Jimi Hendrix played the longest set at the legendary Woodstock Music & Art Fair.
Jimi Hendrix's Record-Breaking Performance
Jimi Hendrix's performance at Woodstock was not only iconic but also the longest set played by any artist at the festival. Taking the stage early Monday morning, August 18, 1969, as the final act, his set lasted an impressive 130 minutes. This extended performance solidified his place in music history and showcased his unparalleled guitar mastery.
To put this in perspective, most other artists at Woodstock performed for significantly shorter durations:
- Major bands typically played for about 60 to 90 minutes.
- Other bands generally had sets ranging from 30 to 60 minutes.
Jimi Hendrix's set length nearly doubled that of the average major band, underscoring the unique scale of his closing act.
Set Length Comparison at Woodstock
The table below illustrates the typical set lengths at Woodstock compared to Jimi Hendrix's marathon performance:
| Artist Category | Typical Set Length |
|---|---|
| Jimi Hendrix | 130 minutes |
| Major Bands | 60 - 90 minutes |
| Other Bands | 30 - 60 minutes |
His performance, which included his legendary rendition of "The Star-Spangled Banner," became one of the defining moments of the festival and rock history.
