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‘Freedom’ singer Richie Havens dies

$PHOTOCREDIT_ON$Associated Press$PHOTOCREDIT_OFF$

NEW YORK — Richie Havens, who sang and strummed the song “Freedom” for a sea of people at Woodstock, has died at 72.

His family says in a statement that Havens died Monday of a heart attack.

Havens, a folk singer and guitarist, performed at the 1969 Woodstock Festival. He returned to the site during the 40th anniversary in 2009.

The performer was born in Brooklyn. He was known for his crafty guitar work and cover songs.

Havens said in a 2009 interview with The Associated Press about Woodstock: “Everything in my life, and so many others’, is attached to that train.”

A public memorial will be planned for a later date.

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