Act #19 Sunday, August 17, 1969... 3:30 A.M.

Sly and the Family Stone Woodstock Setlist Live

My Take:

Their setlist included iconic songs such as "Dance to the Music," "I Want to Take You Higher," and "Stand!" The performance was characterized by a relentless stream of Ppbeat Music, with Sly Stone encouraging Audience Participation, famously getting the Crowd to chant "Higher!" while displaying peace signs... that was cool! However, the Sound quality was not recognizable to the Studio Cuts due to tech probs they were having... I don't think the Crowd really cared about my Personal view.

Their style, which blended various musical influences, was seen as a bridge between different Cultural Worlds, making them a significant act during a transformative period in American Music history... however, they are down on my Fav list as it just does not resonate with me.

However, the Audience was a Rockin' and Stoned... I saw Janis and Grace Slick dancing up a storm.

The Crowd Noise Factor was 5 to 9 (Higher?).

Rock On ♪♪♪

Sly and the Family Stone Musical Bio

Sly and the Family Stone was an influential American Band originating from San Francisco, California, active from 1966 to 1983. The Band was pivotal in the development of several Music Genres, including Funk, Soul, R&B, Rock, and Psychedelic Music. They were notable for being the first major American Rock group to have a racially integrated, mixed-gender Lineup, which included Sly Stone (born Sylvester Stewart), his Brother Freddie Stone, Sister Rose Stone, Trumpeter Cynthia Robinson, Drummer Greg Errico, Saxophonist Jerry Martini, and Bassist Larry Graham.

Sly Stone, a Musical prodigy adept at multiple instruments, formed the band in 1966. The Group quickly gained attention for their innovative "psychedelic soul" sound, which blended various musical styles. Their breakthrough came with the single "Dance to the Music" in 1968, followed by hits like "Everyday People," "Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin)," and "Family Affair." Their album Stand! (1969) was a major success, and their performance at the Woodstock Festival in 1969 further cemented their reputation.

Sly and the Family Stone's Music was groundbreaking, inspiring a wide range of artists across different genres. They played a crucial role in the evolution of Funk and had a lasting impact on Soul, Pop, and Hip-Hop Music. The Band's innovative sounds and socially conscious lyrics resonated with audiences and influenced artists like Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, and Prince.

Despite their success, the Band faced challenges, including interpersonal conflicts and Sly Stone's struggles with Drug Addiction. These issues led to the Band's decline in the mid-1970s, with several Members leaving and the group eventually dissolving in 1983. Sly Stone continued to perform sporadically, but his public appearances became rare.

Sly and the Family Stone were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993, and their Music continues to be celebrated for its innovation and influence. They remain an iconic symbol of the 1960s and 1970s Music Scene, known for their dynamic Performances and pioneering Sounds.