Janis, didn't require light shows with sets and special effects, choreographed backup dancers, multiple designer costume changes in order to captivate her audience. She embodied her music which mesmerized the audience. That voice was so electrifying. She also shattered the glass ceiling for future women rockers. No one will ever compare to her. Janis, is the undisputed Queen of Rock.
Goodie for her (first sentence)........... Someone on the comment board said she should have used auto-tune. First time I ever heard someone mention that without complaining about it.
I don’t necessarily agree that there was a glass ceiling for female rock singers. Most of them just aren’t that good. You need to have lived hard times or experienced hardship to sing certain types of music well. Janis was one of the few where you could hear the angst and sadness in her voice. She sounded very real.
What an awesome event in your life. I'm so jealous. She truly seemed like the coolest chick that would have been awesome to hang out with. Sweet spirited lady.
I remember being nine years old and my teenage cousins were babysitting me. They were both huge Beatles fans and were listening to their albums over and over again. Well, I got bored and wandered into my parent's room and turned on their radio. The first song that played on the radio was Ball and Chain. Man oh man, I was sold. I had only ever heard Big Mama Thornton's version before - my Dad had been a Jazz drummer and had a big collection of Jazz and Blues albums which I loved to listen to when he was home - but Janis, her voice, the depth of her feelings in the song, yeah, it was more than enough for me to become a fan.
Her rendition of "Ball and Chain" is (to this day for me) a revelation. It sounds new every time I hear it... What more could any singer want to do? :)
Beautifully troubled soul with a voice that penetrated to the most vulnerable place in all of us. You cant listen without feeling pain, but you WANT to listen!
She was practically a saint to my own high-school circle of outcasts and freaks, one of whom was so proud to have a strong resemblance to her that she painted a 6' tall portait of Janis on her bedroom wall. That pain is part of why we loved her so much - she was one of us.
On September 9, 1967 I went to the second opening concert at Family Dog Concert Hall in Denver, CO. The first band was a local group; Eighth Penny Matter...followed by th Heavy Metal precursors; "Blue Cheer," and finally Janis and Big Brother took the stage and completely blew my 18 year old mind....I'll never forget that night, WHEW! Thanks for this tribute to the greatest R&R/Blues female vocalist....Janis Joplin!
Ha! Little known fact: Super Bowl-winning coach Jimmy Johnson was a high school classmate of Janis Joplin. He reports that most people called Janis Joplin "Weed". He was NOT surprised she was extremely emotional, but he was surprised she was such a fast success.
I was so happy when I just saw your story on Janis. I was a little 15 year old hippie when Janis died and I remember people in our high school actually wearing black armbands. I totally loved her. I have three original Fillmore and Avalon posters featuring her, as well as a little note she wrote framed that I've had for years. 25 years ago I was lucky enough to meet all the guys from Big Brother and spend 6 hours with them between their sets at a little table with a mutual friend that I had gone to the show with. (My mutual friend years before had actually picked Big Brother and Janis up at the airport when they came to Detroit. I remember asking her "do you remember the first thing Janis said to you? She thought a second and said ..."yes, she said "have you got a cigarette?") Anyway, It was sad the night we saw them because not a lot of people showed up, but I had the guys from Big Brother all to myself and I was starstruck. They were all real gentlemen. I actually felt bad for the girl singer they had that night, she was a great vocalist but of course everyone was comparing her to you know who, and between sets she quickly disappeared and didn't come out again until their next set. Peter Albin was sitting right next to me and I told him "your girl singer is really wonderful." And his response was "yeah, she's great, Janis had that SCRATCHY voice." I almost plotzed! lol. Sam Andrew actually corresponded with me after that night, and I have a beautiful photo of all of them signed by each one. What great guys they all were. Another one of my lifelong best friends knew all the guys and Janis back in the day and has several wonderful stories which are probably too long to tell here plus a little raunchy to be honest with you lol. He was also roommates with Robert Crumb at one time, who of course designed that famous cover for "Cheap Thrills", and Crumb actually immortalized my buddy as one of "The Lighter Than Air Boys" in one of his comic strips. Also, Crumbs son actually helped my buddy build the steps on my house 20 some years ago. I'm lucky enough to have a ZAP Comic that Crumb inscribed to me. Anyway, sorry I yakked so long, as always........ great job!
I remember a loooong time ago I saw this "Behind the Music," on Janis Joplin. They had audio of her singing as a teenager at her church. She had this beautiful polyphonic voice and I've never heard anything like it.
@@marktait2371 Yeah - I really hate to say it, but I think she damaged her voice (lifestyle? smoking?) and while she was still great, that clarity, purity and beauty of her voice was just gone.
As a new teen living with a single mom and poor, getting to purchase a couple of LP's for Christmas was a real treat. I didn't know a lot of artist, but I knew was was "cool" at the time. My first LP was 'The Doors". My second was 'Cheap Thrills'. I had no idea at the time what treasures I had purchased. I still have both in one formant or another, and I still know all the words.
I was in my teens when this album was released. My main job around the house was mowing the lawn. I had finished the main job and was trimming the edges with a set if shears and listening to my 8 transistor radio I had bought a few years before with my paper route money. Piece of my heart came on the radio and I put down the shears and was amazed by it. My next purchase with my paper route money was this one. I still own it.
Just watched your Janice Joplin episode and I Agree she was one of the greatest. It makes me think an episode that happened at work once, when I went up to the lunch room some of the younger people were talking about this great singer they had just found, it was Janice and when I said she was one of the greatest they looked at me as if I was strange and I said don’t forget she was my era (will be 72 this year). ❤We had the best music.
I'm 72 also. You can still catch me singing Mercedes Benz . I just loved that song. And of course Bobby McGee too. And Judy Collins Someday Soon. We had the best music.
She was literally a force of nature -- very happy, Adam, that you're giving her the honor she (still) deserves. Seeing her perform on the Ed Sullivan show when I was maybe 10 was earth-shaking and life changing -- she brought the power and it's still there after more than 50 years. For anyone interested, the best documentary I've seen of her life is called 'Little Girl Blue,' watchable on YT.
Her “Ball And Chain” live absolutely took me to another place. I can’t think about what she would have done and how much we lost with her passing. It is too much to bear.
Wow, fantastic show today. I really, really enjoyed it. In December of 1969 I took Janice Joplin's biggest fan, which was my sister to Madison square Garden, to see her live a few months before for her death. I remember walking out of the garden at the end of that show and my little sister, looking at me as I did her and we had stars in our eyes and couldn't believe the music that came out of that woman's mouth live because we did love her albums but boy seeing her on stage was. An entirely different experienceinstant sitting down and listening to her on an LP album. I lived in renox village at that time and I had recently seen Jimi Hendrix at the Fillmore's. Looking back man was a lucky person. To be the right age at the right time.
@@Prehab224 Well, that is so cool that you were there that night. Obviously years have by and now we "meet". I saw Janice at the garden and I saw Hendrix at the Fillmore East and I saw Jim Morrison in Miami at Pirates World. How lucky were we to be at that age at that time in Rock history!
