46 Years Ago: The Jimi Hendrix Experience Forms
On Oct. 6, 1966 the Jimi Hendrix Experience were born. Former Animals bassist Chas Chandler had caught a performance by Jimmy James & The Blue Flames while hanging out in New York City in the summer of 1966. Very impressed with what he heard and saw, Chandler convinced James (aka Hendrix) to come with him to England where he would manage his career and make him a star.
After arriving on U.K. shores in September, Chandler introduced Hendrix to bassist Noel Redding and drummer Mitch Mitchell, who would soon become the Jimi Hendrix Experience. Their first actual rehearsal took place on Oct. 6, 1966 which, call it irony or coincidence, was also the date that LSD was declared illegal in the U.S.. The band rehearsed for a week before hooking up with French pop singer Johnny Hallyday for a four-date French tour.
The impact of the Jimi Hendrix Experience in England was immediate. Fans, including fellow musicians such as Eric Clapton, Brian Jones, Jeff Beck and Pete Townshend, spread the word on this new musical force. By the time of the release of the band’s debut single, ‘Hey Joe,’ in December, Hendrix was fast on his way to becoming a legend.
Next: Top 10 Jimi Hendrix Songs
Leave a Comment