"Woodstock Performer Melanie, Singer of 'Brand New Key,' Passes Away at 76"
Melanie Safka, the folk singer who rose to fame with her performance at Woodstock in 1969 and went on to produce a string of hits in the 1970s, has passed away at the age of 76. Known for songs like "Brand New Key" and "Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)," she was a gentle hippie goddess to the counterculture, singing about peace and community. Despite her success, she chose to prioritize family over stardom and continued to make music occasionally throughout her life.