Janis Joplin’s Birthday: Fun Facts About The Late Singer

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Today would have been rock ‘n’ roll singer Janis Joplin’s 79th birthday. Born on January 19th, 1943, Joplin wailed her heart out through her music during the 1960s counterculture boom. Known for her free-spirited attitude, rebellious nature, and soulful songs, Joplin made an enormous impact on the world during her short 27 years. Tragically, on October 4th 1970 Joplin became a member of the 27 club when she passed away of an accidental overdose. Jimi Hendrix was already a recent member of the unfortunate club and The Doors’ Jim Morrison would follow shortly after Joplin.

To celebrate Joplin’s birthday here are some fun facts about the Queen Of Rock & Roll you may have not known:

She rejected Jim Morrison who seemed to be falling in love with her.
Her ashes were scattered into the Pacific Ocean and along Stinson Beach.
Some of her greatest influences included Bessie Smith, Billie Holiday, and Leadbelly.
Her wrist was tattooed with a design that represented women’s liberation.
The last piece of music she ever recorded was a birthday greeting for John Lennon titled Happy Birthday, John (Happy Trails), which he received after her death.
The album Cheap Thrills recorded by her band Big Brother & The Holding Company was supposed to be titled Sex, Dope And Cheap Thrills.
She called off her wedding to join Big Brother in 1966.
She loved painting, reading, and writing poetry.
She sang with Tom Jones on his TV show, This Is Tom Jones in 1969.
She continuously wrote letters to her parents throughout her entire life.