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Exploring the Ageing Woodstock Generation

The Woodstock generation is not only aging but also slowly fading away. People who were 20 in 1969 are now reaching the age of 70. This reflects the changing landscape of music festivals and the cultural icons of their time. Today, we may recall the legendary festival, but personal experiences of attending such events can be scarce. I remember being 14 during Woodstock and aspiring to attend. A local friend was willing to give rides for gas money, but my parents strictly forbidden it. They told me not to come back if I went, and I took it seriously.

Memories of Early Music Festivals

The Mississippi River Festival in Illinois stands as a significant memory from my early years. Starting in 1969, this festival progressed into a weekly summer event, setting the stage for a lively music scene. By the time I was old enough to drive, I found myself spending weekends driving to these festivals, eagerly awaiting who would perform. The chart below provides a detailed look at the setlists from every year, and you can click the links to see who played each year.

setlists from 1969 to

1969 1970 1971 1972 1973

Other Experiences with Music Festivals

While I didn’t participate in Woodstock, I remember a trip with my family to the Haight Ashbury district in San Francisco during the 'Summer of Love' in 1967. Despite being a family with young children, we found an unlikely bond with the hippie culture. I remember walking through the area and feeling the energy of the time. Regular families lived in that area, and our presence likely stood out as unusual.

Another early experience was attending the Mississippi River Festival with my friends and family. The festival offered an incredible opportunity to hear major artists perform. Admission cost just 2 dollars, and the lineup featured almost every major artist from the era. It was a true testament to the musical legacy of the 1960s.

Personal Reflections

It's important to reflect on these experiences, not just as a way to understand the past, but also to appreciate how far we've come. The Woodstock generation brought about significant changes and laid the foundation for many of the cultural norms we hold today. However, as these individuals age, it's crucial to capture and preserve their memories, as they hold valuable insights into a pivotal era of music and culture.

Conclusion

Music festivals have been a significant part of cultural life, and the Woodstock era represents a unique and memorable period. While personal experiences may be limited, understanding the broader context and connecting with the stories of those who were there can enrich our understanding of this transformative time. Whether it was attending the Mississippi River Festival or witnessing the 'Summer of Love,' these experiences shape our appreciation for the music and the resilience of the human spirit.

Setlists from Mississippi River Festival

1969: Cream, Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin 1970: Fleetwood Mac, Carlos Santana, The Band, Led Zeppelin 1971: Emerson, Lake Palmer, The Doobie Brothers, Fleetwood Mac 1972: Steely Dan, Jimi Hendrix Experience, Genesis, Rolling Stones 1973: Pink Floyd, The Eagles, Eric Clapton, Fleetwood Mac