BERKELEY, Calif. -- Country Joe McDonald, the anti-war singer whose performance of "I-Feel-Like-I'm-Fixin'-to-Die Rag" at Woodstock in 1969 became one of the festival's most iconic moments, died March 7 at age 84 from complications of Parkinson's disease [1].

McDonald, born Joseph Allen McDonald on New Year's Day 1942 in Washington, D.C., grew up in El Monte, California, and co-founded Country Joe and the Fish in 1965. The band became a staple of the San Francisco psychedelic scene, blending rock with overt political commentary [2].

His Woodstock performance — particularly the "Fish Cheer," where he led the half-million-person crowd in spelling out F-I-S-H before launching into the satirical anti-Vietnam War anthem — remains one of the most famous moments in music festival history. The documentary footage captured McDonald in a fringed vest, guitar slung low, commanding the largest audience of his career [3].

"He had this ability to make you laugh and then hit you with the truth," said a fellow musician who performed alongside McDonald at several 1960s festivals [1]. "The 'Fixin'-to-Die Rag' wasn't just a song — it was a rallying cry."

McDonald continued performing and recording for six decades, releasing over 20 solo albums and remaining an active voice for peace and environmental causes. He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Kathy Wright, and their children Ryan and Emily, as well as a daughter, Seven Anne, from a previous marriage [2].

His death was confirmed by his wife through a statement issued by his publicist [3].

-- MAYA CALLOWAY, Berkeley