Folk singer Richie Havens, probably best known for being the opener at Woodstock and the video of his great performance in the Woodstock movie, passed away on Monday at age 72. You can read his obit HERE. I bartended at a small restaurant/bar called "The Hearth"
outside of Doylestown PA in the early 90's. Our owner was a big music fan and
even though the place was small, he would book some really good acts to play this
small intimate bar. Richie played there and I didn't make much on tips that
night because barely anyone came to the bar during his performance as everyone
was enraptured. I wasn't complaining as you don't get to see someone with that
much charisma and talent in such a small venue. After the show, he hung out
"backstage" i.e. the kitchen for a bit and talked with some of us on
the staff. I'll echo Bruce's comments in that he was indeed kind, gracious and
outgoing. I recall that the owner's girlfriend had made Richie some
chocolate-covered strawberries and he seemed genuinely pleased to get them, beaming that fantastic smile of his. We've truly lost a
great talent and a beautiful soul. Godspeed Richie!
Tonight, check out the band The National on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon on NBC at 12:35 AM. The National's new album "Trouble Will Find Me" will be out on May 21. They will also be playing here in Richmond at the club, The National, on June 8.
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