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Richie Havens Obituary
Havens, a folk singer and guitarist, was the first performer at the three-day 1969 Woodstock Festival. He returned to the site during the 40th anniversary in 2009.
"Everything in my life, and so many others, is attached to that train," he said in a 2009 interview with The Associated Press.
Havens was born in Brooklyn. He was known for his crafty guitar work and cover songs, including his well-received impersonation of Bob Dylan's "Just Like a Woman."
The singer's website said he had kidney surgery years ago and that he never recovered enough to perform concerts like he used to.
Havens performed at Bill Clinton's presidential Inauguration in 1993. He has released more than 25 albums. His last album was 2008's "Nobody Left to Crown."
"I really sing songs that move me," he said in an interview with The Denver Post. "I'm not in show business; I'm in the communications business. That's what it's about for me."
A public memorial will be planned for a later date.
MESFIN FEKADU
AP Music Writer
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
457 Entries
Gary J.Turnbull
July 13, 2025
A friend forever and ever. Rest in peace knowing that you left the world a better place.
Pearl Groff
April 23, 2025
A fine gentleman. Met at Philadelphia Folk Fest. We chatted and talked about Motherless child and when we are on the Peacetrain! I admired him as an artist person and friend.
Paul
August 27, 2024
Having grown up in the seventies Richie Havens was one of my favorite artists. I got to see him in a very small auditorium at the
University of Houston, but I just can't recall when it was. However I do have a vivid memory of how small the audience was and he just invited us up on the stage to sit with him while he sang his songs. It was just a special evening all around.
westcott michael
February 23, 2024
I was at the theater in East Greenwich hoping to get tickets. The theater was empty, no one was there it was snowing . As I looked around for someone, the door opened and in walked Richie with guitar case and a cloud of snow. Brushing the snow off he said hello where is everybody. I was so freaked out that he was right there, I just said hmm I don´t know and left . I´m sure he thought There was something wrong with me! To this day I can´t even think about it, without feeling that what a chance I pasted up to talk.
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Turid Mann
January 5, 2024
Your music reached right down into my heart. But even more I was moved by your gentle nature and sincere love of others. Saw you on Long Island years ago with three of my closest friends. A night I will never forget. Thank you...
Richell
May 6, 2023
Thank you Mr Havens for all the music and kindness you shared in our world of Love/Music/Kindness--- Love Richell---recently watched a movie titled "I'm not your woman" heard "Follow" and I will put a book in a child's hands and tell him/her this book is from Richie Havens
Joe in New Hampshire
February 3, 2023
An American legend . Our past musicians were all superior .
July 24, 2018
I heard Richie Havens in Binghamton , N.Y. many years ago. He will always be my favorite singer and human being...........David Canfield
Harry Simpson
April 23, 2018
Godspeed Richie, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
lyn stringer
April 20, 2018
I've loved Richie's music and personality sincerely since I was 16 I am now 66. Rest peacefully. You will always be in my
José Filho
January 19, 2018
Cada dia sem você é somente mais um dia que a música morre.
WB
March 18, 2016
You made the world a better place.
RIP, dear Richie.
July 30, 2014
Darlene L Parks Fletcher Rea we saw Richie in Utah !!!!! An his music played to mourn 1996 Congo Drummer ex husband paschal L Parks who loved Richies music !! Shocked & sad to see OB notice july 30:2014 !Richie be sooo missed an his Music!!!!! Our kids/ grdkids now fans too!!!music plays on !!Richies songs live on !!!!
Les and Cathy Rogers
April 22, 2014
Woodstock first made me aware of this very powerful force, as was He. His effect was lasting and unique. The World is richer and more full of hope because He lived.
Forest Graves
November 21, 2013
Rip. Did Richie have a brother name larry? That was in job corp in anaconda Montana ?
