Speaking Freely: Richie Havens

S03 E11
www.newseuminstitute.org
Originally aired on July 30, 2002

[@HarrisonCruse-y9b]

Richie Havens sang, worked and hoped for world peace what a wonderful man he still is

[@sillavnitram]

It's impossible not to love this man. So much dignity and grace.

[@richardnish6469]

I was fortunate wo see him 5 feet in front of me twice in 1967, Cafe Au Go Go. Best music ever. Will carry it/him with me forever.

[@savedfaves]

I love that song. It was first preformed on the Woodstock stage 54 years ago (2023 as I type this) and the power of that song still resonates today. Yes, the song borrows from two gospel songs, but it's how the whole thing came together in the coming with this unique strumming style and heart-power as a stream of consciousness that somehow allows this song to resonate across time. It is timeless. Paul Simon said you can only repeat something twice in a row in a song, but it turns out he's definitely wrong on that one.

[@dianadorer4135]

The beautiful Richie Havens. I wish he was still on Earth.

[@Mine-kn6-789]

Thank you, Richie Havens for your gift of music & the greatest 1969 impromptu song, ‘Freedom.’

[@judithhand4987]

As I read through the replies, I have FREEDOM running through my mind...then "Morning", then...

[@tulayamalavenapi4028]

Pursuant to Havens's request he was cremated and his ashes were scattered from the air over the original site of the Woodstock Festival, in a ceremony held on August 18, 2013, the 44th anniversary of the festival's last day. 😓🙏🏻🍂🕊️🍂🙏🏻😓

[@shanamckinnon1071]

Possibly the most profound musician and speaker I’ve ever been able to hear and see, a beautiful combination of grace, gentleness, pose, philosopher, comedian, and poet.

[@candicemeskin4157]

the ever amazing Richie Havens....this is a wonderful interview.....deep, interesting, humorous and, and, and.....a goodie for old hip's and new hip's alike .....enjoy ❤

[@kathiburger6018]

I'd never seen this before - just amazing, just like Richie always was. Such a gentle soul. I miss him so but his music and his message will never fade.

[@cyndifoore7743]

kathi burger we need his gentleness now. What a peaceful man.

[@leehuff9901]

Right on, love you Richie R.I.P.

[@billyje4726]

Love You Richie!! 🙏❤️🙏 He is amazing!! He is god sent!

[@judithhand4987]

Richie, I'm so glad that you aren't around to see what's been going on in America in the last few years! It's heart-breaking. SO LOVELY to be able to hear and see you at various times in your life, thanks to KZbin. Your voice and style are unmatchable and bring back fabulous, free feelings!

[@geraldmorgan2539]

Mr Richie Havens the real deal that's for sure will always be tops for me

[@frustr8dgolfur]

How true. I often speak to my Mom, who's now deceased, about the same thing.

[@funkyfishcloneloverofmusic3825]

but he is watching it all, and he left his impact ... to be honest, it only was yesterday, that i learned of him. I am born 1968 in the GDR. i have no recollection of ever before heard about him. Now that i know ... man such a revelation ... funny, i think some elements of his playing style is not unlike my own, but now i will really cultivate these bits inspired by just his playing, but i will study him as a whole ... cant wait for my local bookstore to open and oganise his book for me, hate buying anything from A

[@jakezonis17]

Richie we need u back

[@jakezonis17]

In the late 80s David Bender produced a benefit show for a NYC food pantry featuring James Taylor, Linda Rondstat, and Richie. He told me they were all magnificent, but the next day, when the pantry passed out food collected at the concert, it was Richie who went down there with his guitar to give the same concert to the families and kids in the line. That’s just who he was.

[@italobambino43]

What a Gem, sadly, we lost so many superbly talented Artists in the last decade. This man was gold! RIP Mr. Havens.

[@kamuelalee]

My friend Richie...though we've never met...will be missed greatly.

[@SoNoFTheMoSt]

Richie is the only artist from the 70s that your kids can meet and not be scared.

[@YTChango1]

One of the Greatest Folk-Rock-Singers and Guitar Players! I was Bless to witness Brother Richie Havens in Concert approximately 2007 at World Café in Philly-a Dream come True-I was at Woodstock in Doors---Bless His Soul! Brother Riche Havens sweating the Music out of his Heart and Soul-A Great Performance on the Sacred Spot and in the Magnificent Moment---Bless Him for that Gift of Woodstock Music he gave to us Forever-and he Opened and Started Woodstock Up-the First Artist of the Day---for 3-Hours--He got Caught-Up in the Spirit of His Music--Artistic Natural Brilliance--Coming the WarmSoulWater in His DeepSoulWell---Bless His Soul-Now and Always. Bless His Soul--Now and Always.

