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2024-09-22 08:21:10

Jimi Hendrix

Influential rock guitarist and singer
Influential rock guitarist and singer

Jimi Hendrix, a legendary guitarist, is considered one of the most influential musicians in the history of popular music. His innovative use of amplifiers and effects revolutionized rock music. He received numerous awards and accolades during and after his lifetime.

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1919-06-10
Birth of James Allen Hendrix

James Allen Hendrix, the son of Zenora and Bertran Philander Ross Hendrix, was born on June 10, 1919, in Vancouver, Canada, before later becoming the father of Jimi Hendrix.

1942-03-31
Marriage of Al Hendrix and Lucille Jeter

Al Hendrix married Lucille Jeter on March 31, 1942, in Seattle.

1942-11-07
Birth of Johnny Allen Hendrix

On November 7, 1942, Johnny Allen Hendrix, who later became known as Jimi Hendrix, was born.

1942-11-27
Birth of Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix, born as Johnny Allen Hendrix, was an American guitarist, songwriter, and singer. He is widely considered one of the greatest and most influential electric guitarists in the history of popular music.

1945-09-01
Al receives honorable discharge from US Army

Al, stationed in Alabama at the time of Hendrix's birth, was denied a military furlough for childbirth. His commanding officer placed him in the stockade for two months without trial. Al received a telegram announcing his son's birth while in the stockade. After his discharge on September 1, 1945, he went to Berkeley, California, to see his son for the first time.

1946-09-11
Name Change to James Marshall Hendrix

Johnny's father, Al, changed his son's name from Johnny Allen Hendrix to James Marshall Hendrix on September 11, 1946.

1950
First instruments

In 1950, Jimi Hendrix started his musical journey by emulating a guitar with a broom at Horace Mann Elementary School in Seattle, which eventually led to a request for school funding for a guitar due to concerns about psychological damage.

1951-12-17
Hendrix's parents divorce

Hendrix's parents divorced on December 17, 1951, when he was nine years old. The court granted custody of him and his brother Leon to their father, Al.

1957-09-01
Watching Elvis Presley in Concert

Jimi Hendrix saw Elvis Presley perform at Sicks Stadium on September 1, 1957, who was one of his main inspirations.

1958-02-02
Death of Jimi's Mother

Jimi Hendrix's mother passed away on February 2, 1958.

1959-02-24
Purchase of First Electric Guitar

On an unspecified date in 1959, Jimi Hendrix bought his first electric guitar, a white Supro Oark 1560S.

1959-10-01
First Acoustic Guitar

Jimi Hendrix received his first acoustic guitar, an old second-hand instrument purchased by his father for around $5.

1961-05-24
Enlistment in the Army

In May 1961, Jimi Hendrix enlisted in the Army and was granted the privilege to wear the “Screaming Eagles” patch for the paratroop division.

1961-05-31
Jimi Hendrix enlists in the Army

Given a choice between prison and joining the Army due to his involvement in car thefts, Jimi Hendrix enlisted on May 31, 1961. He completed basic training and was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

1961-08-01
First Electric Guitar

Jimi Hendrix acquired his first electric guitar, marking a significant shift in his musical journey.

1961-11-01
Formation of King Kasuals

Jimi Hendrix, while serving as a paratrooper in the army at Fort Ord, California, established the band King Kasuals with fellow soldiers to entertain troops.

1961-11-03
Formation of The King Casuals

On November 3, 1961, Jimi Hendrix formed the band 'The King Casuals'.

1961-11-08
Hendrix stationed at Fort Campbell

After completing basic training, Jimi Hendrix was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division and stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky on November 8, 1961.

1962-01-11
Hendrix awarded Screaming Eagles patch

On January 11, 1962, Major General Charles W. G. Rich awarded Jimi Hendrix the prestigious Screaming Eagles patch after completing his paratrooper training.

1962-06-29
Jimi Hendrix receives an honorable discharge from the Army

After facing criticism for his conduct and attitude in the Army, Jimi Hendrix was granted an honorable discharge on June 29, 1962, by Captain Gilbert Batchman. Hendrix later falsely claimed a medical discharge.

1962-07-02
Honorable Discharge from Army

Jimi Hendrix received an honorable discharge from the army after his service, marking the end of his military career.

1963-09
Formation of the King Kasuals band

In September 1963, Jimi Hendrix and Cox formed a band called the King Kasuals in Clarksville, Tennessee. Hendrix learned to play guitar with his teeth after watching another guitarist perform this gimmick.

1964-01
Jimi Hendrix moves to Hotel Theresa in Harlem

In January 1964, feeling he had outgrown the circuit artistically, Hendrix moved into the Hotel Theresa in Harlem, where he befriended Lithofayne Pridgon and won first prize in the Apollo Theater amateur contest.