While others in Junior High were into the Cars in the early 80's I was into Janis identifying with her struggles with the bullying of schoolmates. Didn't go a day without being beaten, and never learned a thing being threatened every moment of my school day and ballet class believe it or not. Peers do this because you are vulnerable. My parents despised my playing Janis saying she "sounded like someone was killing chickens." So, I gave her up after having purchased every album but Buried Alive in The Blues where, only until a few years ago did I hear my favorite song of all "Little Girl Blue," She brilliantly performed it, and clearly was not on drugs or alcohol at all while doing it. She died after being clean for about a year. What she wanted most of all was to be married with children. While recording her last and best album "Pearl" after a long day of recording she called her fiance and found he wasn't there. Nobody knew where he was? He wasn't there, and never would be. So, she called her dealer for one hit of heroin - just to help her sleep. Unknown to her, and 8 others that night, the dealer sold her uncut heroin. 50% when it should have been cut down to 3%, No one would ever believe a dealer would fail to cut it being that they can make so much money on it? But they did. It was intentional. Eight other people died that night from the uncut heroin around the Bay area. None wanted or tried to commit suicide or overdose. The heroin hit her brain bursting blood vessels. She was found by her bed on the floor in the stylish short nighty of the times. She was clearly planning on going to sleep by every piece of evidence found that night. All she intended to do was numb a broken heart. Hoping as always, to find love again.
Abused child PTSD is a mental illness. The cure is giving up the anger. Very difficult. Almost all performers have it. It makes them want to be on stage. Narcissism.
I’m sorry that happened to you. Thank you for sharing your story. I worked in mental health. I’ve seen what bullying does to people. I’ve also seen what sharing stories can do for people. It’s important to share those stories for the person sharing it and for others to hear it. Have a blessed day.✌🏼
@@msimon6808 The only people that have PTSD were in a war or shot at a lot.. So every person that wants to lay music on a stage is a narcissist? Where do you get this shit from? You sound very young and ridiculous
Great story about a legend in the Music Industry. I had the pleasure of seeing a concert she sang at in the fall of 1969 in Tempe, Arizona. I was attending Arizona State University on music scholarship at the time, and was invited to see Janice Perform as a last minute thing. I was blown away at what I had witnessed. I was privileged to have seen Hendrix, Morrison, and Joplin all that year.
I was saddened in January 2024 to learn of the passing of Melanie. I was thankful to have seen her perform live in 1999 during the 30th anniversary of the original Woodstock festival. If only I had the pleasure of seeing Janis live too.
cool.you got to see her in person.old clips recently on news was great singer guitarist in a batch of 45s neighbor moving i got original brand nee key neighborhood records news mentioned was ahead if her time going indie label she tried to get going back then not many artists did that has ciol artwork on the label also was a diy music artist years before others i think.is dated 1973
Melanie Safka should be one of the next PoR videos - absolutely one of the most beautiful people inside and out. Lay Down is STILL one of the most inspiring songs ever made.
I worked as a singing waiter at a restaurant in Santa Monica, California. Lots of celebrities used to come in. One night Melanie was there and someone asked her to sing a song. She asked for a guitar and I loaned her mine. I was thrilled.
Thank you Professor for featuring Janis. So many songs could be iconic - well, are. Cry Baby, Summertime, Kozmic Blues and Ball and Chain. Just to start things off. There is only one Janis and there will never be another one. We are fortunate to have recordings and tv videos of her to witness the power of this incredible lady. Listening to her I feel sad that she left us so early. I wished she could have lived until the 80s. She would have had a blast working with Stevie Ray Vaughn, George Thoroughgood, the Fabulous Thunderbirds. But, mostly Stevie. Both were born for the blues.
First time I heard this song was August 27, 1968 at Oakland Army Base waiting for deployment to Vietnam. I was blown away. I became an instant fan.Also heard Magic Carpet Ride by Steppenwolf for the first time.
I wasn't born until 1975, so I wasn't yet around to hear Janis and other greats like her first hand, but I have always loved her music. My absolute favorite of hers is "Me and Bobby McGee" (not sure why, but that one has always stuck with me), which I would love to see you discuss in a future video. However, even though it's not my favorite, I can't deny how amazing her rendition of "Piece of My Heart" is. Such a powerful song!
It was in the 1970-71 school year at a Joplin Missouri high school. I was a Freshman while my older brother was Senior that Janis Joplin was the theme of a dance. It had the classic light show of the time with strobe lights and overhead projectors and pyrex glass pie plates with oils shown over the band while Janis Joplin songs rocked the gymnasium. I was enlisted to help with the light show against a banner with Janis Joplin my brother painted on it.That was the wildest dance in all the four years I attented Parkwood High School.
Janis paved the way for every female rock artist who came after her. One of my favourite memories of her was an interview she did with Dick Cavett on his show. She was explaining about her former schoolmates and the bullying she endured... her high school's 10th reunion was coming up and she was going home (with a smile on her face and twinkle in her eye) she made it clear it was with FU attitude. She was incredible, Me and Bobby McGee is still one of my most favourite songs. I hope she is still rock'n and singing her heart out as only she can do.
1968, I was 19 and on a motorcycle trip from Canada to Florida. In Gainsville, Fla. Janis was appearing at the fargrounds. Somehow I and my friend Jonathan were able to just walk into the arena here Janis and the band were rehearsing for their show that night. We didn't get to see that night's show, but did get to hear bits and pieces of several songs that afternoon.
yeh recall a kk interview about their relationship and the song last summer i bought a bunch of 45s from a neighbor moving one is the song of all people jerry lee lewis like 74 or 5
Adam, if I may. As much as Peace Of My Heart is a song that defined Janis career, the one song that had me stunned was "I Need A Man To Love", on Bi g Brother's Cheap Thrills album. Listen to that song with good set of headphones and concentrate on her singing. You can feel her breathing and the emotions she put into that performance. Absolutely amazing! Janis was unique. Her voice was beyond incredible. There may never will be another talent like her.
I couldn't believe my ears when I first heard "Piece of My Heart" on the radio in 1968. There's never been another singer like Janis and there never will be. She was a category unto herself.
Man my sister loved Janis Joplin and she used to play her records so loud we could hear it from down the street LOL. I didn't mind because she bought so many albums back in the early 70's that we had all of the best music. Janis was the Queen for sure. She could really belt it out and this song is proof of that. Lost too soon like so many at her age. Cheers from Ottawa, Canada🍁
If you haven't seen Janis's live performance of Ball and Chain at the Monterey Pop Festival do yourself a favor and watch it, wow. Like the professor said the music sang her on this one too. The power of take another piece of my heart can't be overstated either. She belts it out like with so much emotion i get chills. Fantastic episode professor! Rest In Peace Pearl❤
I looked it up & oh my Lord she is AMAZING! I got chills listening to her, loved how she stamped her foot as she sang. Thanks for the recommendation. 👍
Janis Joplin is the Queen of Rock!! This is a fantastic episode and a huge relief to hear correct information on Janis. Piece of my Heart is the first recording I’d heard of Janis when I was 12 years old in 1976. My life changed forever.
Janis's version of "Summertime" is, in my humble opinion, the best version ever. Whenever I hear it, I can't help but stop whatever I'm doing, close my eyes, and just let it envelope me.
I absolutely adore her. I’m 53 and I look just like her. All my life there have been people popping up to tell me so, and it’s been a fun source of pride. ❤ oh, and she died four days after I was born.