[@opadennis]

I had the honor and pleasure of meeting and talking to Richie several times. He was an artist and a Saint.

[@ethelsoukey7505]

You are fortunate to have met him and I feel fortunate to enjoy his music and poetry.

[@ryanblount4912]

This brings righteous tears from my eyes . I miss this message and lovely music desperately. All of the drama and lies from our corrupt government in 2022. Beautiful soul

[@sid7088]

The government has always been corrupt.

[@chrismanley9360]

Can tell this is a while ago. Any show that talks about "Free expression" was a while back. Love Richie Havens.

[@gregory8518]

Every person in this country should watch/listen to this interview,so much in tune with what's going on with FREE SPEECH right now 12-12-22 Richie Havens rest in peace 🕊️ brother

[@jamesforler6897]

Brilliant man explaining difficult concepts with ease and grace.

[@jayviviano109]

Richie Havens such a beautiful soul & unique artist. I read his autobiography. Great insights & stories. The one that threw me for a loop, I didn't expect to come across in his book was his insights about Elvis, and moving account of their meeting. Mutual friend in music business told Richie that Elvis was a fan of his work and wanted to meet him so Richie was brought to a meet and greet before one of Elvis's concerts. Said when he walked in, Elvis looked over his shoulder, spun around jumping out of his chair, and put his arms out for a hug. After a embrace they spoke about their mutual respect for each other then Elvis asked Richie to walk with him to the stage where they embraced one more time, saying their goodbyes and Elvis disappeared into the crowd and lights. Richie seemed to see past all the mythology and negative hype that the tabloids had fun with regarding Elvis at that time, and saw a sensitive soul that really was not only a true talent but a down-to-earth, sweet guy that was more a victim of the stresses and pressures of the entertainment business. (This is very much the way BB King, Muhammad Ali and James Brown also described Elvis). Interesting the things we learn. Rest In Peace to them All

[@DiandraStarShine]

thanks for sharing that..because I was born in the late 1960's and I remember Elvis, of course, and knew his music, enjoyed much of it..I even went to Graceland once, with some colleagues, during a business trip to Memphis. but there were people told me terrible things about him..and then in archive footage [in one of the docos ] Col. Tom said something about how Elvis would have hated that Lisa Marie had married Michael Jackson because he was old-fashioned about things like that..and I was horrified..esp., since I grew up in a large, extended multi-ethnic family myself..and hearing that was a huge disappointment...so, thanks again for commenting what you learned re: the positive things those other musicians said about Elvis.👍🙋🏾‍♀️

[@jayviviano109]

@@DiandraStarShineYes. I can understand that. I've known some people over the years that had similar experience to yours hearing stuff about Elvis that effected how they felt. We have to also understand some of those people in charge of Elvis Legacy should not be speaking on Elvis behalf because some of them were actually just making stuff up .... putting their own opinions, spin and views on Elvis. But EP was much more Progressive-minded than some of those in charge of his legacy over the years. He had to call out some of his white folks and bodyguards on their bigotry over the years. None of those people of course bothered to ever tell the truth about those stories in their interviews and books. But fortunately there were other Witnesses to those events and situations, which is the only reason I'm aware of them. When I found out he was calling out some of the bigotry among people around him it made me respect him even more. As for your mention of Micheal & Lisa, EP introduced The Jackson 5 to his audience one night when they were in in attendance to one of his concerts in 1974. There's actually audio of that somewhere on KZbin. And he thought it was great that Lisa Marie had an interest in the Jackson 5 when she was a little girl in the 70s. He arranged for her to meet Michael. Jackson family members have documented this. So in a way it could be said that Elvis was the one that set up their original introduction in the first place.... (even if it happened a couple decades before they got married) So anywayvwe can't trust some those clowns out there trying to speak on Elvis behalf when they're pushing viewpoints that would imply he was too old fashioned to allow his daughter to marry someone that wasn't White. That's non-sense though. He had many friends that were from multi-ethnic families and in mixed marriages, many of them over the years said Elvis never once gave the impression he was anything less than 100% supportive & cool with it. Some of those less-evolved people that knew Elvis .... their credibility is toast. They were probably the very type of white folks that behind the scenes he was calling them out on their close-mindedness. I would like to invite you to a Facebook group. Don't know if you're on there but if so please feel free to save the link below and come check it out, request to join. We actually discuss stuff like this very topic on that group. One member had a post about his meeting with Civil Rights activist Andrew Young (Andrew Young of course worked very closely with Doctor Martin Luther King throughout Civil Rights Movement) Andrew Young revealed to my friend and room-full of people some very interesting unknown info regarding Elvis's involvement with his reaching out to Martin Luther King and his financial support to help the Civil Rights Movement. This is something that most people back in the day and the media & press were unaware of. (And Many of the close-minded folks attached to Elvis Legacy kept this hidden, ignored it and never bothered to share it.... Fortunately Andrew Young shared it.) ( Elvis also beat up a racist named Troy Ivy in 1967 for harassing his black friend. Most people don't know anything about that either, not even many Elvis fans know. EP didnt play when it came to close-mindedness. Amazing all the things hidden in history) If you're interested you can read details on this link below about Andrew Young revelation regarding Elvis. Take care. m.facebook.com/groups/197327014069344/permalink/400322203769823/

[@renaejohnson9338]

Beautiful soul. Rest in Soul and Peace.

