I just found out, amongst many others, watching CBS Sunday Morning, that there was another important concert, besides Woodstock, held in 1969. It is a film about a concert series, the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, (aka, “Black Woodstock”). I also found articles in People Magazine, dated 7/12/21, and USA Today Newspaper, dated 7/2/21.
We are only, or should I say that I am now aware of this because of Ahmir Thompson, better known as “Questlove,” drummer for The Roots. He directed this documentary, (his first), called “Summer of Soul”; and subtitled (…or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised). It is a lot more than just the fabulous concert footage, he delves into its importance during the social and political period of the late 60’s.
Some of the performers were , The Fifth Dimension, Sly and the Family Stone, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Mahalia Jackson, Nina Simone, and a teenage Stevie Wonder. I am familiar with all of these musicians and owned records by Sly and the Family Stone, and Stevie Wonder, (much later). Songs by Gladys Knight and the Pips and the previous two are loaded on my iPod. I remember watching The Fifth Dimension on TV and listening to “The Age of Aquarius.” I thought they were so cool, I even remember the women’s outfits, mini dresses. Mind you I was 11 to 13 years old at the time.
Anyway, I’m grateful this concert came to light and I have to wonder how many other important milestones in not only music, but mainstream history, has been left out. I’m actually aware of a lot, but that would be better examined in my blog section, Random Thoughts on Politics.