I could definitely vouch that Janis is the greatest Rock vocalist in the Rock era, on many levels. There's been lots who have tried to come close, but no Pearl.❤
I am 66 years old and I was fortunate enough to have grown up in the absolutely greatest decade when it comes to rock music where as the bar was set for all to follow, the 70's. I often wonder what it would be like if the 27's had lived. Just "IMAGINE" the wonderment the world would have to enjoy. Alas as the old adage says, there is a high price to pay for fame and glory.
Janis always seemed to be having SUCH FUN in her own inimitable way!! ☮️ Can't think of any other performer who ENJOYED dancing with her fans on stage like she did!! Wouldn't we all like to have known her!! That phrase, "I'm gonna show you that a woman can be tough" has always resonated and echoed in my heart and head." ❤ MORE J.J. videos, please!! 👍
My retired former boss told me one of his many great stories of his life... one night he found himself in a Downtown Los Angeles neighborhood and he was hearing this loud sound coming from down the way, he couldn't resist it and he found himself in a club of which Big Brother and the Holding Company was on stage ripping. He said to this day it was the loudest thing he'd ever heard. In fact, he said that it was so loud the ground was shaking 🤯
@@ProfessorofRock A friend of mine was in the crowd at the Winnipeg Performance of the Festival Express in 1970. If you bring that concert up, strap in because he will tell you what an amazing show it was and 50+ years later, he still thinks Janis was the showpiece of the whole tour. She tore it up!
Her raspy voice gives me chills to this day. She was really an amazing person. On a side note, you need to hear Ben Otwell of the band Gomez. He has a voice similar to Janis Joplin.
Port Arthur, Texas here. Thank you, Professor, for the great background explanation of Janis' early life. For some reason, no one ever talks about Dorothy and Seth and their unfulfilled dreams. I saw Janis when she came back for her high school reunion at Thomas Jefferson High School in 1970. It was not a happy scene for her. She wanted to come back at the height of her fame and see how those people in her class who bullied her felt about her rise to stardom. Unfortunately, those same people still didn't give her the time of day. She was crushed. She died two months later. I pass her old house every day, where she was finally recognized by the state of Texas with a historical marker in 2007. She also has a corner dedicated to her life in the Museum of the Gulf Coast in Port Arthur, where a replica of her famous 1964 Porsche 364 C Cabriolet sits. (The original car was auctioned at Sotheby's in 2015 for $1.75M) It's pretty cool. And yes, she was definitely the greatest female rock singer ever, IMHO.
Thanks for this video on the Queen of Rock. Janis died the year before I was born, but I remember gazing at the cover and listening to Pearl from ‘71 that my parents had in their record collection. And I wondered: Who was this boho bluesy woman who dared to be different? Her lyrics and voice were a piercing cry, esp. to girls in the ‘70s, such that she made me feel a bit sad and unsettled if that makes any sense. She still does, even to me today at 50+.☮️
Yes. HELL YEAH she’s the queen of rock. There are very few people with voices that can’t duplicated… even Elvis has singers that could do a decent job of sounding like him, but Janis… No! I spent 8 hours one night listening to Janis Joplin covers on RUclips. There were some good covers, but no one, not a single one had the voice, the inflection or the SOUL of Janis Joplin. It goes without saying, she is my favorite female singer. Thanks for this video of Professor Rock.
I can't say enough about how much I love and appreciate her voice and one of my favorite songs. I want to visit with her someday in the Rock and Roll Heaven.
Proud to say I remember ,saw Jani such a power house voice Back then it was natural talent that'll never pass our way again RIP lady you are and always will be QUEEN ❤
Indeed she is... The queen of rock, the best ever female performer, the most iconic female rock figure of the 60's and 70's; but much more than that, she is an example and an enduring image of perfection and commitment to her talents and her trade. Lovely woman all-around!
Yes, I do believe Janis is the Queen of Rock. I heard her when I was maybe 9. My teen cousins loved her and played her records when their parents weren't home because Janis voice was so strong and they blasted it. I asked who was singing, and they told me really in awe of her and really raving about how awesome and amazing a singer she was. ❤
Here's another little known fact! The 1979 film "The Rose" starring Bette Midler in her film debut, was originally planned to be a biopic about Janis called "The Pearl". Janis' family refused to let them use her name and likeness, so the movie became about a Janis type rock star from 1968/69, and "The Pearl" was changed to "The Rose"
I am not a fan of a lot of female singers, but Love Janis!! I am 63 and did not find out until I was 61 that my Dad's favorite female singer was Janis, but sadly he had passed by then. What a connection that would have been between us if I had known. Janis' music brings people together!
I am so glad you have finally been able to post this. Without a doubt, Janis Joplin is an icon and Queen of Rock and Roll in so many ways. I was born in the mid-1970s, but grew up hearing Piece of my Heart and my personal favourite Mercedes Benz on the radio and I remember feeling blown away by her vocals. Sadly, she became one of the 27 club, but like many members of that tragic club, she forever lives on in her music. She never had the fortune of ever growing old, but will never ever be forgotten because of the legacy she left us.
Excellent presentation! One of my favorite musicians! I’d love to see you do another episode, covering Janis Joplin, for which no other female artist can compare.
The single most impactful female rock vocalist of all time. Zero doubt of that. I have listened to Janis music more than anybody I know. I still get goosebumps sometimes.
I was in high school when her Pearl album was released. I loved it. The 60s and 70s were incredible for music. So grateful I was a teenager in the late 60s and early 70s. There were many negatives in that time period. But the music was definitely a positive.
There’s an interview she did with Dick Cavett that’s just amazing. She reveals she’s going to her high school reunion. It’s actually a little heartbreaking. She was more intelligent than people think and Cavett seems fascinated by her. You can watch on RUclips and I think there’s a separate video of reporters trying to interview her at the reunion. Equally heartbreaking. I felt like I was seeing something too private to be recorded
I love everything about her. Thanks, Janice. I wish the world would have let you enjoy your life more. It must have sucked growing up in Texas and attitudes of the day.
Thanks a lot. Never recovered totally from my first listening of Janis's version of Summertime a few decades ago, and Me and Bobby McGee still drives me nuts everytime I hear it. Her voice dives so deep under your skin, it's just part of you, the very best part of it.
I definitely reguard Janis as the queen of rock or at very least the first lady of rock. It isnt only that she was the first female superstar of rock it was that Joplin herself mattered just as much as her music that she rejected outdated conventions and paved the way for a new style of looking at a woman's role in society and in music inspired so many others in her wake. She didnt just sing a song she lived it and embodied it! No other performer male or female interpreted music with sincerity like Joplin and never compromised herself. Janis is the jam !! Love her music Ball & Chain, Summertime, Move Over, Catch me daddy is a real rocker!! When I was a dj in the early 90s one of the bars I played at had regulars that always requested her tune one night stand it was very popular. Great episode professor!!
Once again, Wow!! The professor delivers another gem!! A Pearl in fact!!! Janis Joplin's singing gives me chills. So authentic and raw!! The power is not gratuitous like on thoae unfortunate tv shows, with Janis the power is as real and as authentic as a Van Gogh. Thanks for putting a light on Janis Joplin, a true giant of Rock and Roll, however brief.
