Jimi Hendrix, unquestionably among the all-time most influential and revered electric guitarists, tragically died on this date in 1970 at age 27. The mere mention of Hendrix’s name evokes thoughts of his still unmatched ability to manipulate sounds from his instrument.
A true virtuoso in its purest sense, Hendrix not only mastered the electric guitar, but he also propelled it to the forefront of popular music, inspiring generations of disciples in his wake. The left-handed Hendrix famously played a right-handed Fender Stratocaster guitar strung and played upside down. That approach was one of many unconventional aspects of Hendrix’s groundbreaking style when it came to playing the guitar.
There are many examples of Hendrix’s still-mesmerizing skills from across his all-too-short career. While it will never be known just how far Hendrix could have taken the guitar had he not passed away 52 years ago today, and there is little doubt there was much more left for him to say, his concise body of work is nonetheless stunning in its display of musical mastership.
This edition of Sunday Cinema features video footage of the Jimi Hendrix Experience playing live in Maui on July 30, 1970. Backed by drummer Mitch Mitchell and bassist Billy Cox, the performance was part of the filming of the 1971 movie Rainbow Bridge. Taking place mere months before Hendrix’s untimely death, the Hawaii concert was the second-to-last Jimi Hendrix Experience show held in the United States.
Video footage of the Maui show was released in 2020. Officially shared excerpts of “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” and “Foxey Lady” previewed the concert film. From its familiar wah-wah intro through its blazing hot finish, “Voodoo Child” is particularly demonstrative of Hendrix’s expertise, captivating stage presence and singular showmanship. The island audience appears enthralled by the band, as Hendrix explodes riff after firey riff from his signature white Strat.
Both of the officially released clips, as well as footage of “Hey Baby” and “In From the Storm” can be viewed below:
https://www.facebook.com/ulysses.braga.7/videos/175993025748125
