History
Performed at 8:00 AM on Monday at Woodstock to a crowd of around 200,000 (down from the peak of 400,000), this became the defining image of the festival and one of the most important moments in rock history. Hendrix used feedback, distortion, and guitar effects to create sounds of rockets, bombs, and chaos, transforming the patriotic anthem into a powerful Vietnam War commentary without saying a word.
Awards & Recognition
- One of the most iconic moments in rock history
- Library of Congress National Recording Registry (2005)
- Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Songs: #52
Notable Cover Versions
- Whitney Houston (1991 (different style))
Guitar Details
Key: E Major
Capo: None
Tempo: Free tempo/Rubato
Difficulty: Expert
Chords Used:
N/A - primarily melodic
Recording Details
Written: Traditional (Francis Scott Key, 1814)
Recorded: August 18, 1969 (live)
Length: 3:46
Producer: Live recording