At times Jimi Hendrix just toys with blues riffs and pentatonic scales, which by themselves are not earth-shattering. This is countered with sounds that are both diverse and unusual-like the opening of one of his compositions with speech distorted by tape speed, which he called “a sounding painting of heaven”. However, there is something about Jimi’s approach to those blues riffs and pentatonic scales (the secret is in his varied timbre) which elevates his music to another realm of expression. There are many recorded examples of Jimi’s music displaying his ingenuity and extraordinary talent. The following three will give you a taste of his gift. As you listen, list any characteristics or unique aspects present in these recordings. Please include information from Friedlander’s extensive entry on Hendrix. The various
timbres (colors of sound) Jimi produces from his guitar transform the instrument, allowing it to become just about anything from wails and groans to machinery and industrial noise.
Listen, describe, and respond to each of the following recordings/videos of Jimi Hendrix:
Voodoo Child (Slight Return) – from Electric Ladyland (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
All Along The Watchtower – from Electric Ladyland (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
The Star-Spangled Banner – from Woodstock (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
Foxy Lady – The Jimi Hendrix Experience Live at Miami Pop 1968 (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.