1964-03
Hendrix records 'Testify' with the Isley Brothers

In March 1964, Jimi Hendrix recorded the two-part single 'Testify' with the Isley Brothers, marking his early ventures into professional music recordings.

1964-10
Hendrix leaves The Isleys and joins Little Richard's band

In October 1964, Jimi Hendrix grew tired of playing the same set every night with The Isleys and left the band. He then joined Little Richard's touring band, the Upsetters.

1965-02-24
Performance at Marquee Acts

On February 24, 1965, Jimi Hendrix performed at Marquee Acts alongside artists like Ike and Tina Turner, Sam Cooke, the Isley Brothers, and Little Richard throughout 1965.

1965-07-27
Hendrix signs first recording contract with Sue Records

On July 27, 1965, Jimi Hendrix signed his first recording contract with Juggy Murray at Sue Records and Copa Management. This marked a significant step in his music career.

1965-10-15
Jimi Hendrix Signs Three-Year Recording Contract with Ed Chalpin

On October 15, 1965, Jimi Hendrix signed a three-year recording contract with entrepreneur Ed Chalpin. This contract later caused legal and career problems for Hendrix.

1966-06-01
Jimi Hendrix Receives Honorable Discharge

Jimi Hendrix receives an honorable discharge after breaking his ankle during a jump.

1966-06-18
Jimi Hendrix Burns Fender Stratocaster

Jimi Hendrix burns his Fender Stratocaster on stage during a performance.

1966-09-24
Jimi Hendrix Signs Management and Production Contract with Chas Chandler

On September 24, 1966, Jimi Hendrix signed a management and production contract with Chas Chandler, who brought him to London and formed the Jimi Hendrix Experience. This marked a significant turning point in Hendrix's career.

1966-09-26
Johnny Allen Hendrix officially becoming Jimi Hendrix

On September 26, 1966, Johnny Allen Hendrix officially changed his name to Jimi Hendrix.

1966-10-11
Jimi Hendrix purchases Marshall amplifiers

On October 11, 1966, Jimi Hendrix acquired Marshall amplifiers after being introduced to them by drummer Mitch Mitchell. This marked the beginning of his iconic association with Marshall amps and his signature overdriven sound.

1966-10-13
First performance of the Jimi Hendrix Experience in France

On October 13, 1966, the Jimi Hendrix Experience performed their first show at the Novelty in Evreux, France. The performance was enthusiastically received and marked the beginning of the band's journey to success.

1966-10-18
Jimi Hendrix Experience's performance at Olympia theatre in Paris

On October 18, 1966, the Jimi Hendrix Experience performed at the Olympia theatre in Paris. This performance is the earliest known recording of the band and showcased their talent to a wider audience.

1966-10-23
Recording of 'Hey Joe' by Jimi Hendrix Experience

On October 23, 1966, the Jimi Hendrix Experience recorded their first song, 'Hey Joe'. This marked an important milestone in the band's musical journey.

1966-11-02
Recording of 'Stone Free' by the Jimi Hendrix Experience

On November 2, 1966, the Jimi Hendrix Experience recorded 'Stone Free', which was Hendrix's first songwriting effort after arriving in England. This marked an important milestone in the band's musical journey.

1966-11-08
The Jimi Hendrix Experience's residency at the Big Apple club in Munich

From November 8 to 11, 1966, The Jimi Hendrix Experience had a short residency at the Big Apple club in Munich, their first gigs in Germany. It was during this residency that Hendrix's iconic guitar smashing incident took place, shaping the band's stage presence.

1966-12-16
Formation of the Jimi Hendrix Experience

Jimi Hendrix and Chas Chandler fly to London to form the Jimi Hendrix Experience. Chandler becomes the manager and they decide to change James to Jimi.

1967-02-24
The Experience's first single 'Hey Joe' hits No. 6 on UK charts

On February 24, 1967, Jimi Hendrix's band, The Experience, saw their first single 'Hey Joe' reach No. 6 on the UK charts.

1967-03-12
Jimi Hendrix's performance at the Troutbeck Hotel, Ilkley, West Yorkshire

On March 12, 1967, Jimi Hendrix performed at the Troutbeck Hotel in Ilkley, West Yorkshire. The gig was stopped by the local police due to safety concerns as about 900 people turned up, exceeding the hotel's capacity.

1967-03-31
Jimi Hendrix sets guitar on fire at London Astoria

On March 31, 1967, Jimi Hendrix set his guitar on fire at the London Astoria after a dynamic performance. This stunt led to him being labeled the 'Black Elvis' and the 'Wild Man of Borneo' by London's press.

1967-05-01
Failure of 'Hey Joe' to reach Billboard Hot 100

The Experience's first U.S. single, 'Hey Joe', failed to reach the Billboard Hot 100 chart upon its release on May 1, 1967.

