The Woodstock Music & Art Festival will be remembered for peace, love, great music and some “brown acid” the over half million in attendance were warned about. But something you might not have known is how much the performers were paid to appear at Woodstock.

On top of the list; Jimi Hendrix. As the headliner of the festival, Hendrix delivered a memorable performance that reportedly earned himself a cool $18,000. Another significant performance was turned in by Joe Cocker, notably his rendition of The Beatles “With a Little Help from My Friends.” Sadly, memorable doesn’t get you paid; Cocker only earned $2,750 for his time in Bethel, New York. Cocker’s pockets weren’t as light as some other Woodstock performers. Santana only earned $1,500 for his star-making performance.

Some of the bigger names in attendance did bring home larger purses; Blood, Sweat and Tears didn’t cry when they brought a $15,000 check to the bank and Creedence Clearwater Revival was paid handsomely, earning $10K for the day. 

– EJ Judge, WCBS-FM, New York