Saturday, August 15, 2009

Bans Woodstock Celebrations, Again


The overrated Woodstock festival -- which lasted three days -- turns 40 today. And again we must suffer through the accolades from media figures who were not there, who overestimate its impact while forgetting the festivals and fairs that made it possible.

Woodstock began on August 15, 1969. With Richie Havens sitting with an acoustic guitar (an Italian invention) and playing a British song.

Scarborough Fair began traditionally on August 15, some time in the 11th or 12th century, and lasted 45 days. It inspired better music than Woodstock (compare Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young's tepid 'Woodstock' and the repeatedly covered folk song 'Scarborough Fair'). There is no comparison.

TBAW asks you to sit out on the celebrations of the 40-year-old event.