You just make me remember why I consider myself a Rock and Roll kid since early 1970’s. Janis was the first Rock and Roll singer that hoked me when a friend from my secondary school days, circa 1972 or 1973, introduced me to.
Janis is bar none the greatest female rock voice ever! Even Ann Wilson tried to sound like her in her songs. No one can tell me you can't hear Janis's influence on her vocals! Every female wanted that raspy don't give a damn vocal tone! R.I.P Janis You Are Legendary!
When I reflect on my 14th year, the summer of 1980 stands out vividly in my memory as my personal 'Summer of Love.' It began innocently enough, with me immersing myself in the sounds of rock legends like Supertramp. Little did I know, the course of my life was about to be forever altered. One fateful weekend, my mother ventured off to the cottage, entrusting the care of our home to three teenagers-myself included. With the house to ourselves, the stage was set for adventure. And adventure indeed found us, in the form of three albums that would redefine my musical taste and shape my identity. As the vinyl spun and the speakers reverberated with the soulful melodies of The Jimi Hendrix Experience, the haunting lyrics of The Doors, and the raw emotion of Janis Joplin's greatest hits, something inside me stirred. Surrounded by the energy of youth I underwent a metamorphosis that weekend. In the span of those few days, I shed my former self and embraced the spirit of the counterculture movement. Suddenly, I found myself adorned with tie-dye shirts, sporting peace sign accessories, and viewing the world through kaleidoscope lenses. Literally. It was as if I had discovered a hidden part of myself that had been waiting to be unleashed. That weekend marked the birth of a young hippie soul within me-a spirit that has remained an integral part of my being ever since. Looking back, I'm filled with gratitude for those transformative moments and the timeless music that accompanied them. So here's to the memories that shaped me and the summer that ignited my lifelong journey of love, peace, and rock 'n' roll. Thanks for the memories Professor.
I had the pleasure/experience to see Janis and BB&HC live at The Avalon Ballroom in the 60’s. There was no greater time for music. $2 bucks to get in! Also saw Hendricks, Morrison and all of them! Gianni❤
I was in High school when she left this world. I was a huge fan then, and still am. I wonder what she would have done if she had lived. Thanks for putting this one out.
I remember Cheap Thrills very well. In the winter of 1968 (I was 16 years old) and this album was hot, and all the young people knew about it. It was up there with Jefferson Airplane, Doors, Blood Sweat and Tears (with Al Kooper) , Iron Butterfly and all the top albums of that period. Lots of good music came out in 67-68. But this album mesmerized me. I would put it on the turntable and play it while I lay in bed in the dark. I'd listen to the entire album. I did this a lot. Yes, Janis Joplin had a great voice but for me there was something else that got my attention, and that was the band BB&HC. Those guys had a great, hard rockin, psychedelic, blues sound. I have always been a guitar man and Sam Houston Andrews and James Gurly put out a great sound, maybe the best from that era. Without those guitars I really don't think I would have given Janis much of a listen, she needed that band. The band gave the blues a mean gritty sound that I had never heard anywhere else, and still haven't until this day. They were unique. I don't think they were a band lacking talent or that she outgrew them. Some say Janis was too good for BB&HC but I believe the band was really good and helped make her what she was and she owed a lot to them. Unfortunately they separated as bands often do and Janis went a few more years until she accidentally overdosed. BB&HC were great guys and I always thought that had Janis stayed with them things might have turned out differently. Those guys looked out for her, protected her, she was like a sister to them. Anyway, I think Cheap Thrills was one of the best albums ever. I can listen to the entire album, not a clinker on it. All good stuff. The best work Janis ever did, in my humble opinion.
This is the Third time I've tried to release this video and something always goes wrong....What the HELL?
I’m pretty damn sure I saw this a few weeks back…
It just wasn't the right time yet. Third time's a charm.
is it you or youtube
Well worth the effort!
Just means you're doing a good job. Consider it an Honor. Thats why we love you Mr Adam Reader.
At 62 I still cry every time I hear Janis sing Me and Bobby McGee.
She was a pearl wrapped in diamonds and covered with gold.
And feathers.
@@cathylindeboo.9598
With a spattering of grit.
Lovely. Thank you. 🫶
and nicotine
Janis, didn't require light shows with sets and special effects, choreographed backup dancers, multiple designer costume changes in order to captivate her audience. She embodied her music which mesmerized the audience. That voice was so electrifying. She also shattered the glass ceiling for future women rockers. No one will ever compare to her. Janis, is the undisputed Queen of Rock.
100% Agree.
Goodie for her (first sentence)........... Someone on the comment board said she should have used auto-tune. First time I ever heard someone mention that without complaining about it.
Absolutely the best rocker woman ever. Lots of close seconds, but she was the best.
@@jimbeaux4988 100%
I don’t necessarily agree that there was a glass ceiling for female rock singers. Most of them just aren’t that good. You need to have lived hard times or experienced hardship to sing certain types of music well. Janis was one of the few where you could hear the angst and sadness in her voice. She sounded very real.
I was fortunate to see Big Brother in ‘68. She was Phenomenal. Janis didn’t sing the song, she became the song. ❤️😎
🐵 the Year of the Monkey 1968 🐒
What an awesome event in your life. I'm so jealous. She truly seemed like the coolest chick that would have been awesome to hang out with. Sweet spirited lady.
I saw her in 68 too.I was blown away❤
I remember being nine years old and my teenage cousins were babysitting me. They were both huge Beatles fans and were listening to their albums over and over again. Well, I got bored and wandered into my parent's room and turned on their radio. The first song that played on the radio was Ball and Chain. Man oh man, I was sold. I had only ever heard Big Mama Thornton's version before - my Dad had been a Jazz drummer and had a big collection of Jazz and Blues albums which I loved to listen to when he was home - but Janis, her voice, the depth of her feelings in the song, yeah, it was more than enough for me to become a fan.
Her rendition of "Ball and Chain" is (to this day for me) a revelation. It sounds new every time I hear it... What more could any singer want to do? :)
All I can say is that I was lucky to have grown up in the San Francisco Bay Area in the 60’s . Saw Janice in the the city. She gave her all.
Funny she is the only one I regret never getting to see live. I'm still captivated when I hear her music. The energy was off the chart.
Beautifully troubled soul with a voice that penetrated to the most vulnerable place in all of us. You cant listen without feeling pain, but you WANT to listen!
She was practically a saint to my own high-school circle of outcasts and freaks, one of whom was so proud to have a strong resemblance to her that she painted a 6' tall portait of Janis on her bedroom wall. That pain is part of why we loved her so much - she was one of us.
On September 9, 1967 I went to the second opening concert at Family Dog Concert Hall in Denver, CO. The first band was a local group; Eighth Penny Matter...followed by th Heavy Metal precursors; "Blue Cheer," and finally Janis and Big Brother took the stage and completely blew my 18 year old mind....I'll never forget that night, WHEW!
Thanks for this tribute to the greatest R&R/Blues female vocalist....Janis Joplin!
Ha! Little known fact: Super Bowl-winning coach Jimmy Johnson was a high school classmate of Janis Joplin. He reports that most people called Janis Joplin "Weed". He was NOT surprised she was extremely emotional, but he was surprised she was such a fast success.
