Although spending a short time in the music industry before his death, Jimi Hendrix proved himself to be one of the top guitarists in the world. Having worked with stars like Little Richard, Hendrix also started his own band. Throughout his time in the studio, the Jimi Hendrix Experience released songs like “Hey Joe” and “The Wind Cries Mary.” Due to his legacy and contributions to music, the musician received a spot in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in the 1990s. While solidifying himself as an icon, back in February 1959, Hendrix walked on the stage for the first time.
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Getting a chance to perform at the Temple De Hirsch Sinai synagogue in Seattle, Hendrix jumped at the chance even though he was only 16 years old. At the time, those in attendance had no idea they were listening to a performer who would later be considered one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Before helping inspire other greats like Ace Frehley, Rickie Faulkner, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and even Kirk Hammett, Hendrix found himself in trouble with the law. Not wanting to spend time behind bars, the musician decided to join the military in 1961. Keeping constant communication with his father, Hendrix urged him to send his guitar to help pass the time.
Although making it through basic training and paratrooper training, Hendrix gained criticism for his military standards and was discharged under honorable conditions in June 1962. While not the greatest soldier, Hendrix eventually found his calling when taking the stage.
Frank Zappa Wanted Jimi Hendrix To Take His Talents Far Beyond The Guitar
With many considered Hendrix one of the greats, Frank Zappa once discussed what drew him to the musician. “Some of the really good things that Hendrix did was the earliest stuff, when he was just ripping and brutal. ‘Manic Depression’ was my favorite Jimi Hendrix song.”
Witnessing the true genius of Hendrix, Zappa believed the musician could go far beyond the guitar with a little help. “I thought what should be done, since he wasn’t musically literate, he couldn’t write it down himself, that he should be put in some sort of working relationship with somebody who could write his ideas. And have them scored for instruments other than the electric guitar. I think that would have been something worthwhile to do. But no, he was too busy doing other things to ever sit down and take that approach.”
Sadly, while living in London, Hendrix passed away from asphyxia in September 1970. He was only 27 years old.
(Photo by Roz Kelly/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
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