8/2/2009 Hippiefest, Humphreys By The Bay, San Diego, CA


 19 years ago today...

August 2, 2009 - San Diego, CA

Oldies acts from the 60s and 70s combined to produce "Hippiefest," a nostalgia concert performed outdoors at Humphries By the Bay.
This year's edition of Hippiefest included The Turtles, Chuck Negron, lead singer of Three Dog Night, Felix Cavaliere of the Rascals, Badfinger and Leslie West of Mountain.
Flo and Eddie, the front men of the Turtles, served as emcees on the night and did their own comedy routine between their popular songs like "Happy Together" and "Elenore." A standard bit in their show is the band walking on to the stage to Guns 'N' Roses "Welcome To The Jungle." Right when you think the geezers will sell out and cover a newer rock song, they stop the music and say "we don't play this shit" and roll right into a 60s pop song.
Chuck Negron is the recognizable voice behind "Joy To The World," "One "and "Never Been To Spain" among others. He sounded the most like the old records.
Leslie West played a spirited version of Mountain's "Mississippi Queen" and was recognized as the only Hippiefest participant who had played Woodstock.
Hippiefest continues to roll on, but has been rebranded as the "Happy Together" tour, named for the Turtles top hit.
Humphries is a wonderful small outdoor venue on the water at Shelter Island, an excellent summer site that attracts major acts. Boats pull up as close as possible for free listening.

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