That's Right!
Awesome
Cool !
Jimmy Johnson is a hairsprayed toolbox. F him.
Cool addition, Thanks!
I couldn’t enjoy her as a child, but when I got older, I finally was able to appreciate her voice. What a great powerhouse voice. ❤
I was so happy when I just saw your story on Janis. I was a little 15 year old hippie when Janis died and I remember people in our high school actually wearing black armbands. I totally loved her. I have three original Fillmore and Avalon posters featuring her, as well as a little note she wrote framed that I've had for years. 25 years ago I was lucky enough to meet all the guys from Big Brother and spend 6 hours with them between their sets at a little table with a mutual friend that I had gone to the show with. (My mutual friend years before had actually picked Big Brother and Janis up at the airport when they came to Detroit. I remember asking her "do you remember the first thing Janis said to you? She thought a second and said ..."yes, she said "have you got a cigarette?") Anyway, It was sad the night we saw them because not a lot of people showed up, but I had the guys from Big Brother all to myself and I was starstruck. They were all real gentlemen. I actually felt bad for the girl singer they had that night, she was a great vocalist but of course everyone was comparing her to you know who, and between sets she quickly disappeared and didn't come out again until their next set. Peter Albin was sitting right next to me and I told him "your girl singer is really wonderful." And his response was "yeah, she's great, Janis had that SCRATCHY voice."
I almost plotzed! lol. Sam Andrew actually corresponded with me after that night, and I have a beautiful photo of all of them signed by each one. What great guys they all were. Another one of my lifelong best friends knew all the guys and Janis back in the day and has several wonderful stories which are probably too long to tell here plus a little raunchy to be honest with you lol. He was also roommates with Robert Crumb at one time, who of course designed that famous cover for "Cheap Thrills", and Crumb actually immortalized my buddy as one of "The Lighter Than Air Boys" in one of his comic strips. Also, Crumbs son actually helped my buddy build the steps on my house 20 some years ago. I'm lucky enough to have a ZAP Comic that Crumb inscribed to me. Anyway, sorry I yakked so long, as always........ great job!
Yak away! I love reading comments like this. Thanx for sharing. 😀
@@LaManteca76 😁👍❤️
Awesome memories, thanks for sharing! ✌️❤️🎶
@@cookingartguy2170feel free to yak anytime! Some great stories in one paragraph and I’ve now learned the word plotzed 😂
Irma Franklin’s version of Piece of My Heart is great. Janis Joplin’s version is a revelation though, as is anything she sung. Taken way too early.
No one can sing like her, she is 100% one in a trillion.
I remember a loooong time ago I saw this "Behind the Music," on Janis Joplin. They had audio of her singing as a teenager at her church. She had this beautiful polyphonic voice and I've never heard anything like it.
i think.i saw the same doc years ago and clips of her singing bessie smith in clubs totally different than her later years as a rock singer
@@marktait2371 Yeah - I really hate to say it, but I think she damaged her voice (lifestyle? smoking?) and while she was still great, that clarity, purity and beauty of her voice was just gone.
She could sing in multiple octaves at one time. I saw that
@@Zzus321 I would love to hear that. Is it online anywhere?
Her Monterey Pop performance was her real breakthrough and I was there, Professor! ❤
As a new teen living with a single mom and poor, getting to purchase a couple of LP's for Christmas was a real treat. I didn't know a lot of artist, but I knew was was "cool" at the time. My first LP was 'The Doors". My second was 'Cheap Thrills'. I had no idea at the time what treasures I had purchased. I still have both in one formant or another, and I still know all the words.
I was in my teens when this album was released. My main job around the house was mowing the lawn. I had finished the main job and was trimming the edges with a set if shears and listening to my 8 transistor radio I had bought a few years before with my paper route money. Piece of my heart came on the radio and I put down the shears and was amazed by it. My next purchase with my paper route money was this one. I still own it.
Just watched your Janice Joplin episode and I Agree she was one of the greatest. It makes me think an episode that happened at work once, when I went up to the lunch room some of the younger people were talking about this great singer they had just found, it was Janice and when I said she was one of the greatest they looked at me as if I was strange and I said don’t forget she was my era (will be 72 this year). ❤We had the best music.
I'm 72 also. You can still catch me singing Mercedes Benz . I just loved that song. And of course Bobby McGee too. And Judy Collins Someday Soon. We had the best music.
She was literally a force of nature -- very happy, Adam, that you're giving her the honor she (still) deserves. Seeing her perform on the Ed Sullivan show when I was maybe 10 was earth-shaking and life changing -- she brought the power and it's still there after more than 50 years. For anyone interested, the best documentary I've seen of her life is called 'Little Girl Blue,' watchable on YT.
Her “Ball And Chain” live absolutely took me to another place. I can’t think about what she would have done and how much we lost with her passing. It is too much to bear.
Wow, fantastic show today. I really, really enjoyed it. In December of 1969 I took Janice Joplin's biggest fan, which was my sister to Madison square Garden, to see her live a few months before for her death. I remember walking out of the garden at the end of that show and my little sister, looking at me as I did her and we had stars in our eyes and couldn't believe the music that came out of that woman's mouth live because we did love her albums but boy seeing her on stage was. An entirely different experienceinstant sitting down and listening to her on an LP album. I lived in renox village at that time and I had recently seen Jimi Hendrix at the Fillmore's. Looking back man was a lucky person. To be the right age at the right time.
I was there. I climbed up on stage with her. I’m only sorry it was before cellphone cameras.
@@Prehab224
Well, that is so cool that you were there that night. Obviously years have by and now we "meet".
I saw Janice at the garden and I saw Hendrix at the Fillmore East and I saw Jim Morrison in Miami at Pirates World. How lucky were we to be at that age at that time in Rock history!
While others in Junior High were into the Cars in the early 80's I was into Janis identifying with her struggles with the bullying of schoolmates. Didn't go a day without being beaten, and never learned a thing being threatened every moment of my school day and ballet class believe it or not. Peers do this because you are vulnerable. My parents despised my playing Janis saying she "sounded like someone was killing chickens." So, I gave her up after having purchased every album but Buried Alive in The Blues where, only until a few years ago did I hear my favorite song of all "Little Girl Blue," She brilliantly performed it, and clearly was not on drugs or alcohol at all while doing it. She died after being clean for about a year. What she wanted most of all was to be married with children. While recording her last and best album "Pearl" after a long day of recording she called her fiance and found he wasn't there. Nobody knew where he was? He wasn't there, and never would be. So, she called her dealer for one hit of heroin - just to help her sleep. Unknown to her, and 8 others that night, the dealer sold her uncut heroin. 50% when it should have been cut down to 3%, No one would ever believe a dealer would fail to cut it being that they can make so much money on it? But they did. It was intentional. Eight other people died that night from the uncut heroin around the Bay area. None wanted or tried to commit suicide or overdose. The heroin hit her brain bursting blood vessels. She was found by her bed on the floor in the stylish short nighty of the times. She was clearly planning on going to sleep by every piece of evidence found that night. All she intended to do was numb a broken heart. Hoping as always, to find love again.
I’m sorry that happened to you; that’s awful. I’m glad you had Janis Joplin for solace though you had to give her up for a while.
