Monterey Pop

Monterey Pop is a 1968 documentary film featuring footage from the Monterey Pop Festival of 1967. The film is directed by D.A. Pennebaker and produced by John Phillips of The Mamas and the Papas fame. It showcases performances by some of the most influential musicians of the time, including Otis Redding, Jimi Hendrix, and Ravi Shankar.

The film opens with shots of the crowd gathering for the festival, set against a backdrop of the scenic Monterey Bay. As the audience members file in, the film provides brief glimpses of some of the other artists who would be performing, including The Who, Simon and Garfunkel, and The Byrds.

The first full performance featured in the film is by The Mamas and the Papas, who play a rousing rendition of "California Dreamin'" that perfectly captures the zeitgeist of the time. Following their set, the film moves to a performance by Scott McKenzie, who sings the iconic song "San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)." This song became a defining anthem for the counterculture movement and remains deeply associated with the era.

The film then moves on to some of the other highlights of the festival. Ravi Shankar's performance of "Raga Bhimpalasi" is a standout moment, showcasing the virtuosic Indian sitarist's incredible talent and musical mastery. The audience is transfixed by the hypnotic rhythms and melodies, and it's clear that this is a truly special moment.

Next up is Otis Redding, who electrifies the crowd with his soulful, powerful voice. He performs a number of his hits, including "I've Been Loving You Too Long" and "Respect," and the energy in the audience is palpable. It's clear that Redding is a true master of his craft, and the footage captures his charisma and magnetism perfectly.

The fourth act featured in the film is The Who, who deliver a frenetic, high-energy performance that leaves the audience breathless. They play hits like "My Generation" and "Substitute" with a ferocity that is unmatched by any of the other performers. It's clear that this band is on the verge of something big, and they would soon become one of the most iconic groups in rock history.

Finally, the film showcases the performance that everyone is waiting for: Jimi Hendrix. The guitar god delivers a mind-bending set that includes hits like "Hey Joe" and "Purple Haze," but it's his rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner" that truly leaves an impression. Hendrix's searing, distorted take on the national anthem is a powerful commentary on the state of the country at the time, and it remains one of the most iconic musical moments in history.

Throughout the film, we see shots of the audience members, who are young, vibrant, and full of energy. They dance, sway, and sing along to the music, embracing the free-spirited, countercultural ethos of the time. The footage is a testament to the transformative power of music, and it's clear that this festival was a defining moment in the history of popular music.

Overall, Monterey Pop is a vital piece of cultural history, showcasing some of the most important and influential musicians of the time. The film captures the essence of the counterculture movement and provides a window into a time when anything seemed possible. It's a must-see for music fans and anyone interested in the history of the 1960s.