J-O-P-L-I-N: Janis’ Enduring ‘Bluesy Moxie’-50 Years after her death

Although it was 50 years ago, what a shock Oct. 4, 1970, must have been for music fans.

Just two weeks after the sudden and tragic loss of Jimi Hendrix due to a drug overdose, fans lost yet another legend when powerhouse Janis Joplin succumbed to the same fate.

Joplin, who had struggled to break free from addiction for most of her adult life, was found dead on the floor of her hotel room. A needle was nearby and exceptionally potent heroin was in her veins. She was just 27 years old!

Joplin seemed to be entering a new phase of her career. She was winding down recording of her album “Pearl” and had taken more command of production. She had formed her own band, one up to the challenge of keeping up with her boundless vocal talent.

Imagine for a moment what the world might be like if both Jimi and Joplin had not been lost to us? What if they’d lived and carried on their creative careers? Is it too bold to dream that they might have collaborated on an album together? Would music fans be treated to regular Monterey and Woodstock music festival reunions?