It has been 49 years since legendary singer / guitarist Jimi
Hendrix passed away. He was just 27 when he overdosed on a mix barbiturates
and alcohol in 1970.
Over the course of his short life and career, Hendrix had a
huge impact on music. His guitar work and compositions, and in particular his
use of the wah-wah pedal and effects like distortion and feedback, were nothing
but revolutionary for a time when hard rock and psychedelia were starting to
come into their own. More than five decades later, Hendrix’s music is still
influencing artists and inspiring new fans around the world in a multitude of
genres.
To honor the life of Jimi Hendrix, Vinyl Bay 777, Long
Island’s music outlet, is taking a look back at the revolutionary guitarist’s
most iconic songs. Here are six that helped change the trajectory of rock music
forever.
1.
“Purple Haze”: Rolling Stone’s number two
greatest guitar song of all time and Q Magazine’s number one, “Purple Haze”
became Hendrix’s signature song. It’s lyrical hook, “‘Scuse me while I kiss the
sky,” and its accompanying guitar riff, as well as his usage of the 7#9 chord (dubbed
the “Hendrix chord”) are iconic pieces of rock history. Released on his debut
album, ‘Are You Experienced?,’ it was the echoes,
harmonics and effects that Hendrix added post-initial recording that made
the track stand out.
2.
“All Along The Watchtower”: Originally written
and recorded by Bob Dylan, Hendrix’s version of “All Along The Watchtower”
ended up overshadowing the original. Dylan didn’t seem to mind, as he has said that
Hendrix’s version “overwhelmed” him and in turn influenced the way that he
played the song from then on.
3.
“The Star-Spangled Banner”: Performed live at
the Woodstock Festival in 1969, Hendrix’s performance of the “Star-Spangled
Banner” was nothing short of stunning. His rendition was both a proclamation of
love for his country as well as a political statement about the Viet Nam War.
People have likened
the sounds he made with his guitar to those of gunfire and “bombs bursting
in air.” He didn’t need to put words to it, as the playing was powerful enough
on its own.
4.
“Foxy Lady”: Another iconic rock track, “Foxy
Lady” takes Hendrix’s usage of feedback and brings it into a blues setting. All Music
calls his vocals “full of passion and desire,” while it’s “howling guitar”
gives it “dynamism and vitality.”
5.
“Hey Joe”: Originally written by Billy Roberts
in 1962, Hendrix’s slowed down, Tim Rose-inspired version became the most
well-known recording of the song. It gave him his first top 10 U.K. single. The
amount of personality
Hendrix exuded in the recording was infectious, which was one of the factors
that made him so popular in the years to follow.
6.
“Voodoo Child (Slight Return)”: Hendrix’s only
British number one single, “Voodoo Child” is considered by many to be one
of the greatest
songs ever recorded. The song is a take on Muddy Waters’ “Rolling Stone”
lasting 15 minutes and featuring some of his most impressive
effects work. It was the product of a late night jam session, but ended up
being recorded for his third album, ‘Electric Ladyland.’
Jimi Hendrix’s iconic guitar style and compositions have
been a big influence in rock for more than five decades. His most iconic
singles paint a picture of his talent, showcasing his futuristic use of effects
and distortions. Gone too soon, Hendrix’s music remains as influential as it
was when it first came out and will be for decades to come.
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Find music from Jimi Hendrix and more iconic artists at Vinyl
Bay 777. As Long Island’s top new independent record shop, we have thousands of
titles to choose from in a variety of genres. Browse our wide selection of new
and used vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, music DVDs, memorabilia and more in
store at our Plainview location or online at vinylbay777.com. With more titles
being added all the time, you never know what you might find at Vinyl Bay 777.
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