Richie Havens dead: Legend of 1969 Woodstock rock festival dies of heart attack at 72

Richie Havens, the famous folk singer who opened the legendary 1969 Woodstock rock festival, has died of a heart attack at the age of 72.

First reports, quoting family in New York and his agency in Los Angeles, did not say where Richie Havens had died.

Brooklyn-born Richie Havens was famous for his distinctive guitar and singing style.

Recalling Woodstock, Richie Havens once said: “Everything in my life, and so many others’, is attached to that train.”

Richie Havens “was gifted with one of the most recognizable voices in popular music”, the agency said, quoted by AFP news agency.

“His fiery, poignant, soulful singing style has remained unique and ageless.”