[@kiddmarlowe1534]

Long live Richie Havens! Sounding better than ever. So percussive. A rhythm machine. Big heart and soul in his music. It's just who he is. Notice the wrap around pickguard.

[@Razzzz77]

Yes....Much Respect! Like a Prophet, Peace & Love, Glad I was on the earth the same time as Richie Havens .

[@joedefilippo8908]

A brilliant performer and human being. We miss your presence...tho your music lives on

[@myawesomelife9269]

This is the best interview of Mr. Havens that I have ever seen. He is among the best musicians that ever lived; along with Barry White, Buddy Holly and Lou Rawls. We will never see such talent again. The beauty of Mr. Havens is that, no matter what genre of music you prefer, he deserves your utmost respect. He doesn't need sheet music or tablature. He just closes his eyes and lets the music flow. He did it in 1969 at Woodstock and he did it until he died. He had the courage just to be that first performance at Woodstock, and was forced to make a new song (because the next act was delayed) which became his career defining moment. There will never be another musician like you Mr. Havens.

[@qoquaq]

Really enjoyed this, thanks. Ritche & Walter worked so well together.

[@daka6900]

So lucky to have met richie havens at the rhythm festival in England 2008 he signed a cd for me and we had a long talk about the music and about life he was just so awake and so very real i shall never forget him R.I.P brother

[@judithhand4987]

Enjoyed reading your experience. Tx.

[@jornfox3545]

lucky you.

[@Susiji108]

We've come a long way....but we are still protesting all over the world for our @/freedom Thank YOU Richie for our Anthem

[@thomaspick4123]

A wonderful performer. So much feeling in his voice. Great rhythm guitarist. He developed his own sound and style. One size does not fit all. There are not many ways to get there, only one way to get there. Cremated, his ashes were scattered by airplane over Woodstock. I enjoyed reading his book. Each of his albums have gems embedded. Richie had the best intentions for human relations.

[@geraldmorgan2539]

Tears rolling down my face watching this great man

[@alexanderthegreat825]

Love this man . This man IS LOVE .Ya dig ? Cheers . We are the ones we've been waiting for . Spread truth . Be consistent Be persistent

[@macspleen3628]

What a beautiful man and great musician

[@justgivemethetruth]

Richie Havens was so great. I was massively impressed with his performance in the Woodstock movie which was the first time I heard about him.

[@RickyRicardo-jd8ed]

Miss you ,My,Friend.

[@DjangoThunders]

Great man and I love his guitar style.

[@Tomrogersmusic-]

Such a beautiful soul who had a great sound. Long live Richie Havens

[@terryjohinke8065]

saw him opening on film Woodtock in 69. Amazingly good. Loved his style of playing a Guild guitar - alternate tunong and thumb. Sad he's passed, he was a thinking man's musician.

[@lesliethomas2081]

This man is bless I know him this dude since Woodstock just great

[@metaphysicsandhoops6448]

Brooklyn titan. We will continue to listen learn act in your spirit of love compassion and strength

[@WinsomeJohnny]

Amazing interview!

[@Lacombe57]

Thank you sir. RIP.

[@maryellendavis722]

thank you Richie much love

[@RickyRicardo-jd8ed]

Justice like it was yesterday

[@wilmarmarquessouza7768]

Richie havens is life !

[@jayviviano109]

@WilmarMarquesSouza ... Yes Richie is life. Cool photo avatar. Did you know the guy in your photo and Richie met each other. Beautiful little story Richie wrote about it in his book.

[@ryanmcbride5764]

A gift he was... 🖤🌹

[@anthonyvaughan4853]

ALL HIS SONG TELL A STORY/ BIG UP RERSPECT !!!

[@marklangley992]

There was never your equal brother I'll miss you rest in peace.

[@SimoneBamboo]

“Human beings.. as we saw ourselves.” He is Aquarius af, lol. I love him so much 😩😩😌😌

[@dave11061]

I always loved Richie Havens' beautiful, soulful version of Strawberry Fields Forever, which he played at Woodstock.

