Paul Kantner founded Jefferson Airplane in 1965. The Airplane were the biggest rock group in America during the 1960s and the first San Francisco band to sign a major record deal, paving the way for other legends like Grateful Dead and Janis Joplin. They headlined the original Woodstock Festival in 1969 and, like The Beatles with whom they are critically compared, lasted a mere 7 years, though their influence and impact on rock music continues well into the 21st century. In 1974 Mr. Kantner created Jefferson Starship and again enjoyed chart-topping success. Paul and Jefferson Airplane were inducted into The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1996.