1967-05-12
Release of Are You Experienced in the UK

Are You Experienced was released in the UK on May 12, 1967, spending 33 weeks on the charts and peaking at number two, being prevented from reaching the top spot by the Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band.

1967-06-04
Hendrix opens show at Saville Theatre with Sgt. Pepper's title track

On June 4, 1967, Jimi Hendrix opened a show at the Saville Theatre in London with his rendition of Sgt. Pepper's title track, just three days after its release. The performance was attended by Beatles manager Brian Epstein, George Harrison, and Paul McCartney.

1967-06-10
Monterey International Pop Festival

In June 1967, Jimi Hendrix travelled back to America to play at the Monterey International Pop Festival, where he gained significant popularity and fame.

1967-08-23
Release of Are You Experienced in the U.S.

Are You Experienced was released in the U.S. on August 23, 1967, by Reprise Records, reaching number five on the Billboard 200.

1967-12-01
Release of Axis: Bold as Love

The second album by the Jimi Hendrix Experience, Axis: Bold as Love, featured innovative guitar techniques and psychedelic cover art. It reached number three on the US charts and showcased a new subtlety in Hendrix's work.

1968-02-01
Major US Tour Begins

The Jimi Hendrix Experience starts a major US tour with their first show in San Francisco.

1968-10-25
Release of 'Electric Ladyland'

'Electric Ladyland' is released by The Jimi Hendrix Experience.

1969-02-18
Final European Performances of the Experience at Royal Albert Hall

On February 18 and 24, 1969, the Experience played sold-out concerts at London's Royal Albert Hall, marking their last European appearances. The strained relations within the group led to the end of this lineup.

1969-05-03
Drug Possession Charges in Toronto

In May 1969, Jimi Hendrix was charged with drug possession at Toronto International Airport after authorities found heroin and hashish in his luggage. Hendrix claimed the drugs were planted by someone without his knowledge, and he was later acquitted of the charges.

1969-06-01
Woodstock Festival

During the summer of 1969, Jimi Hendrix participated in inspirational festivals like the Woodstock Music & Art Fair, where he delivered a memorable performance of the "Star Spangled Banner" with the Gypsy ensemble.

1969-06-29
Last Performance of the Original Experience Lineup at Denver Pop Festival

The last performance of the original Experience lineup, including Jimi Hendrix, took place at Barry Fey's Denver Pop Festival on June 29, 1969. The event was marked by police using tear gas to control the audience, and the band narrowly escaped in the back of a rental truck that was partly crushed by fans.

1969-08-15
Jimi Hendrix debuts Gypsy Sun and Rainbows at Woodstock

Jimi Hendrix performed at Woodstock in 1969 with his new band, Gypsy Sun and Rainbows, consisting of his old friends, delivering a memorable performance.

1969-08-18
The Jimi Hendrix Experience's Final Gig

On August 18, 1969, The Jimi Hendrix Experience played its final gig at the Denver Pop Festival, marking the end of the group at the peak of their popularity.

1969-12-31
Band of Gypsys New Year's Performances

Jimi Hendrix, Billy Cox, and Buddy Miles formed the Band of Gypsys and performed a series of shows on December 31, 1969, and January 1, 1970, leading to the release of the Band of Gypsys album.

1970-01-01
Band Of Gypsys formed

A trio formed by Jimi Hendrix, Billy Coz, and Buddy Miles plays at Bill Graham's Fillmore East in New York.

1970-01-28
Band of Gypsys final appearance at Winter Festival for Peace

Band of Gypsys, consisting of Jimi Hendrix, Buddy Miles, and Billy Cox, performed at a music festival at Madison Square Garden to benefit the anti-Vietnam War Moratorium Committee.

1970-03-19
Hectic Worldwide Tour

In March 1970, Jimi Hendrix embarked on a hectic worldwide tour to showcase his musical talents across different parts of the globe.

1970-04-28
Band of Gypsies Tour begins

Band of Gypsies Tour kicks off as Jimi Hendrix, Billy Coz, and Buddy Miles start touring after their performance at Bill Graham's Fillmore East in New York.

1970-06-15
First use of Electric Lady Studios

On June 15, 1970, Jimi Hendrix jammed with Steve Winwood and Chris Wood at Electric Lady Studios. The next day, he recorded his first track there, titled 'Night Bird Flying'.

1970-07-04
Performance at Atlanta International Pop Festival

Jimi Hendrix played to the largest American audience of his career at the second Atlanta International Pop Festival, with as many as 500,000 people in attendance.

1970-07-17
Jimi Hendrix's Disastrous Performance at New York Pop Festival

Jimi Hendrix's appearance at the New York Pop Festival was marred by drug consumption before the show, leading to a performance considered a disaster. This event highlighted the challenges Hendrix faced during his Cry of Love tour.

