Jimi Hendrix’s career in the mainstream media lasted only four years. And in those four years, he managed to become one of the most influential electric guitarists in the history of music.
He started his career at 21 years old, after being discharged by the Army. He recorded his first singles in 1964, and made his first television appearance in 1965.
But it wasn’t until 1966, when he moved to New York City that Hendrix became one of the most famous guitarists of all time. New York City had a vibrant and diverse music scene, one that fit Jimi nicely. He was struggling to make a living there nevertheless, so he moved to London. And in Britain, he exceled.
Eric Clapton, one of the best guitarists of all time, has said that “Jimi played just about every style you could think of, and not in a flashy way”. He said that regarding Hendrix’s first appearance in Britain.
Hendrix died at the age of 27, fittingly joining the “27 club”. The club is famously known as the age many great artists die, including Janis Joplin.
