Late 60s Hippies find God!

Focus on the late period of psychedelia and its cultural implications.
- Increased interest in diverse religions during this period.

Historical Context
- The beat poets greatly influenced the hippie movement.
- Emphasis on exploring various religions from around the world, especially Zen Buddhism.
Characteristics of Beat Poets' Beliefs
- Zen Buddhism seen as a path to peace, love, and harmony.
- Contrasted with the Judeo-Christian traditions, which were viewed as less fulfilling in a spiritual or communal sense.

Connection to Religion
- Throughout the era of psychedelia, there was a burgeoning interest in faith and religious practices.
Influence of the Vietnam War
- Increased fear and hopelessness during Vietnam led many young people to explore faith.
- People typically fragmented by hardship began to find strength in religions that they previously disregarded.

Introduction of Religious Rock and Roll
- The intersection of the hippie movement and rock music created a new genre focused on religious themes.
Notable Works
- Jesus Christ Superstar (1969)
- A significant early example of a rock opera with religious themes.
- Released by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Tim Rice.
- Initial reception was controversial, seen as scandalous by some audiences.
- Inspired multiple adaptations: Broadway show in 1971, film in 1973.

Personal Anecdote
- The speaker recalls their family's response, specifically their grandmother's shock at the blending of rock music with the story of Jesus.
Lyrics Overview
- Lyrics reflect Jesus's emotions and struggles as he approaches his fate, challenging the audience's perception of divine narratives.
Vocal Representation
- Ian Gillen was the original voice of Jesus on the album, representing a hard rock sound that contrasted traditional interpretations.
- Ted Neely is mentioned as a prominent figure in various adaptations, especially in the role of Jesus.

Godspell (1971)
- A later rock musical offering a modernized interpretation of the gospel of Matthew in a New York City setting.
- Characteristics:
- Infusion of joy, singing, dancing, and vibrant costumes reflecting the hippie culture at that time.
- Met with mixed reactions upon release, but overall it was seen positively for its happiness.
Tommy (1969)
- Another significant rock album released by Pete Townshend of The Who in the same year as Jesus Christ Superstar.
- Narrative Overview:
- The story follows Tommy, who becomes deaf, dumb, and blind after witnessing family trauma related to war.
- His journey of trauma culminates in his discovery of skill through pinball, reflecting the search for meaning prevalent among the hippies.

Tommy's Experiences
- His traumas include physical and emotional abuse, compounded by his disability.
- Breakthrough occurs post a dramatic event (smashing a mirror), symbolizing a revelation and newfound abilities.
Cultural Impact of Tommy
- As his abilities shine, Tommy emerges as a leader for a generation seeking faith and identity, mirroring the search for community and belief systems among the youth of the 60s.
Climax and Conclusion
- His rise culminates in demands from followers, showcasing the struggle between personal faith and communal beliefs.
- Ultimately, this leads to a tragic outcome reflecting the challenges inherent in seeking faith amid societal pressures.

The hippie movement's exploration of faith and spirituality radically changed music and cultural narratives.
Both Jesus Christ Superstar and Tommy reflect a deep search for meaning and community among youth during a chaotic time, ultimately weaving religion into the tapestry of rock music.
These pieces demonstrate the lasting impact of psychedelia on music and the broader cultural landscape of the time, emphasizing how music became a vehicle for exploring complex themes of faith, identity, and communal suffering.