It was 1969 and opening night of the Newport Jazz Festival. The atmosphere was
a little more electric than usual since George Wein had booked a lot of rock
acts that year and had the Fillmore East's light show at the fest. The crowd
was less reserved than normal. A good time was being had by all until heavy
thunderstorms stopped the music and sent the audience running for whatever
little shelter was available. After about half an hour it was decided to to
start the music up again even though the storm had not abated, the stage being
covered. So Sun Ra and the Arkestra came out and the moment they started
playing the rain stopped and the sky completely cleared.... I
swear it really happened just like that.