[@dennisgreenwald1577]

was my all time hero, uwil always be missed. Dennis greenwald percussionist

[@windwardave2010]

Richie's manner of speaking, earnestness, facial expressions, etc remind me of Neil Peart during interviews.

[@ZachKopkaZake]

Incredible post!!!

[@RickyRicardo-jd8ed]

Such a beautiful Man my boy

[@offisk]

RIP my friend.

[@SoNoFTheMoSt]

I love richie's music so much, i prefer his version of most covers hes done:)

[@gebremenfeskidus9567]

Wonderful.

[@spb7883]

Never realized how much of a Brooklyn accent he had (he was from Bed-Stuy, after all).

[@RickyRicardo-jd8ed]

1969 peace ✌️ My Friend ❤️ 🙏 24_7

[@a_solo_yolo]

What’s the song he starts playing at 26:00!? My grandfather has dementia and is dying to know what song this is as it got cut off in this show. He was/is a huge fan, and found God through this mans lyrics and guitar playing. I put this on for him tonight and tears were flowing from his eyes and cheeks as well as mine. Cant believe “Freedom” was made up on the spot, and so perfect for what the country was going through at the time. Never knew it was made on the spot, what a genius he truly was. RIP Richie Havens.

[@thomasadams8676]

'On the Road to Calvary' from his album "Wishing Well". A fav of mine too! Richie was my friend, and he is greatly missed. As you said, "A Friend Forever."

[@RickyRicardo-jd8ed]

Love you, Richi

[@RickyRicardo-jd8ed]

E

[@interstategar]

I was there at Woodstock in '69 and remember when he started the event. the sun was still shining and shining right on him in orange-yellow rays. that was Friday. By Sunday morning, nit having at or drank anything we left and missed all the headliners. I didn't know adjacent to the field was an area of people serving food. It was never announced on the PA. I only learned about it by watching a documentary about Woodstock.

[@David_R922]

I visited Bethel NY, the site of Woodstock, for the first time in August 2021. I love hearing from people who were actually there. You hear mostly good stories about the music, the peace and love. On the other hand, there are stories like yours where people had no food, water, shelter, and no way out except to walk. Not to mention the rain, mud, hygiene. Was it an overall positive experience for you?

[@SoNoFTheMoSt]

Mixed Bag was soo good!

[@pierredestin8079]

Wow just wow

[@terrygannon7254]

Still a great musician & voice

[@RickyRicardo-jd8ed]

My Man

[@tulayamalavenapi4028]

Pursuant to Havens's request he was cremated and his ashes were scattered from the air over the original site of the Woodstock Festival, in a ceremony held on August 18, 2013, the 44th anniversary of the festival's last day. 🙏🏻😓🍂🕊️

[@kimbanyc1]

Saw him for the first time in 1966. At cafe au Go-Go... I think it was before he owned the place ) He played his set...Came back out and did 90 minutes on a sitar...Then the announcement came out the featured act The Animals didn't make it and they brought out The Jimi Hendrix Experience

[@judithhand4987]

Wow! what a fortunate man you are!

[@toddrunt]

love

[@fortunewrangler8524]

Dude is boss!!

[@RickyRicardo-jd8ed]

Peace ✌️ ❤❤Peace ✌️

[@RickyRicardo-jd8ed]

Rock On

[@RickyRicardo-jd8ed]

Ok,Amen

[@RickyRicardo-jd8ed]

Sew Beautiful

[@stetzify6694]

What song does Richie play in the beginning? I like this guy. Saw his Woodstock performances of Freedom and I Can't Make It Anymore on KZbin.

[@popogejo7245]

Just think where Richy would be today on the political spectrum!

[@David_R922]

He seems like a peaceful, moderate guy.

[@RickyRicardo-jd8ed]

🫂

[@missspell8291]

♥️

[@RickyRicardo-jd8ed]

Mt Friend

[@davedillon1372]

One of the sweetest adult men on the same Planet (Earth

[@hivicar]

Louis Gossett Jr just moved on. He co-wrote "Handsome Johnny" with Richie.

[@RickyRicardo-jd8ed]

Kansas we GE TT A AMEN?.

[@carolinaquanonne597]

Instrument talenting tale book ferry can not sing rich he believes praying universally

[@janyneagolia4650]

Ase’

[@xPowerShotx]

What is with that walter park, he's just noise and awkward intrusion to richie havens music?

[@fredanderson3438]

He played with Richie in live concerts for quite a few years. I saw him back up Richie in a couple of concerts and thought that he played very well with Richie. Richie thought so too. RIchie hired him.

[@RickyRicardo-jd8ed]

doo Whopping and.....WWG1WGA dark2light