Neil Theasby
October 18, 2013
I was fortunate enough to see Richie Havens playing at The Isle of Wight Festival in 1970. Such passion, such energy, such creativity, such humanity! Farewell Sir Richie!
bobi baha
August 18, 2013
strum on my old friend ... bobi bizarre
Frank
June 22, 2013
Richie P Havens simply the best, so grateful to my friend Eileen turning me on to the music and message back in the sixties in the village. Never forgot and still listening Love Peace Happiness Thank you
June 13, 2013
Ritchie-------------Billy Perry is now having the best sound and soul of both of yoy together again....Deb
June 13, 2013
Sounds of a deep voice....Intenslee devilvering thoughts of reminders. that the people of the world dare not speak..for it is the dark skinned man that was chosen to deliver messages from the tsbernacle. For you were the chosen historian- to lift and rais all people And thenyou have found your dwelling place Ritchie-----your haven.friends froever...debbie "luke" Baker
Elaine Heveron
June 11, 2013
We have been saying the Buddhist Memorial prayer for you for the traditional 49 days. You should be safely on you way now, Richie. See you next time around!
christine lorch
May 27, 2013
You were performing at the Turning Point when we met. We sat in your vw and talked about life. I felt as though I was in the presence of a saint. I will love you now and always. Your gentleness was radient. You touched my center. I thank you for your beautiful music always.
May 17, 2013
May the god of comfort be a source of strength for your family at this difficult time. 2Corn 1:3, 4. Deepest Sympathy, Sue, Concord, NC
Scott Harold Hogetvedt
May 15, 2013
Woodstock would not have been Woodstock without you Richie....
Joel Dector
May 13, 2013
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Larry Rose
May 10, 2013
Cousin Richie RIP. We met while you were filming a video in NYC, we started talking about family and how we were related. You were very gracious and kind to me. You will be missed.
Debra Jackson
May 6, 2013
Hope you get your freedom.You are Gods child.RIP Love YOU Always.
Freedom...Freedom
S. Rose
May 4, 2013
Goodnight brother Richie Havens, see you in the morning...rest in eternal peace
S. Rose
May 4, 2013
semira rose
May 4, 2013
May your soul rest in eternal peace dear brother
Richard P. Havens ~ your music will live forever in our hearts.
nell Simone
May 4, 2013
Thank you Richie Havens for all the gifts you gave to so many. You music and your spirit will be with us all for lifetime after lifetime. RIP
Nella and Mike
May 4, 2013
EXCELLENT ARTIST!!! ALWAY'S LOVED YOUR MUSIC, YOU WILL BE MISSED!!!! RIP
1/24/2010 Pittsburgh
Sheila
May 3, 2013
It is such an understatement, but I had the joy, the thrill, the pleasure of seeing Richie in concert only four times. Always in Pittsburgh. Thank you Richie and Thank you Pittsburgh. When talking about him to my friends, I would often say... "Me 'n Richie have been together for a long time". And we were and we will still be. Of all of my favorite artists, I choose Richie head over heels when the mood calls for comfort, solitude, strength and courage. He played and sang with such emotion. Some times listening to him could be a cathartic experience. We saw him last in Pittsburgh 1/24/2010. I am grateful to him for pleasure watching him perform and 'hearing his message'. What a gentle soul. Peace and condolences to your family. Love you Richie, Love you Baby... Thanks
Mia
May 2, 2013
May yourest in Peace!
Mia
May 2, 2013
May you rest in Peace!
Marianne Solinas
April 30, 2013
I was honored to attend the informal memorial at City Winery last night. It was wonderful to hear all the lovely stories from a wide range of fans. As for myself, I am saddened I never got the chance to personally meet you, but your magical voice and music will live forever in my heart and soul. Rest in Eternal Peace my "friend"
April 30, 2013
Thank you for all the great music.
Artie Sutcliffe
April 30, 2013
I had the pleasure of attending many of Richie's concerts and meeting him on the streets of Greenwhich Village-God Bless him-he loved life-There were only two guests invited back to the Johnny Carson on two consecutive nights-one was Barbara Streisand and the other was Richie Havens.
Fredi Orange
April 29, 2013
Thank you for being. Will never forget you. Rest in peace brother.
Paul Taylor
April 28, 2013
May Richie's family feel the blessings and peace from those who loved his music and art as they have been blessed. My life will be forever touched by Mr. Havens' art and life. Godspeed.
Patrick, Tommy & James
April 28, 2013
"Forever Friends"
C Finnegan
April 28, 2013
Your music spoke to me like few others. I will always regret that I never saw you perform live. Thank you and rest peacefully.
