Janis Joplin has already been dually recognized in
Chicago as a 1995 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and in 2005 with a Grammy
Lifetime Achievement Award. But now, America’s hardest rock and roll chick will
be honored in Hollywood with a Star on the Walk of Fame.
Joplin first sprung into the limelight while fronting the psychedelic-acid
rock band Big Brother and the Holding Company, but later progressed to a more
bluesy-soulful solo career. Besides Jefferson Airplane's Grace Slick, Janis Joplin is perhaps the
only female rocker whose voice was so domineering and lively, it could suffice
for an entire album alone with no backing instruments needed.
I’m surprised it took so long for Hollywood to honor my
favorite San Fran hippie. She died in 1970 at the young age of 27 (welcome to
the 27 club!), and is only now being recognized. What a shame.
The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce meets every year to select
about 20 honorees from hundreds of nominations. Other nominees this year
include Jane’s Addiction, the late Luther Vandross, Jennifer Hudson, Ellen
DeGeneres, Backstreet Boys and New Kids on the Bloc. Considering the latter
two, it clearly isn’t too difficult to be awarded a Star.
Actual dates of the 2013 ceremonies have not been announced,
but stay tuned for more information, and check out the videos below to hear some of my
favorite Janis Joplin originals. A voice like hers should never be forgotten.
"Piece of My Heart," the epitome of girl-power
"Combination of the Two"
"Mercedes Benz"
"Me and Bobby McGee"
"Cry Baby"
And on an entirely different note, I saw the Dave Matthews Band this past Friday at Hershey Park. The stadium had amazing acoustics. I highly recommend the venue, even if it is a
far drive. We got pretty close up, so I wanted to share some (albeit low-quality) pictures with you!
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| Dave and bassist Stefan Lessard |
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| Violinist Boyd Tinsley |
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| Electric guitarist Tim Reynolds |
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| Hershey Stadium. You can see a lighted-roller coaster in the background |
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