@@littlecatfeet9064 Thank you and Bless you!
Abused child PTSD is a mental illness. The cure is giving up the anger. Very difficult. Almost all performers have it. It makes them want to be on stage. Narcissism.
I’m sorry that happened to you. Thank you for sharing your story. I worked in mental health. I’ve seen what bullying does to people. I’ve also seen what sharing stories can do for people. It’s important to share those stories for the person sharing it and for others to hear it. Have a blessed day.✌🏼
@@msimon6808 The only people that have PTSD were in a war or shot at a lot.. So every person that wants to lay music on a stage is a narcissist? Where do you get this shit from? You sound very young and ridiculous
Thanks. She deserves being remembered. ✌
Great story about a legend in the Music Industry. I had the pleasure of seeing a concert she sang at in the fall of 1969 in Tempe, Arizona. I was attending Arizona State University on music scholarship at the time, and was invited to see Janice Perform as a last minute thing. I was blown away at what I had witnessed. I was privileged to have seen Hendrix, Morrison, and Joplin all that year.
I was saddened in January 2024 to learn of the passing of Melanie. I was thankful to have seen her perform live in 1999 during the 30th anniversary of the original Woodstock festival. If only I had the pleasure of seeing Janis live too.
cool.you got to see her in person.old clips recently on news was great singer guitarist in a batch of 45s neighbor moving i got original brand nee key neighborhood records news mentioned was ahead if her time going indie label she tried to get going back then not many artists did that has ciol artwork on the label also was a diy music artist years before others i think.is dated 1973
She got a Brand New Key
I liked her song, "Beautiful People", when it was all over the radio in 1970.
Melanie Safka should be one of the next PoR videos - absolutely one of the most beautiful people inside and out. Lay Down is STILL one of the most inspiring songs ever made.
I worked as a singing waiter at a restaurant in Santa Monica, California. Lots of celebrities used to come in. One night Melanie was there and someone asked her to sing a song. She asked for a guitar and I loaned her mine. I was thrilled.
Thank you Professor for featuring Janis.
So many songs could be iconic - well, are.
Cry Baby, Summertime, Kozmic Blues and Ball and Chain. Just to start things off.
There is only one Janis and there will never be another one. We are fortunate to have recordings and tv videos of her to witness the power of this incredible lady.
Listening to her I feel sad that she left us so early. I wished she could have lived until the 80s. She would have had a blast working with Stevie Ray Vaughn, George Thoroughgood, the Fabulous Thunderbirds. But, mostly Stevie. Both were born for the blues.
Tbh, I was initially thinking this video would be about Ball & Chain. But it was an excellent episode from the Prof nevertheless.
If there will never be another Janis, then can you tell us who is there another of?
Would have loved to hear Janis and SRV together. We lost them both way too soon.
First time I heard this song was August 27, 1968 at Oakland Army Base waiting for deployment to Vietnam. I was blown away. I became an instant fan.Also heard Magic Carpet Ride by Steppenwolf for the first time.
Ah... my home town...... Vietnam was a war crime. Glad you were not one of the damn human-sacrifices made in the name of profit and power.
I wasn't born until 1975, so I wasn't yet around to hear Janis and other greats like her first hand, but I have always loved her music. My absolute favorite of hers is "Me and Bobby McGee" (not sure why, but that one has always stuck with me), which I would love to see you discuss in a future video. However, even though it's not my favorite, I can't deny how amazing her rendition of "Piece of My Heart" is. Such a powerful song!
There will never be anyone that can approach the emotions Janis Joplin could wring out of a song. Her voice is unmatched...
The best!!! Thank you
It was in the 1970-71 school year at a Joplin Missouri high school. I was a Freshman while my older brother was Senior that Janis Joplin was the theme of a dance. It had the classic light show of the time with strobe lights and overhead projectors and pyrex glass pie plates with oils shown over the band while Janis Joplin songs rocked the gymnasium. I was enlisted to help with the light show against a banner with Janis Joplin my brother painted on it.That was the wildest dance in all the four years I attented Parkwood High School.
Janis paved the way for every female rock artist who came after her. One of my favourite memories of her was an interview she did with Dick Cavett on his show. She was explaining about her former schoolmates and the bullying she endured... her high school's 10th reunion was coming up and she was going home (with a smile on her face and twinkle in her eye) she made it clear it was with FU attitude. She was incredible, Me and Bobby McGee is still one of my most favourite songs. I hope she is still rock'n and singing her heart out as only she can do.
1968, I was 19 and on a motorcycle trip from Canada to Florida. In Gainsville, Fla. Janis was appearing at the fargrounds. Somehow I and my friend Jonathan were able to just walk into the arena here Janis and the band were rehearsing for their show that night. We didn't get to see that night's show, but did get to hear bits and pieces of several songs that afternoon.
The story of her recording and death surrounding “Me and Bobby McGee” is ABSOLUTELY heartbreaking.
It closely involved the writer Kris Kristofferson 💔
A Great story we should cover down the road.
@@ProfessorofRock Do it! Such a great story and song! Also my go-to karaoke song! XD
yeh recall a kk interview about their relationship and the song last summer i bought a bunch of 45s from a neighbor moving one is the song of all people jerry lee lewis like 74 or 5
@@ProfessorofRock You would do it justice, Professor 🙏🏼🌟
The way I heard it is Janis basically kidnapped Kris, n he willfully gave her the song so she would go to sleep so him and a friend could escape!
Adam, if I may. As much as Peace Of My Heart is a song that defined Janis career, the one song that had me stunned was "I Need A Man To Love", on Bi g Brother's Cheap Thrills album. Listen to that song with good set of headphones and concentrate on her singing. You can feel her breathing and the emotions she put into that performance. Absolutely amazing!
Janis was unique. Her voice was beyond incredible. There may never will be another talent like her.
I couldn't believe my ears when I first heard "Piece of My Heart" on the radio in 1968. There's never been another singer like Janis and there never will be. She was a category unto herself.
Man my sister loved Janis Joplin and she used to play her records so loud we could hear it from down the street LOL. I didn't mind because she bought so many albums back in the early 70's that we had all of the best music. Janis was the Queen for sure. She could really belt it out and this song is proof of that. Lost too soon like so many at her age. Cheers from Ottawa, Canada🍁
If you haven't seen Janis's live performance of Ball and Chain at the Monterey Pop Festival do yourself a favor and watch it, wow. Like the professor said the music sang her on this one too. The power of take another piece of my heart can't be overstated either. She belts it out like with so much emotion i get chills. Fantastic episode professor! Rest In Peace Pearl❤
So great!
I looked it up & oh my Lord she is AMAZING! I got chills listening to her, loved how she stamped her foot as she sang. Thanks for the recommendation. 👍
Janis Joplin is the Queen of Rock!! This is a fantastic episode and a huge relief to hear correct information on Janis. Piece of my Heart is the first recording I’d heard of Janis when I was 12 years old in 1976. My life changed forever.
Janis's version of "Summertime" is, in my humble opinion, the best version ever. Whenever I hear it, I can't help but stop whatever I'm doing, close my eyes, and just let it envelope me.
I absolutely adore her. I’m 53 and I look just like her. All my life there have been people popping up to tell me so, and it’s been a fun source of pride. ❤ oh, and she died four days after I was born.
