Jimi Hendrix's Milestones
Birth
Johnny Allen Hendrix was born in Seattle, Washington, to Lucille Jeter and Al Hendrix. His name was later changed to James Marshall Hendrix.
Early childhood
Grew up in poverty in Seattle, often staying with relatives when his father Al was away in the Army during World War II.
First guitar
Received his first guitar, a right-handed acoustic guitar that he played left-handed and upside down.
High school years
Attended Garfield High School in Seattle, where he played in several bands and developed his musical skills.
Army service
Enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the 101st Airborne Division, where he met bassist Billy Cox.
First professional band
Began playing professionally in various R&B and soul acts, including the Isley Brothers and Little Richard.
Moved to New York
Moved to New York City and played in various bands in Harlem, developing his unique style and stage presence.
Greenwich Village scene
Played in Greenwich Village clubs under the name Jimmy James, forming Jimmy James and the Blue Flames.
Discovered by Chas Chandler
Discovered by Chas Chandler (former bassist of The Animals) who brought him to London to form a new band.
Moved to London
Moved to London and formed the Jimi Hendrix Experience with Noel Redding and Mitch Mitchell.
The Jimi Hendrix Experience formed
Formed the Jimi Hendrix Experience, which would become one of the most influential rock bands of all time.
Hey Joe single
Released 'Hey Joe,' his first single, which reached #6 on the UK charts and established him as a rising star.
Purple Haze
Released 'Purple Haze,' which became one of his most famous songs and a defining track of psychedelic rock.
Are You Experienced album
Released debut album 'Are You Experienced,' which revolutionized rock music with its innovative guitar techniques.
Monterey Pop Festival
Delivered a legendary performance at Monterey Pop Festival, famously burning his guitar and gaining international fame.
Axis: Bold as Love
Released second album 'Axis: Bold as Love,' showcasing further development of his psychedelic sound.
Electric Ladyland
Released double album 'Electric Ladyland,' which included classics like 'All Along the Watchtower' and 'Voodoo Child.'
Experience disbanded
The original Jimi Hendrix Experience disbanded after their final performance at the Denver Pop Festival.
Woodstock Festival
Performed at Woodstock, delivering an iconic rendition of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' that became a symbol of the era.
Band of Gypsys
Formed Band of Gypsys with Billy Cox and Buddy Miles, exploring funk and R&B influences.
Electric Lady Studios
Opened Electric Lady Studios in New York City, his own state-of-the-art recording facility.
Isle of Wight Festival
Performed at the Isle of Wight Festival, one of his final major performances.
Final performance
Gave his final performance at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club in London with Eric Burdon and War.
Death
Found dead in London at age 27 from barbiturate-related asphyxia, joining the infamous '27 Club.'
The Cry of Love
Posthumous album 'The Cry of Love' was released, compiled from his final recording sessions.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, recognized as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Rolling Stone ranking
Ranked #1 on Rolling Stone's list of '100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time,' cementing his legendary status.