His music career started in the 4th grade when he rented his first trumpet. After this event and meeting Fats Domino, the life of Artie Kornfeld pointed in the direction of music; specifically rock and roll. Seen as one of the most prolific figures in rock music culture, Kornfeld is seen as one of the top 5 music producers, and is credited for being an individual with the most amounts of songs written and produced in history. Woodstock Story recently caught up with Kornfeld and had a chance to discuss Woodstock, West Fest, his new book The Pied Piper of Woodstock, and rock and roll. |
After a short performing career and being hired at Capitol Records, Kornfeld became the first vice president of rock music at age 21. Kornfeld is responsible for some of the biggest acts and songs of all time including Eye of the Tiger by survivor, Rockin; In The Free World by Neil Young, and Bert Sommer’s We’re all Playing in the Same Band to name a few. He is also responsible for developing legendary artists such as Bruce Springsteen, Santana, Kiss, Pink Floyd, The Band, Blondie, and countless others. Needless to say, the rock and roll resume of Artie Kornfeld is quite extensive.Known as the ‘Father of Woodstock‘, Kornfeld is set to release his book titled The Pied Piper of Woodstock in late September/early October. It will not only cover the legendary music festival, but give readers a glimpse into the history and development of the rock culture through the eyes of someone who was at the center of the movement. The book will be available on Amazon.com and your very own Woodstockstory.com for pre-order coming soon.The Pied Piper of Woodstock is an all encompassing look at Woodstock 1969, rock music, and the memoirs of a man who has always been about the music.”It’s not just about Woodstock; it’s a look into the entire rock and roll genre. I’ve spent about $500,000 doing interviews and specials all over the world; this will be the first money I’ve ever made on Woodstock,” said Kornfeld.In an attempt to capture the original Woodstock 1969 vibe, Kornfeld is also associated with the upcoming West Fest on October 25th at Golden Gate Park in San Francisco. Kornfeld believes that this is the perfect opportunity to get young music lovers involved in the scene, instill within them the spirit of the Woodstock Nation, and celebrate.”I want people to know that they are just as much of a part of the spirit of the Woodstock nation as anyone else. Without the fans and people who embrace the Woodstock spirit, I wouldn’t exist,” said Kornfeld.Kornfeld continues to help aspiring musicians achieve their dreams and educate the public on what Woodstock meant to the world. In the business of rock music, Kornfeld has established himself as one of the greats. He currently hosts his own radio show titled “Spirit of the Woodstock Nation” which can be heard on the ArtistFirst radio network every Tuesday at 10pm Eastern where he shares his experiences in the music industry and discusses the spirit of Woodstock and what it means today.Don’t miss West Fest, the release of The Pied Piper of Woodstock, and Sprit of the Woodstock Nation for your chance to learn about the whole picture of Woodstock and rock and roll.”Woodstock 1969 was not the end, it was the beginning; everyday is a Woodstock anniversary,” said Kornfeld.