We'll listen to and discuss a few of the musicians and groups that were the 60's commentators, historians, protesters, innovators and entertainers.
1. Bob dylan: "The Times They Are A'Changin ('62)". Anthem for the 60's. Blues/folk. Rock's first true poet and self-appointed political commentator.
2. The Beatles: "A Hard Day's Night (64)" a true rock number. "Yesteday ('65)," became their anthem. Ed Sullivan brought them to US; began a "British invasion" of music, fashion, movies. They were able to be a huge commercial succes without comprising their constant experimentation. They stayed away from political issues, were popular with all age groups. Introduced elements of Indian Ragas in their music, starred in films, some of the made it ok to have a 'guru.' They bridged the gap between rock music and the lighter pop style of ballads. Each song is carefully arranged to have its own kind of sound, clear vocals, influence of Indian music, specialized instruments.
3.Carlos Santana: "Soul Sacrifice (69)" A master of the electric guitar, he moved from Mexico into the San Francisco hippie movement: fused Latin music, African-Cuban rhythms and basic blues rhythms. Using Latin percussion instruments in his rock band, often singing in Spanish, Santana created a new genre of 'Latin Rock.' Interesting website at www.santana.com Huge success at Woodstock.
5. Simon & Garfunkle: "Bridge Over Troubled Water ('69)". Folk-rock duo. Their songs have beautiful lyrics and well crafted melodies.
6. Jimi Hendrix: "Voodo Child" ('69)became the untimate test of a guitarists skill. An inventive, experimental virtuoso, he transformed the guitar from a background instrument for harmony into a screaming, turbulant voice which he sometimes played with his teeth.
