Enter Mick Jagger, the legendary frontman of The Rolling Stones, who has borne witness to an array of electrifying performances over his illustrious six-decade career. Amidst the galaxy of stars that graced the stage during his era, one name shines brightest. In a 2022 Classic Rock interview, Jagger emphatically declared that the musician who indelibly marked his soul was none other than the iconic American guitarist and singer, Jimi Hendrix.
Born in 1942 in Seattle, Washington, Jimi Hendrix was a musical prodigy whose brilliance transcended his peers. His career took flight in 1967, coinciding with the birth of The Rolling Stones. Initially, he lent his talents as a sideman to various artists. It was only when he decided to forge his path, creating The Jimi Hendrix Experience and Band of Gypsys, that he etched his name into the annals of rock history.
Hendrix’s meteoric rise met a tragic end in 1970 at the tender age of 27, sending shockwaves through the music world. Interestingly, Brian Jones, The Rolling Stones’ former guitarist, met a similar fate at the same age just one year earlier.
In Jagger’s own words, Jimi Hendrix was nothing short of extraordinary. He proclaimed, “I loved Jimi Hendrix from the beginning. The moment I saw him, I thought he was fantastic. I was an instant convert. Mr. Jimi Hendrix is the best thing I’ve ever seen. It was exciting, sexy, and interesting. He didn’t have a very good voice but made up for it with his guitar.”
This admiration serves as a testament to Hendrix’s ability to enthrall audiences with his extraordinary guitar prowess and stage presence. While his vocal talent might not have been his forte, his guitar skills were unrivaled.
Jagger went on to describe how Hendrix’s arrival on the British music scene was revolutionary. He said, “I didn’t know nothing. I just thought he had just come out of nowhere, and we just adopted him. In England, we felt like he was great and he wasn’t big in America.”
Hendrix’s debut in England was marked by a modest opening night at a local discotheque. Despite the limited audience, his performance left an indelible mark on those present, including Mick Jagger. The guitarist’s unique act and raw originality took the music world by storm.
Unfortunately, Jimi Hendrix’s career was characterized by brevity, spanning only three years from 1967 to 1970. His abrupt departure left a deep void in the world of music, with Mick Jagger and countless others yearning for more from this musical genius. Jagger eloquently expressed, “You can say a million things, I just thought that Jimi was a great guitar player. I thought he was the best of the most original and had a really original act. That’s all, man, I don’t know nothing about his business, whether it was a casualty. I wish he was still here.”
Jimi Hendrix’s distinctive style and innovative guitar approach continue to inspire musicians even today. His legacy is engraved in the very soul of rock and roll.
Mick Jagger not only had the privilege of witnessing Jimi Hendrix’s live performances but also formed a friendship with the American guitar virtuoso. Hendrix was known to be close to several British music legends, including The Beatles, The Who, and, of course, The Rolling Stones. Their camaraderie transcended the stage, adding depth to their connection.
The impact of Jimi Hendrix on the realm of rock music is immeasurable. His innovative guitar techniques and groundbreaking performances continue to inspire and influence generations of musicians. Hendrix’s unique blend of raw energy and technical skill set him apart as an unparalleled virtuoso.
In 1988, Mick Jagger embarked on a solo tour to promote his album “Primitive Cool.” His backing band included the renowned guitarist Joe Satriani, and their performances were nothing short of spectacular. Jagger’s setlist featured a range of songs, including covers of some of his favorite artists.
Notably, “Foxy Lady,” one of Jimi Hendrix’s signature tracks, made regular appearances in Jagger’s solo performances. The connection between the two legendary musicians transcended time and space, as Jagger paid homage to Hendrix’s enduring legacy.
It’s intriguing to note that in 1987, Mick Jagger performed “Foxy Lady” alongside the legendary guitarist Jeff Beck, another fervent admirer of Jimi Hendrix. Beck’s contribution to Jagger’s solo album, released the same year, showcased the lasting influence of Hendrix’s music.
“Foxy Lady,” originally released on The Jimi Hendrix Experience’s debut album “Are You Experienced” in 1967, remains an iconic rock anthem, and Jagger’s rendition paid tribute to the enduring allure of Hendrix’s music.
In the annals of rock history, Jimi Hendrix is celebrated as a true luminary. His electrifying performances and pioneering guitar skills continue to inspire musicians and captivate audiences. Mick Jagger, an icon in his own right, recognized Hendrix as the best he ever saw playing live, and his words pay homage to the enduring legacy of a true musical genius.
While Hendrix’s career may have been tragically short-lived, his impact on the world of music endures. In memory of Jimi Hendrix, we continue to celebrate his extraordinary contributions to the world of rock and roll.