gold star for USAHOF

386. Richie Havens

Richie Havens is best known for his opening set at Woodstock and this just seems appropriate to us. While most Folk stars seemed content to play in a mellow fashion, Havens pounded on his guitar as if his life depended on it. With his gruff voice and poignant messages, Havens was a brilliant protest singer and easily among the best live acts in Folk. Looking back, was there really anyone else who could have kicked off Woodstock better than Havens?