April 28, 2013
You were the primary influence that made my guitar style what it is/was. You also showed me that (re-)arrangements of others' songs can be a powerful thing. Hearing of your passing was some of the saddest news to come my way ... ever. Things are different because you were here. See you later. -- Rab Preer (Aurora CO)
Claudia Chase-Bryce
April 28, 2013
We on Earth have lost a very special human being. A man who treated everyone the same-with respect and kindness. I had the good fortune to have known him for a short period of time. He was a beautiful person, with a soulful voice that touched many hearts. Rest in Peace dear friend.
Claudia Chase-Bryce Tujunga, CA
Kathryn Elich
April 28, 2013
Woodstock '69 ~ So happy to have known you - at once quickened and assured by your lovely voice. 'Til we meet again on that Golden Shore.
"For eye has not seen, nor has ear heard, nor entered into the heart of man what God has prepared for those who love Him."
Edward Hogan
April 27, 2013
got Your message back in the village snd e 3 rd st and it has been with me every day since. We will miss your presence.
April 27, 2013
With sympathy to those he loved and who loved him, God bless you Richie Havens, you used your God given talent positively. Marilyn & Maureen (Costello family)
Stewart Koenig
April 27, 2013
One of my all-time favorite artists.I met Richie twice and he was gracious and friendly. I will miss him immensely. May his memory be for a blessing. With condolences to his family.
April 27, 2013
you have moved me as a singer, and you have touched me as a warm, sweet human being. You will be missed-Heaven as another angel.
Annette
April 27, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
dawyn alter
April 27, 2013
You are now with the real angels. Peace and blessings to your family.
Much Love
debbie baker
April 27, 2013
Ritchie--4 we have laughed 2 gether and also cried 2 gether--------now I will be mindful Debbie baker
Jennifer Grace
April 26, 2013
So saddened by this premature loss of a kind, caring, and inspiring human being. I'm so glad our lifetimes crossed. We are so fortunate to have his music in our lives. His voice and energetic guitar playing are embedded in my very soul. Thank you Richie for putting yourself out there in the world where we could all claim you in a very personal way even though we might not have known you personally. You made a difference. You are well loved and will be greatly missed. xo
Anita Bussard
April 26, 2013
Peace be with you.
cookie windham
April 26, 2013
what a great loss...he was one of the greatest of my time....
Cindy Haas
April 26, 2013
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
April 26, 2013
Isaw richie in the 70s what a great show .I will always remember that super show.RIP
April 26, 2013
Richie Havens is one of the greatest singers of all times. He was gentle, caring & compasionate. I'll never forget seeing him perform the first song at Woodstock, which was Freedom which he has now attained. Now Richie, Jimi, Buddy, and many others can play and sing in Heaven. I send condolences to his family and friends. The world has truly lost a legend. RIP Mr. Havens...............
Alice Muhammad
April 26, 2013
Richie is the" HIgh flying Bird" that will look down as he goes on by. I heard you play in '69 when I was 14 and Ioved you ever since. May God be pleased with him Your friends anf family wait you:I
Terence Brownlow
April 26, 2013
After all the years of listening to Richie, I finally got to see him in concert, shake his hand, and get an autograph. Totally enthralled by his kind gentle, manner and potent voice. Richie will continue to sing to me via his recordings and I will continue to miss his presence. May you rest in the peace you shared with all of us.
Mary Ann Meredith
April 25, 2013
I Love You Richie Havens. You were one of the greatest. RIP..................
Swaunee Fl. Scramble Camble van
Max Sirius
April 25, 2013
"Sometimes I feel like a motherless child" :(
J Quick
April 25, 2013
Your music lives on, a beacon in the darkness.
Richie and Helen(His oldest groupie) Helen
Helen Paxson Waicunas
April 25, 2013
My son took me to see Richie Hsvens many years ago, I have been attending his concerts from the East Coast to the West Coast until his last venue. . We will keep your music playng for a long, long time. He was an amazing man. One of a kind performer. My children, grand children love his music and I have taken them all to see Rihie.RIP My Friend. Sing to the angels. Richie's oldest groupie.
deb baker
April 25, 2013
I cry for u leaving this planet, Debbie baker
April 25, 2013
Richie Havens was a permanent fixture in my life!
Mark Smith
April 25, 2013
Freedoma
maggie patterson
April 25, 2013
rest in peace richie. no one who brought such extraordinary joy to so many is ever truly gone.
Maureen Brill
April 25, 2013
Richie Havens was an AWESOME musician singer. He'll be missed.
