Fri 8/6-Sun 8/8
Janis Joplin, who died in 1970 at the age of 27, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995. Despite the arguments that follow the announcement of each year’s nominee class, that was a choice you found hardly anyone disagreeing with. Her bluesy, belting style, the lack of inhibition in her performances were fresh and distinctive at the time, especially given that THAT time was so hostile to women rock performers that they were few and far between.
This weekend, the Rock Hall celebrates the life and legacy of Joplin, who first made a splash with a shambolic psychedelic band called Big Brother & the Holding Company, before launching a sadly brief solo career before dying of a heroin overdose. She’s best known for her versions of Big Mama Thornton’s “Ball & Chain,” “Piece of My Heart” and Kris Kristofferson’s “Me and Bobby McGee.”
Janis Joplin Fan Weekend runs for three days and will feature the debut of a newly expanded exhibit devoted to the sui generis performer, which includes clothing, handwritten lyrics, rare photos and performance footage. The Rock Hall will be screening the 2009 Janis Joplin Music Masters tribute concert, as well as highlights from her induction. Her music will be played both inside the museum and on the Rock Hall Rock Boxes along East 9th Street.
It’s all included with general admission. Go here for more info.
rockhall/janis-joplin-fan-weekend