Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix is a popular singer, songwriter, and guitarist. In the 1960s he was a huge hit and many people enjoyed listening to his experimental music.

In the Beginning

Jimi was born on November 27, 1942 in Seattle, Washington. As a teenager he learned to play guitar. His childhood was difficult since at times he lived with different acquaintances and relatives. Even for his age though, he wanted to grow up to be a rock star legend. His mother was named Lucille, and she was only seventeen when she had Hendrix. She had a rocky relationship with Jimmy's father, Al. She left the family after the birth of two more children. Jimi's younger brothers, Joseph and Leon. He would only see his mother from time to time until she passed away in 1958. Jimi found a sanctuary in music. He was a big fan of the blues, and when he was fourteen he saw Elvis Presley perform. The following year Jimi acquired his first electric guitar. He played with two bands, the Tomcats and Rocking Kings. He dropped out of high school in 1959. He continued to pursue music and worked odd jobs to support himself. In 1961, he signed up with the United States Army and trained at Fort Ord in California. He became a paratrooper, and even though he was a soldier. He was still able to find time to pursue his passion. He created his own band called The King Casuals. He served until 1962 and had to be discharged because of an injury. Once he was out of the military, Jimi continued to pursue music. He worked playing backup for performers like Little Richard. He formed another group of his own called Jimmy James and the Blue Flames. They played gigs all over New York City's Greenwich Village Neighborhood.

Most Known For

Jimi is well known for his experimental guitar playing. His skill on the electric guitar was legendary, and one of his best performances was at Woodstock in 1969. He performed “The Star Spangled Banner” in front of thousands of people. Helping to leave his mark on the rock music industry..

Where Are They Now

Despite his age, Jimi Hendrix left his mark on the music industry. His music is still popular and is still widely listened to today. His skill for electric guitar and experimental sound is legendary. Members of the Beatles even enjoyed Jimi Hendrix's music as well. Even though his stardom and music only lasted for a few years. It's still well remembered. Even a journalist wrote for the Berkeley Tribe stating: “Jimi Hendrix could get more out of an electric guitar than anyone else. He was the ultimate guitar player."    

Career Accomplishments

Jimi got his big break in 1966 when he met Chas Chandler. Chandler became Jimi's manager and convinced Jimi to join up with the other musicians Mitch Mitchell and Noel Redding. Together, they created The Jimi Hendrix Experience. Jimi began to build up a reputation among the England's rock royalty. In 1967, the band released its first single “Hey Joe”. It was a hit right off the bat and they had other hits like “Purple Haze” and “The Wind Cried Mary”. The went on tour to support their first album, Are You Experienced?, and audiences loved his guitar playing skill. He gave an amazing performance at the Monterey Pop Festival in June of 1968. The performance ended when Jimi lit his guitar on fire.