I listen to this song I close my eyes and I meditate, continuing the day stronger than before. Awesome for work out as well
Simon Field – Shake The Tree
Don’t let the lion sleep gotta shake the tree! Be the lion of your day the hero of your life.
Sacre – The Call
This song and it’s lyrics invite you to focus on being yourself and celebrate who you are in union.
I couldn’t mention a little part of the lyrics without mention a big chunk of it:
We’re all Going to celebrate now
Let’s make some noise
Ready, steady, moving on up to the future,
Reach out we can light the stars
Ready steady, all the way up,
Be a trooper
Express who you are!
Ready steady, never give up
Spark the fire
Tonight we’ll ignite the sky
Ready steady no one can stop
What we started
Just open your eyes!
Steppenwolf – Born To Be Wild
If you sometimes feel overwhelmed by other people’s expectations of how you should be or which way you should take, this is liberating to listen to.
When you realize you were born to be you, to express yourself and authenticity, and this always means to be a bit or a lot different, and why not wild? Born to be wild!
A playlist of some of the Brazilian songs that I like and admire, with a nice variety of instruments and styles. Lots of the music I make and produce have some Brazilian culture as an influence.
Elis Regina – Tiro Ao Álvaro
Luiz Gonzaga – Asa Branca
Rosa Passos – É Luxo Só
Tim Maia – O Descobridor Dos Sete Mares