Act #3 Bert Sommer Friday, August 15, 1969... 8:20 p.m.

Bert Sommer Woodstock Setlist Live

My Take:

His clear, punchy Tenor Voice and commanding Stage Presence (white hair helped) kept the crowd's attention... earning him the Festival's first Standing Ovation for his rendition of Simon and Garfunkel's "America". He opened his set with "Jennifer," a beautiful Ballad he had written about his former Girlfriend and Hair Castmate, Jennifer Warnes.

Throughout his performance, he showcased many Songs from his debut Album, The Road to Travel, demonstrating his Songwriting prowess and Musical versatility. Despite the Technical challenges of performing without Vocal Monitors, his haunting yet beautiful Vocals left a lasting impression on those who witnessed it.

I would describe his Voice as "Gripping" and "Haunting, but beautiful". His Vocal Range and Control allowed him to deliver Powerful, emotive Songs that resonated with Me and the Audience. The voice reminds me of Tim Buckley.

The Crowd Noise Factor was a 3, but the tempered Applause for "America" was a 4.

Not my Cup O' Scotch (Voice) but he can use his Fingers fine!

Bert Sommer Music Bio

Bert Sommer (February 7, 1949 - July 23, 1990 R.I.P.) was a talented but often overlooked American Singer-Songwriter and Actor. Born on Long Island, New York, Sommer began his Musical Career writing Songs for Local Bands before briefly joining The Left Banke in 1967.

He gained recognition for his role in the original Broadway production of "Hair"... releasing his debut Album The Road to Travel in 1968. Probably, Sommer's most notable Performance came when he received the Festival's first Standing Ovation for his rendition of "America" by Simon and Garfunkle.

Despite this early success, his career never reached the heights it promised. He released 4 studio albums between 1968 and 1977, had a minor hit with "We're All Playing in the Same Band", and appeared on the children's TV show "The Krofft Supershow". Sommer continued to perform with local bands in Albany, New York, until his untimely death at age 41 due to respiratory illness. Although largely forgotten in mainstream Music History, he is remembered by Fans for his mesmerizing Voice, Songwriting talent, and the poignant Performances he left behind.