Kimberly Russell
April 25, 2013
Wonderful musician and peaceful spirit! He will be missed!
john schadler
April 25, 2013
Richie was among the finest. Remembering summer concerts in Central Park as some of the best. An unforgettable musician and human being that defined a generation. We will miss you.
eileen nesselt
April 25, 2013
What a beautiful soul who truly touched me. I speak for many who are saddened but will always have your music to keep that beautiful spirit alive.
Tony Schirner
April 25, 2013
Richie, I'm a musician from the late 60's and I so admired your free spirit and soulful voice and rythems.Thank you so much for your addition of memorable songs to this world.RIP Mr.Havens.
April 25, 2013
what if god was one of us nick lawrence
April 25, 2013
May you find comfort during this most difficult time. Ps. 55:22
Dafna Soltes Stein
April 25, 2013
He was a special gift to the world and brought sunshine into the heart of the universe.
Charlie Davis
April 25, 2013
You were the persona of Woodstock.Rest in peace.
April 25, 2013
What a light has left our midst.Like so many people I loved Richie Havens; listening to his music, attending concerts and having unforgettable conversation. We will so miss this Great Soul until we meet again.
Anne K (Mahwah, NJ)
Lisa Perry
April 25, 2013
Richie Havens had a way to bring music to the people, his unique ability to combine lyrics, with sounds of notes that made your spirit humm. I felt your Spirit and now it's in the breeze Thank You Mr Havens for the great gift you gave Infinitly!
Lisa Perry
April 25, 2013
Richie Havens had a way to bring music to the people, his unique ability to combine lyrics, with sounds of notes that made your spirit humm. I felt your Spirit and now it's in the breeze Thank You Mr Havens for the great gift you gave Infinitly!
April 25, 2013
RIP Richie,I bought one of your 8 tracks
back when..Great talent
Jan H
April 25, 2013
Richie Havens brought so much joy and happiness to people when he was alive on this earth and that is a special gift that not all people are blessed with. I hope that the loving and happy memories of him will bring comfort and joy to all those who loved and adored him so that they won't be overly saddened and fight comfort in the thought that our loving creator has a wonderful promise in store for all of obedient mankind so that now of us will ever be sad again
mike little
April 25, 2013
RIP Richie Havens the songs woodstock it was all great.
Joe B
April 25, 2013
Thank You Richie for being a big part of my youth. Every man alive who heard San Francisco Bay Blues felt every note!!
JB Tarrytown
April 25, 2013
I will never forget the time that you shook my hand after playing "Here Comes the Sun" at SIU. May you rock in heaven and may your soul rest in peace.
Darren
April 25, 2013
My mother played your music while living in the Bronx as,she thorough clean the house on Saturdays. I was a little boy I am now your biggest fan til this day as well,as my own children and grandchildren. I love you
Denise
April 25, 2013
RIP
April 25, 2013
I'm so sorry for your loss. Remember Jesus died so that we may live again. John 3:16
Duke
April 25, 2013
I am going to miss you Richie Havens !!!!!!!!!! I loved the way you played your guitar. Nobody could play that thing quite like you.
April 25, 2013
I offer my deepest sympathy to Richie Havens family, friends and fans. May good memories provide solace for your during this challenging time; and may God provide you with the assurance that you will see your loved one again in Paradise.
April 25, 2013
Richie, you will be misseed my friend. gg allin
M Kozak
April 25, 2013
Thank you. ...let your song Here Comes The Sun play from coast to coast
April 25, 2013
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
John L. Simson
April 25, 2013
I saw him in 1969 at Potsdam during a music special week end at the New York State college. Very moving time.
Ruth Maginnis
April 25, 2013
Saw you at an Oxfam event in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park, Richie. You had a big heart.
Mary Baird Leighton
April 25, 2013
The World Weeps...Thanks Richie...We will Adore Your Message you Gave to Humanity in your Music...the gift that always keep Giving...Rest Well in the Spirit of the Getting back to the GARDEN!
A. Brown
April 25, 2013
Richie Havens gave a talk in FSU's Tulley Gym, I recall, and I was there to hear him speak. I was 18 years old. He was gracious and accommodating to all who came to hear him. I had been listening to his music for a number of years, but to finally see him in person--and to know he was a performer at Woodstock--is a memory that I will always cherish.
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