Jimi Hendrix's Milestones

Jimi Hendrix was an American rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter, widely regarded as one of the most influential electric guitarists in the history of popular music, who died at age 27.
1942

Birth

Johnny Allen Hendrix was born in Seattle, Washington, to Lucille Jeter and Al Hendrix. His name was later changed to James Marshall Hendrix.

Family November 27, 1942
1943

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.

Family January 1, 1943 - January 1, 1951
1957

First guitar

Received his first guitar, a right-handed acoustic guitar that he played left-handed and upside down.

Achievement January 1, 1957
1958

High school years

Attended Garfield High School in Seattle, where he played in several bands and developed his musical skills.

Education September 1, 1958 - January 1, 1961
1961

Army service

Enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the 101st Airborne Division, where he met bassist Billy Cox.

Career May 31, 1961 - July 2, 1962
1962

First professional band

Began playing professionally in various R&B and soul acts, including the Isley Brothers and Little Richard.

Career January 1, 1962 - January 1, 1965
1964

Moved to New York

Moved to New York City and played in various bands in Harlem, developing his unique style and stage presence.

Location January 1, 1964
1965

Greenwich Village scene

Played in Greenwich Village clubs under the name Jimmy James, forming Jimmy James and the Blue Flames.

Career January 1, 1965 - September 1, 1966
1966

Discovered by Chas Chandler

Discovered by Chas Chandler (former bassist of The Animals) who brought him to London to form a new band.

Career September 1, 1966

Moved to London

Moved to London and formed the Jimi Hendrix Experience with Noel Redding and Mitch Mitchell.

Location September 24, 1966

The Jimi Hendrix Experience formed

Formed the Jimi Hendrix Experience, which would become one of the most influential rock bands of all time.

Career October 1, 1966

Hey Joe single

Released 'Hey Joe,' his first single, which reached #6 on the UK charts and established him as a rising star.

Achievement December 16, 1966
1967

Purple Haze

Released 'Purple Haze,' which became one of his most famous songs and a defining track of psychedelic rock.

Achievement March 17, 1967

Are You Experienced album

Released debut album 'Are You Experienced,' which revolutionized rock music with its innovative guitar techniques.

Achievement May 12, 1967

Monterey Pop Festival

Delivered a legendary performance at Monterey Pop Festival, famously burning his guitar and gaining international fame.

Achievement June 18, 1967

Axis: Bold as Love

Released second album 'Axis: Bold as Love,' showcasing further development of his psychedelic sound.

Achievement December 1, 1967
1968

Electric Ladyland

Released double album 'Electric Ladyland,' which included classics like 'All Along the Watchtower' and 'Voodoo Child.'

Achievement October 25, 1968
1969

Experience disbanded

The original Jimi Hendrix Experience disbanded after their final performance at the Denver Pop Festival.

Career June 29, 1969

Woodstock Festival

Performed at Woodstock, delivering an iconic rendition of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' that became a symbol of the era.

Achievement August 18, 1969
1970

Band of Gypsys

Formed Band of Gypsys with Billy Cox and Buddy Miles, exploring funk and R&B influences.

Career January 1, 1970

Electric Lady Studios

Opened Electric Lady Studios in New York City, his own state-of-the-art recording facility.

Achievement August 26, 1970

Isle of Wight Festival

Performed at the Isle of Wight Festival, one of his final major performances.

Achievement August 31, 1970

Final performance

Gave his final performance at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club in London with Eric Burdon and War.

Career September 6, 1970

Death

Found dead in London at age 27 from barbiturate-related asphyxia, joining the infamous '27 Club.'

Other September 18, 1970
1971

The Cry of Love

Posthumous album 'The Cry of Love' was released, compiled from his final recording sessions.

Achievement March 1, 1971
1992

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.

Achievement January 16, 1992
2003

Rolling Stone ranking

Ranked #1 on Rolling Stone's list of '100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time,' cementing his legendary status.

Achievement January 1, 2003