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DUKAS_190712408_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Rolling Stones Tour Manager Sam Cutler attempts to control the crowd. The organizers of Altamont had also put together the relatively peaceful three day Festival at Woodstock, New York the previous August. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712407_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
An overzealous fan removes all his clothing. Many incidents, presumably drug induced, occurred throughout the day. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712405_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
A Hells Angel stands guard onstage. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712403_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Carlos Santana performs the first set of the day. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712402_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Crosby, Stills & Nash (CSN) is a folk rock supergroup made up of David Crosby, Stephen Stills and Graham Nash. a as (also as CSNY when joined by occasional fourth member Neil Young) Noted for their intricate vocal harmonies and lasting influence on music and culture. All four members of CSNY have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice. Initially formed by the trio of David Crosby, Stephen Stills and Graham Nash, it's genesis lies in three 1960s rock bands: The Byrds , The Hollies and The Buffalo Springfield. (Sam Emerson / Polaris) (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712401_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
December 6, 1969 - Altamont, California, United States: Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman of the The Flying Buritto Brothers at The Altamont Speedway.The Flying Burritos were one of the opening acts at the Rolling Stones’ infamous free show at Altamont Speedway. (Sam Emerson / Polaris) (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712400_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Concert Organizer Michael Lang. The organizers of Altamont had also put together the relatively peaceful three day Festival at Woodstock, New York the previous August. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712399_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
December 6, 1969 - Altamont, California, United States: Gram Parsons, originator of Country Rock music and member of The Flying Buritto Brothers playing at The Altamont Speedway.The Flying Burritos were one of the opening acts at the Rolling Stones’ infamous free show at Altamont Speedway. (Sam Emerson / Polaris) (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712398_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
December 6, 1969 - Altamont, California, United States: Gram Parsons, originator of Country Rock music and member of The Flying Buritto Brothers playing at The Altamont Speedway.The Flying Burritos were one of the opening acts at the Rolling Stones’ infamous free show at Altamont Speedway. (Sam Emerson / Polaris) (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712397_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Hells Angels stand at the side of the stage. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712396_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to Woodstock, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712395_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
The Jefferson Airplane perform; Grace Slick. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712393_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Mick Jagger performs during the Stones headlining portion of the show. Jagger had to speak to the crowd several times in attempts to quell the escalating aggression in front of the stage. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712391_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Mick Jagger performs during the Stones headlining portion of the show. Hells Angels look on at side of the stage. Jagger had to speak to the crowd several times in attempts to quell the escalating aggression in front of the stage. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712389_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Mick Jagger performs during the Stones headlining portion of the show. Hells Angels look on at side of the stage. Jagger had to speak to the crowd several times in attempts to quell the escalating aggression in front of the stage. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712387_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Mick Jagger performs during the Stones headlining portion of the show. Hells Angels look on at side of the stage. Jagger had to speak to the crowd several times in attempts to quell the escalating aggression in front of the stage. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712384_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Crosby, Stills & Nash (CSN) is a folk rock supergroup made up of David Crosby, Stephen Stills and Graham Nash. a as (also as CSNY when joined by occasional fourth member Neil Young) Noted for their intricate vocal harmonies and lasting influence on music and culture. All four members of CSNY have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice. Initially formed by the trio of David Crosby, Stephen Stills and Graham Nash, it's genesis lies in three 1960s rock bands: The Byrds , The Hollies and The Buffalo Springfield. (Sam Emerson / Polaris) (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712383_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
December 6, 1969 - Altamont, California, United States: Gram Parsons, originator of Country Rock music and member of The Flying Buritto Brothers playing at The Altamont Speedway.The Flying Burritos were one of the opening acts at the Rolling Stones’ infamous free show at Altamont Speedway. (Sam Emerson / Polaris) (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712382_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
The Jefferson Airplane perform. Jack Casady flanked by Hells Angels. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712380_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
The Jefferson Airplane perform; Marty Balin. Balin was knocked unconscious by Hells Angels after leaping into the crowd to aid fans who were being beaten. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712378_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Mick Jagger performs during the Stones headlining portion of the show. Jagger had to speak to the crowd several times in attempts to quell the escalating aggression in front of the stage. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712375_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
The Jefferson Airplane perform; Marty Balin. Balin was knocked unconscious by Hells Angels after leaping into the crowd to aid fans who were being beaten. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712372_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
December 6, 1969 - Altamont, California, United States: Gram Parsons, originator of Country Rock music and member of The Flying Buritto Brothers playing at The Altamont Speedway.The Flying Burritos were one of the opening acts at the Rolling Stones’ infamous free show at Altamont Speedway. (Sam Emerson / Polaris) (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712371_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
