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Historical Treasures

JANIS JOPLIN’S PORSCHE 356

This trippy mode of transportation was owned by one of the hippy movement’s key figures, before her tragic death United States, 1960s

Of all the musical legends associated with the hippy movement, the name of Janis Joplin is one of the most famous. She instantly became a counter-culture icon due to her psychedelic musical styles, which infused rock with traditional blues. Previously a singer with the band Big Brother and the Holding Company, she is best known for her two solo albums, I Got Dem Ol’ Kozmic Blues Again Mama! in 1969 and Pearl in 1971. Visually she likewise became recognised for her bold fashions, which inspired many a young hippy. Alongside her beaded necklaces, fur hats and crocheted vests was her pop-art mode of transportation.

Joplin’s trippy transport was a 1964 Porsche 356C, which she bought in 1968 for $3,500.

Although she initially received the car in a standard production colour, she offered roadie Dave Richards $500 if he could devise something a little more ‘colourful’. His artwork was given the nickname ‘the history of the universe’ and ensured the car was instantly recognisable. Fans would flock to the vehicle and purportedly even leave notes for Joplin under the windshield wipers.

ABOVE Joplin pictured with her famous Porsche, a year before her death

On 4 October 1970, Joplin passed away of an accidental heroin overdose in a Los Angeles hotel at the age of 27. Three months later, her second album Pearl was released posthumously and became an instant sensation. It reached number one on the Billboard charts and according to Far Out magazine was certified a platinum album four times. Joplin herself has received a number of posthumous honours, including being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1995 and receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2005 Grammys.

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All About History
Issue 144
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