Thank you so much for covering one of my very most favorite blues artists.
Poll: Who is your pick for the GREATEST FEMALE Vocalist of the ROCK ERA?
Martha Reeves
Ronnie Spector
Lita Ford 😍😍😍
Lizzy Hale 😍😍
Joan Fing Jett!!!
Ann Wilson of Heart.
Ann Wilson
Pat Benatar
Debbie Harry
I could definitely vouch that Janis is the greatest Rock vocalist in the Rock era, on many levels. There's been lots who have tried to come close, but no Pearl.❤
Greatest? all in the eye of the beholder. I'm going with Annie Lennox for proving a smooth-voiced alto could do avant-garde.
Loved Janis Joplin's music when I was young and still love it today. It is so real, impactful, and takes me back to my youth!
Amen!
I am 66 years old and I was fortunate enough to have grown up in the absolutely greatest decade when it comes to rock music where as the bar was set for all to follow, the 70's. I often wonder what it would be like if the 27's had lived. Just "IMAGINE" the wonderment the world would have to enjoy. Alas as the old adage says, there is a high price to pay for fame and glory.
Janis always seemed to be having SUCH FUN in her own inimitable way!! ☮️ Can't think of any other performer who ENJOYED dancing with her fans on stage like she did!!
Wouldn't we all like to have known her!! That phrase, "I'm gonna show you that a woman can be tough" has always resonated and echoed in my heart and head." ❤ MORE J.J. videos, please!! 👍
My retired former boss told me one of his many great stories of his life... one night he found himself in a Downtown Los Angeles neighborhood and he was hearing this loud sound coming from down the way, he couldn't resist it and he found himself in a club of which Big Brother and the Holding Company was on stage ripping. He said to this day it was the loudest thing he'd ever heard. In fact, he said that it was so loud the ground was shaking 🤯
Thanks!
@@ProfessorofRock A friend of mine was in the crowd at the Winnipeg Performance of the Festival Express in 1970. If you bring that concert up, strap in because he will tell you what an amazing show it was and 50+ years later, he still thinks Janis was the showpiece of the whole tour. She tore it up!
How was Janis?
As a kid of the 60's with all the iconic singers, bands and music, Janice shines. Looking foward to a spot on her and her music...
Her raspy voice gives me chills to this day. She was really an amazing person.
On a side note, you need to hear Ben Otwell of the band Gomez. He has a voice similar to Janis Joplin.
Port Arthur, Texas here. Thank you, Professor, for the great background explanation of Janis' early life. For some reason, no one ever talks about Dorothy and Seth and their unfulfilled dreams. I saw Janis when she came back for her high school reunion at Thomas Jefferson High School in 1970. It was not a happy scene for her. She wanted to come back at the height of her fame and see how those people in her class who bullied her felt about her rise to stardom. Unfortunately, those same people still didn't give her the time of day. She was crushed. She died two months later. I pass her old house every day, where she was finally recognized by the state of Texas with a historical marker in 2007. She also has a corner dedicated to her life in the Museum of the Gulf Coast in Port Arthur, where a replica of her famous 1964 Porsche 364 C Cabriolet sits. (The original car was auctioned at Sotheby's in 2015 for $1.75M) It's pretty cool.
And yes, she was definitely the greatest female rock singer ever, IMHO.
Great song, powerful voice and passion! Part of the “27 Club.” All the Artists who died at 27 yrs. Old. Freaky.
Thanks for this video on the Queen of Rock. Janis died the year before I was born, but I remember gazing at the cover and listening to Pearl from ‘71 that my parents had in their record collection. And I wondered: Who was this boho bluesy woman who dared to be different? Her lyrics and voice were a piercing cry, esp. to girls in the ‘70s, such that she made me feel a bit sad and unsettled if that makes any sense. She still does, even to me today at 50+.☮️
Absolute Queen of Rock N Roll!
Yes. HELL YEAH she’s the queen of rock. There are very few people with voices that can’t duplicated… even Elvis has singers that could do a decent job of sounding like him, but Janis… No!
I spent 8 hours one night listening to Janis Joplin covers on RUclips. There were some good covers, but no one, not a single one had the voice, the inflection or the SOUL of Janis Joplin. It goes without saying, she is my favorite female singer. Thanks for this video of Professor Rock.
Sometimes your life informs your performance.
I can't say enough about how much I love and appreciate her voice and one of my favorite songs. I want to visit with her someday in the Rock and Roll Heaven.
beauty comes from within, making her drop dead gorgeous.
There are several greatest women rock singers, but no one else had so much passion ever.
I was introduced to Janis Joplin by my father. Love this! My father has passed, but he loved her music.
Proud to say I remember ,saw Jani such a power house voice Back then it was natural talent that'll never pass our way again RIP lady you are and always will be QUEEN ❤
Indeed she is... The queen of rock, the best ever female performer, the most iconic female rock figure of the 60's and 70's; but much more than that, she is an example and an enduring image of perfection and commitment to her talents and her trade. Lovely woman all-around!
Janis Joplin is the true queen of Rock.... She blew the top off from the Monterey Pop fest 1967
Yes, I do believe Janis is the Queen of Rock. I heard her when I was maybe 9. My teen cousins loved her and played her records when their parents weren't home because Janis voice was so strong and they blasted it. I asked who was singing, and they told me really in awe of her and really raving about how awesome and amazing a singer she was. ❤
Janis “Pearl” Joplin was definitely a musical gem.
Thank you for sharing her story and doing it great justice. ❤
What a magnificent woman. She shone brightly and gave everything in one blazing go ❤
Here's another little known fact!
The 1979 film "The Rose" starring Bette Midler in her film debut, was originally planned to be a biopic about Janis called "The Pearl". Janis' family refused to let them use her name and likeness, so the movie became about a Janis type rock star from 1968/69, and "The Pearl" was changed to "The Rose"
She is the QUEEN of ROCK AND ROLL!!❤❤❤❤❤
I said it before and I'll say it again, Janice made you FEEL what she was singing. Legend.
I am not a fan of a lot of female singers, but Love Janis!! I am 63 and did not find out until I was 61 that my Dad's favorite female singer was Janis, but sadly he had passed by then. What a connection that would have been between us if I had known. Janis' music brings people together!
Janis' voice was/is iconic. Truly the Queen of Rock in perpetuity.
RIP Pearl 🎶🌹
I am so glad you have finally been able to post this. Without a doubt, Janis Joplin is an icon and Queen of Rock and Roll in so many ways. I was born in the mid-1970s, but grew up hearing Piece of my Heart and my personal favourite Mercedes Benz on the radio and I remember feeling blown away by her vocals. Sadly, she became one of the 27 club, but like many members of that tragic club, she forever lives on in her music. She never had the fortune of ever growing old, but will never ever be forgotten because of the legacy she left us.
Thanks Professor & yes i would love to see more about her.
Definitely the Queen of Rock.
Utterly Fabulous ❤
Love #1 in our heart episodes! Thanks Professor!!🤘🔥
Saw her at Irvin College in 1968. She was AWESOME!!!!! I was going to Fullerton State. I loved her an was heart broken 💔. She was a force!!!!😊
I was 20 when she died and I was absolutely heartbroken. She was a wonderful singer and yes, she was the Queen of Rock and Roll. R.I.P. Janis
Excellent presentation! One of my favorite musicians! I’d love to see you do another episode, covering Janis Joplin, for which no other female artist can compare.
