Richie Havens Albums (22)
What The Critics Say
The earnest Richie Havens of Woodstock has turned into a mellower, wiser man and a very spiritual individual -- which infuses his music with a wonderful depth. "The Well," the album's opening track, is a prime example, a small path toward truth and love. But love in all its forms is the central idea of the album -- even down to one of the covers, a glowing, laid-back version of Gary Wright's '70s FM staple "Love Is Alive" that's enough to make you forget the original (now if he could only manage the same for "Dream Weaver"). But his individual stamp is unmistakable, whether on his own songs, which make up the majority of the disc, or his covers -- his take on Pink Floyd's "On the Turning Away," remaking it as an Indian meditation, is nothing less than inspired. But inspiration runs deep throughout Wishing Well. It's a walk through a blooming garden of the mind and heart. ~ Chris Nickson, All Music Guide
'Live at the Cellar Door'
Release Date 9/30/1995
Tracks 12
Label VSOP
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What The Critics Say
Guitarist/composer Richie Havens keeps making thought-provoking, poignant and intensely personal music, with few (if any) romantic songs and frank discussions of issues without violent or sexist rhetoric. This is Havens' first solo release in several years, and it contains only one original. But his covers of songs by Sting, Kris Kristofferson, Bob Lind and Marty Balin become his own memorable statements, while guitarist Billy Perry and guest guitarist Greg Chansky provide three new compositions. Although this doesn't have the same resonance as his great 1960s LPs, it's a worthy vehicle for the 1990s. ~ Ron Wynn, All Music Guide
'Sings Beatles & Dylan'
Release Date 1/1/1987
Tracks 18
Label Rykodisc
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What The Critics Say
Richie Havens is probably the only '60s icon who could get away with an album like this without apology. But for the presence of the electric keyboards, synth bass, and '80s-style drums, these performances by Havens could easily have appeared 18 years earlier. His performances of "Here Comes the Sun," "If Not for You," "Strawberry Fields Forever," and "Lay Lady Lay" all display a satisfying intimacy, and "Rocky Raccoon" is just plain fun, but his cover of "The Long and Winding Road" is probably the best version of this song ever done, with "Let It Be" not far behind. Overall, they're more sophisticated than some of Havens' earlier work, a mix of soul and folk traditions with an overlay of rock, that any longtime fan will appreciate. ~ Bruce Eder, All Music Guide