1970-08-01
Jimi Hendrix's Final Concert in the US

Jimi Hendrix's last concert appearance in the United States took place in Honolulu, Hawaii, marking the end of the American leg of his Cry of Love tour. This performance would be one of his final live shows before his untimely death.

1970-08-25
Official opening of Electric Lady studio

The Electric Lady studio officially opened for business on August 25, 1970.

1970-08-26
Grand Opening of Electric Lady Studios

Electric Lady Studios officially opened for business on August 26, 1970, with a grand opening party held the following day. The studio was a creative outlet for Hendrix and aimed to provide a relaxing environment for his music.

1970-08-31
Performance at Isle of Wight Festival

Jimi Hendrix performed as the headlining act at the Isle of Wight Festival on August 31, 1970, before leaving for England.

1970-09-02
Abandonment of performance in Aarhus

On September 2, 1970, Jimi Hendrix abandoned a performance in Aarhus after three songs, stating 'I've been dead a long time'.

1970-09-16
Last public performance at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club

Jimi Hendrix performed in public for the last time during an informal jam at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club in Soho on September 16, 1970.

1970-09-18
Death of Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix, the renowned guitarist and singer, passes away on this day.

1970-09-18
The Tragic Death of Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix suddenly died on September 18, 1970.

1970-10-01
Burial of Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix was laid to rest at Greenwood Cemetery in Renton, Washington on October 1, 1970.

1977
Release of First Rays of the Rising Sun

Throughout 1977, Jimi's family and his band finally released the LP set, the First Rays of the Rising Sun, in honor of Jimi's death.

1991-11-14
Hendrix receives star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

On November 14, 1991, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame was dedicated to Jimi Hendrix, recognizing his legacy and impact on the music industry.

1992
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction

In 1992, The Jimi Hendrix Experience was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

1993
MCA Records delays sale of Hendrix's publishing copyrights

In 1993, MCA Records postponed a major sale of Jimi Hendrix's publishing copyrights due to Al Hendrix's dissatisfaction with the deal. Al Hendrix insisted that he had retained veto power over the sale of the catalogue, leading to a delay in the transaction.

1995-07
Al Hendrix regains control of Jimi Hendrix's song and image rights

In July 1995, Al Hendrix reached a settlement that allowed him to regain control of his son's song and image rights. This agreement marked a significant turning point in the management of Jimi Hendrix's intellectual property.

1998
American Indian Music Hall of Fame Induction

In 1998, Jimi Hendrix was posthumously inducted into the American Indian Music Hall of Fame in its inaugural year.

1999
Rolling Stone and Guitar World Recognition

In 1999, readers of Rolling Stone and Guitar World ranked Jimi Hendrix among the most important musicians of the 20th century.

2000
Grammy Award for 'Purple Haze'

In 2000, Jimi Hendrix received a Hall of Fame Grammy award for his original composition 'Purple Haze', showcasing his innovative musical style.

2001
Grammy Award for 'All Along the Watchtower'

In 2001, Jimi Hendrix was honored with a Hall of Fame Grammy award for his recording of Bob Dylan's 'All Along the Watchtower', highlighting his unique interpretation of the song.

2005
UK Music Hall of Fame Induction

In 2005, The Jimi Hendrix Experience was inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame.

2006
Grammy Award for Axis: Bold as Love

In 2006, Jimi Hendrix's album Axis: Bold as Love was honored with a Grammy award, highlighting its impact on the music industry.

2009-08
Experience Hendrix signs licensing agreement with Sony Music Entertainment

In August 2009, Experience Hendrix announced a new licensing agreement with Sony Music Entertainment's Legacy Recordings division, set to take effect in 2010. This partnership paved the way for the Jimi Hendrix Catalog Project and the release of 'Valleys of Neptune' in March 2010.

2010-03
Release of 'Valleys of Neptune' under the Jimi Hendrix Catalog Project

In March 2010, Legacy Recordings and Experience Hendrix launched the Jimi Hendrix Catalog Project with the release of 'Valleys of Neptune'. This marked a significant event in the posthumous management of Jimi Hendrix's music.

2014
Jimi Hendrix Commemorative Postage Stamp

In 2014, the United States Postal Service issued a commemorative postage stamp in honor of Jimi Hendrix, celebrating his legacy as a music icon.

2016-08-21
Jimi Hendrix Inducted into Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame

On August 21, 2016, Jimi Hendrix was posthumously inducted into the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame in Dearborn, Michigan, recognizing his influence on the genre.

2019-06-23
Band of Gypsys Inducted into Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame

On June 23, 2019, the Band of Gypsys, a group associated with Jimi Hendrix, was inducted into the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame, recognizing their musical contributions.

2023
Rolling Stone names Hendrix greatest guitarist of all time

In 2023, Rolling Stone magazine named Jimi Hendrix the greatest guitarist of all time, solidifying his legacy and influence in the world of music.

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