55 plus years later she still reigns!
I got to see/hear her when she was with Big Brother, the Kozmic Blues Band, and when she went solo.
The single most impactful female rock vocalist of all time. Zero doubt of that. I have listened to Janis music more than anybody I know. I still get goosebumps sometimes.
Man, you are so straighforward and just LEARNED about this fantastic HISTORICAL and MEANINGFUL music history....KEEP IT UP!
I was in high school when her Pearl album was released. I loved it. The 60s and 70s were incredible for music. So grateful I was a teenager in the late 60s and early 70s. There were many negatives in that time period. But the music was definitely a positive.
Piece of My Heart was her only top 40 hit when she was alive. It reached #12. Even though it didn't hit #1, it drove the Cheap Thrills album to #1.
There’s an interview she did with Dick Cavett that’s just amazing. She reveals she’s going to her high school reunion. It’s actually a little heartbreaking. She was more intelligent than people think and Cavett seems fascinated by her. You can watch on RUclips and I think there’s a separate video of reporters trying to interview her at the reunion. Equally heartbreaking. I felt like I was seeing something too private to be recorded
I love everything about her. Thanks, Janice. I wish the world would have let you enjoy your life more. It must have sucked growing up in Texas and attitudes of the day.
Here Kosmic Blues album has always been my favorite, especially Little Girl Blue. That's the most soulful song ever sung!
Thanks a lot. Never recovered totally from my first listening of Janis's version of Summertime a few decades ago, and Me and Bobby McGee still drives me nuts everytime I hear it. Her voice dives so deep under your skin, it's just part of you, the very best part of it.
Such a talent. I haven’t heard anyone cover that song better than Janis. Thank you Professor
No question!
There is nothing and no one better than Janis! She rocked it like no other!!
My dear friend who just passed last year grew up across the street from her. He told me alot of great stories before he passed away!
I definitely reguard Janis as the queen of rock or at very least the first lady of rock. It isnt only that she was the first female superstar of rock it was that Joplin herself mattered just as much as her music that she rejected outdated conventions and paved the way for a new style of looking at a woman's role in society and in music inspired so many others in her wake. She didnt just sing a song she lived it and embodied it! No other performer male or female interpreted music with sincerity like Joplin and never compromised herself. Janis is the jam !! Love her music Ball & Chain, Summertime, Move Over, Catch me daddy is a real rocker!! When I was a dj in the early 90s one of the bars I played at had regulars that always requested her tune one night stand it was very popular. Great episode professor!!
Perfectly said!
Once again, Wow!! The professor delivers another gem!! A Pearl in fact!!! Janis Joplin's singing gives me chills. So authentic and raw!! The power is not gratuitous like on thoae unfortunate tv shows, with Janis the power is as real and as authentic as a Van Gogh. Thanks for putting a light on Janis Joplin, a true giant of Rock and Roll, however brief.
You just make me remember why I consider myself a Rock and Roll kid since early 1970’s. Janis was the first Rock and Roll singer that hoked me when a friend from my secondary school days, circa 1972 or 1973, introduced me to.
Janis is bar none the greatest female rock voice ever! Even Ann Wilson tried to sound like her in her songs. No one can tell me you can't hear Janis's influence on her vocals! Every female wanted that raspy don't give a damn vocal tone! R.I.P Janis You Are Legendary!
Exactly right!
stevie nicks has a voice comparable...
Piece Of My Heart is always on my Classic Rock go to's.
When I reflect on my 14th year, the summer of 1980 stands out vividly in my memory as my personal 'Summer of Love.' It began innocently enough, with me immersing myself in the sounds of rock legends like Supertramp. Little did I know, the course of my life was about to be forever altered.
One fateful weekend, my mother ventured off to the cottage, entrusting the care of our home to three teenagers-myself included. With the house to ourselves, the stage was set for adventure. And adventure indeed found us, in the form of three albums that would redefine my musical taste and shape my identity.
As the vinyl spun and the speakers reverberated with the soulful melodies of The Jimi Hendrix Experience, the haunting lyrics of The Doors, and the raw emotion of Janis Joplin's greatest hits, something inside me stirred. Surrounded by the energy of youth I underwent a metamorphosis that weekend.
In the span of those few days, I shed my former self and embraced the spirit of the counterculture movement. Suddenly, I found myself adorned with tie-dye shirts, sporting peace sign accessories, and viewing the world through kaleidoscope lenses. Literally. It was as if I had discovered a hidden part of myself that had been waiting to be unleashed.
That weekend marked the birth of a young hippie soul within me-a spirit that has remained an integral part of my being ever since. Looking back, I'm filled with gratitude for those transformative moments and the timeless music that accompanied them. So here's to the memories that shaped me and the summer that ignited my lifelong journey of love, peace, and rock 'n' roll. Thanks for the memories Professor.
I had the pleasure/experience to see Janis and BB&HC live at The Avalon Ballroom in the 60’s. There was no greater time for music. $2 bucks to get in! Also saw Hendricks, Morrison and all of them!
Gianni❤
Those were the days.
@@feliciaecheverria 💕✌🏼
As a Flower Child we were treated to Big Brother jamming at the Straight Theater on The Haight for free! What a trip!
@kathycurtis6359 What a fantastic experience!!!
I was in High school when she left this world. I was a huge fan then, and still am. I wonder what she would have done if she had lived. Thanks for putting this one out.
She's without a doubt a one of a kind. Fantastic stage personality.
I remember Cheap Thrills very well. In the winter of 1968 (I was 16 years old) and this album was hot, and all the young people knew about it. It was up there with Jefferson Airplane, Doors, Blood Sweat and Tears (with Al Kooper) , Iron Butterfly and all the top albums of that period. Lots of good music came out in 67-68. But this album mesmerized me. I would put it on the turntable and play it while I lay in bed in the dark. I'd listen to the entire album. I did this a lot. Yes, Janis Joplin had a great voice but for me there was something else that got my attention, and that was the band BB&HC. Those guys had a great, hard rockin, psychedelic, blues sound. I have always been a guitar man and Sam Houston Andrews and James Gurly put out a great sound, maybe the best from that era. Without those guitars I really don't think I would have given Janis much of a listen, she needed that band. The band gave the blues a mean gritty sound that I had never heard anywhere else, and still haven't until this day. They were unique. I don't think they were a band lacking talent or that she outgrew them. Some say Janis was too good for BB&HC but I believe the band was really good and helped make her what she was and she owed a lot to them. Unfortunately they separated as bands often do and Janis went a few more years until she accidentally overdosed. BB&HC were great guys and I always thought that had Janis stayed with them things might have turned out differently. Those guys looked out for her, protected her, she was like a sister to them. Anyway, I think Cheap Thrills was one of the best albums ever. I can listen to the entire album, not a clinker on it. All good stuff. The best work Janis ever did, in my humble opinion.
There was only one Pearl, and we were so so fortunate to hear someone express herself with such passion….thank you Janis
Very nicely done, as only a tribute to an iconic legend in Rock N Roll.