Richie Havens , who came to wide fame as the opening act at Woodstock , died early . He wrote a history of the festival for CNN.com on its 40th anniversary in 2009 . He said he took the stage to perform his iconic song when other acts were delayed . News coverage was filtered and selective , and we felt manipulated and silenced by the lack of information . Woodstock : In a pre - digital age , Woodstock was a peaceful , and global celebration .
Richie Havens , who came to wide fame as the opening act at Woodstock , died early . He wrote a history of the festival for CNN.com on its 40th anniversary in 2009 . He said he took the stage to perform his iconic song when other acts were delayed . Woodstock : In a pre - digital age , Woodstock was a peaceful , and global celebration .