The 5 Greatest Performances From 1970 Isle of Wight Festival

The Isle of Wight Festival in 1970 is often hailed as one of the greatest in the history of music festivals. Taking place on a small British island with just 100,000 residents, the festival attracted an estimated 600,000 attendees, surpassing even Woodstock in size. The island was unprepared for the influx, and the massive crowd overwhelmed the available sound systems. The Who stepped in to assist with their equipment, ensuring that the music could reach the entire audience. The festival was extensively documented on film, making it one of the most recorded events of its kind. Many people camped out on Afton Down, hoping to enjoy the music for free.

Here are the five most memorable performances from that legendary festival:

The Doors
The Doors’ performance was enveloped in darkness, as Jim Morrison refused to have spotlights on the band. Their haunting renditions of “The End” and “When the Music’s Over” were captured in the film Message to Love.

Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix took the stage in the early hours of August 31, accompanied by Mitch Mitchell on drums and Billy Cox on bass. Despite technical difficulties, including interference from a security radio during “Machine Gun,” Hendrix delivered an iconic set. Songs like “Power to Love,” “Midnight Lightning,” and “Foxy Lady” were later featured on the album The First Great Rock Festivals of the Seventies.

The Who
The Who’s performance included a full rendition of their rock opera Tommy. Their set was released in 1996 as Live at the Isle of Wight Festival 1970, and a DVD followed two years later, albeit with some cuts. The band’s electrifying show remains a highlight of the festival.

Joni Mitchell
Joni Mitchell’s set was interrupted by a hippie named Yogi Joe, who attempted to give a speech. After he was escorted offstage, the crowd began to boo. Mitchell made an emotional plea for respect, calming the audience. She concluded her performance with the heartfelt “Both Sides Now.”

Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen, accompanied by his band The Army, delivered a captivating performance. The song “Suzanne” is featured in Message to Love, and “Tonight Will Be Fine” also appeared on The First Great Rock Festivals of the Seventies. In 2009, his set was released as Live at the Isle of Wight 1970, available on both DVD and Blu-ray.