An Angel stands guard onstage armed with a pool cue, which he was seen beating concert goers with. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712370_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Throngs of fans arrive at the outdoor concert. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712369_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Mick Jagger performs during the Stones headlining portion of the show. Jagger had to speak to the crowd several times in attempts to quell the escalating aggression in front of the stage. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712368_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Carlos Santana performs the first set of the day. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712367_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
The Jefferson Airplane perform; Grace Slick. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712366_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
December 6, 1969 - Altamont, California, United States: Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman of the The Flying Buritto Brothers at The Altamont Speedway.The Flying Burritos were one of the opening acts at the Rolling Stones’ infamous free show at Altamont Speedway. (Sam Emerson / Polaris) (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712365_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
The Jefferson Airplane perform. Grace Slick and Jorma Kaukonen. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712364_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Carlos Santana , whose performance began the day's program. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712363_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Concert Organizer Michael Lang. The organizers of Altamont had also put together the relatively peaceful three day Festival at Woodstock, New York the previous August. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712361_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Keith Richards watches The Flying Burrito Brothers perform early in the day, flanked by several Hells Angels. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712360_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Carlos Santana , whose performance began the day's program. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712359_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Child seen alone among the crowd. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712358_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Mick Jagger performs during the Stones headlining portion of the show. Jagger had to speak to the crowd several times in attempts to quell the escalating aggression in front of the stage. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712356_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
An overzealous fan removes all his clothing. Many incidents, presumably drug induced, occurred throughout the day. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712355_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
The Jefferson Airplane perform; Marty Balin. Balin was knocked unconscious by Hells Angels after leaping into the crowd to aid fans who were being beaten. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712353_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Carlos Santana performs the first set of the day. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712352_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
December 6, 1969 - Altamont, California, United States: Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman of the The Flying Buritto Brothers at The Altamont Speedway.The Flying Burritos were one of the opening acts at the Rolling Stones’ infamous free show at Altamont Speedway. (Sam Emerson / Polaris) (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712351_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
December 6, 1969 - Altamont, California, United States: Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman of the The Flying Buritto Brothers at The Altamont Speedway.The Flying Burritos were one of the opening acts at the Rolling Stones’ infamous free show at Altamont Speedway. (Sam Emerson / Polaris) (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712350_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
An Angel stands guard onstage armed with a pool cue, which he was seen beating concert goers with. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712349_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
An overzealous fan removes all his clothing. Many incidents, presumably drug induced, occurred throughout the day. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712348_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to Woodstock, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712347_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
December 6, 1969 - Altamont, California, United States: Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman of the The Flying Buritto Brothers at The Altamont Speedway.The Flying Burritos were one of the opening acts at the Rolling Stones’ infamous free show at Altamont Speedway. (Sam Emerson / Polaris) (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712346_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
December 6, 1969 - Altamont, California, United States: Gram Parsons and Chris Hillman of the The Flying Buritto Brothers at The Altamont Speedway.The Flying Burritos were one of the opening acts at the Rolling Stones’ infamous free show at Altamont Speedway. (Sam Emerson / Polaris) (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712345_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Part of the tumultuous crowd at Altamont. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712344_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
Two Hells Angels guard the stage. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712343_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
December 6, 1969 - Altamont, California, United States: Gram Parsons, originator of Country Rock music and member of The Flying Buritto Brothers playing at The Altamont Speedway.The Flying Burritos were one of the opening acts at the Rolling Stones’ infamous free show at Altamont Speedway. (Sam Emerson / Polaris) (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
DUKAS_190712342_POL
Rolling Stones headline the disastrous 1969 Altamont Festival
The Jefferson Airplane perform; Jack Casady and Marty Balin. Balin was knocked unconscious by Hells Angels after leaping into the crowd to aid fans who were being beaten. Scheduled to triumphantly end the Stones' first US tour in three years and anticipated as a sequel to the successful three day Woodstock, New York festival of August 1969, Altamont was unofficially billed as "Woodstock West". Approximately 300,000 people showed up expecting a peaceful day of outdoor music. However, violence broke out early in the day, as Hells Angels bikers beat back concertgoers near the stage. Hired by the Stones as "security" following a similar practice with a British motorcycle gang in England the previous summer, The Angels used pool cues, full cans of beer and steel-toed boots to keep the crowds away from the stage and their motorcycles. Some acts, including the Grateful Dead, canceled their segments due to the negative atmosphere. Captured on film for the movie "Gimme Shelter", the day long concert was interrupted frequently due to drug-induced crowd behavior, scuffles and injuries. The violence reached its peak during the Stones performance when an Angel named Alan Passaro was seen stabbing a black man (Meredith Hunter) in the crowd. Hunter was at the concert with his white girlfriend; he is seen pulling a hand gun on camera prior to his being stabbed. Hunter was pronounced dead at the scene and Passaro was prosecuted but acquitted in 1971. (Sam Emerson/POLARIS) (FOTO:DUKAS/POLARIS) -
