Act #22 Joe Cocker and the Grease Band Sunday, August 17, 1969... 3:30 P.M.

Joe Cocker Woodstock Setlist Live

My Take:

Joe got a hyped-up Rousing welcome by the Crowd who had chilled the time after Jefferson Airplane's Gig at 7 A.M. His "Let's Get Stoned" is in my Top 10.

His performance at Woodstock in 1969 is widely regarded as one of the most memorable moments of the festival, particularly highlighted by his rendition of the Beatles "With a Little Help From My Friends." It was a transformative experience. His cover of the Beatles' song is often noted as being superior to the original, showcasing his unique Interpretation and stage presence.

Cocker's voice gets high praise noting its power and emotional depth. His ability to convey raw emotion made it a defining moment in his Career and a highlight of the Festival. The audience's reaction to Cocker was overwhelmingly positive, as he captivated the crowd with his passionate delivery. I felt the communal atmosphere of Woodstock and how Cocker's performance resonated deeply with the audience.

Willie Note: I had seen Joe on Chicago's Rush Street in 68 and it was extremely sad for me to not have seen him open Sunday afternoon as he deserves much credit for making the Show extra special... many had left during the long break due to the heavy rain coming as it was beyond their staying power... too bad, as they missed one of, if not, the Best in Show Award. Rock On ♪♪♪... Joe

The Crowd Noise Factor was from a 4 to 8... and just as he was finishing the Sky was so dark, they turned the lights on... and all Hell broke loose causing a Sea-of-Mud! What fun!

Joe Cocker Musical Bio

Joe Cocker, born John Robert Cocker on May 20, 1944, in Sheffield, England, was a renowned British blues-rock singer celebrated for his distinctive raspy voice and passionate performances. His music career spanned over five decades, during which he recorded nearly 40 albums and became one of the most iconic vocalists of his generation.

Cocker began his musical journey in the early 1960s, performing in local pubs and forming various bands. He gained significant attention in 1968 with his cover of The Beatles' "With a Little Help from My Friends," which topped the UK singles chart. His performance at the Woodstock festival in 1969 further propelled him to international fame, showcasing his intense vocal style and unique stage presence.

Throughout his career, Cocker released several successful albums, including Mad Dogs & Englishmen (1970), which featured a live album and concert film. He achieved notable hits such as "You Are So Beautiful" and "Up Where We Belong," the latter being a duet with Jennifer Warnes that topped the Billboard Hot 100 and won an Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1983.Cocker's music often included covers of popular songs, and he was known for his soulful interpretations, which resonated with audiences worldwide. His performances were characterized by his expressive body movements, which he described as a way to convey his feelings for the music.

Cocker struggled with substance abuse throughout his career but made a strong comeback in the 1980s. He was honored with an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2007 for his contributions to music. He passed away from lung cancer on December 22, 2014, at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential singers in rock and blues history