Psychedelic Rock

Introduction to Jimi Hendrix

  • Influence: Jimi Hendrix is seen as the most influential rock guitarist in history.
  • Guitar Hero: In the 1960s, acknowledged as one of the first "guitar heroes" due to his fame as a guitar soloist.
  • Followings: Inspired a cult-like following among guitar players eager to replicate his unique style.

Early Career

  • Initial Bands: Hendrix played in various bands in New York before achieving fame in London.
  • Formation of Experience: Established the band Jimi Hendrix Experience in London with:
    • Mitch Mitchell - drums
    • Noel Redding - bass

The Jimi Hendrix Experience

  • Band Composition: A power trio, focusing on three instrumental elements:
    • Guitar
    • Bass
    • Drums
  • Instrumental Style: Hendrix combined rhythm and lead guitar techniques on a single instrument.

Major Works

  • Debut Album: "Are You Experienced" (1967)
    • Reception: Huge success in the UK and modest success in the US.
    • Chart Performance: Second on the UK charts only to The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band".

Live Performances

  • Stage Presence: Renowned for electrifying live performances.
    • Quote: Brian Jones of the Rolling Stones described Hendrix as "the most exciting performer I've ever heard".
  • Performance Style:
    • Left-handed guitarist playing upside down; had not switched to a left-handed guitar.
    • Preferential use of Fender Stratocaster.
    • Sound Variation: Unique sound due to the re-stringing for left-handed play:
    • Bright sound on the lowest string
    • Dark sound on the highest string

Performance Techniques

  • Innovative Guitar Playing:
    • Played guitar behind his back or over his head.
    • Played using his teeth on the strings.
  • Signature Style Elements:
    • Use of feedback
    • High volume performances
    • Employing the wah-wah pedal
    • Often stroked the guitar neck along the microphone stand.

Artistic Expression

  • Flamboyant Performances: Performances characterized as sexually aggressive and flamboyant.
    • Treated the guitar as an extension of himself, almost phallic in nature.
    • Engaged in rituals with his guitar, including praying to it or setting it on fire by performance end.

Notable Collaborations

  • Eric Clapton Performance: In 1966, shared stage with Clapton's band Cream at the London Polytechnic Club.
    • Impact of Performance: Clapton reflected that his life was changed forever after witnessing Hendrix's performance.