Born to two parents in Seattle, Washington in 1942 Jimi was given the name Johnny Allen Hendrix, but his name was later changed by his father to James Hendrix. He was continuously referred to “Young Jimmy” throughout his childhood. Hendrix became interested in music early on in his childhood.   

It was recalled by Hendrix’s father that he would ask “Young Jimmy” to sweep the entire house before he came home from work; instead he would come home to find straw all over the house from “Young Jimmy” using the broom as a guitar.

It was not until 1958 when Hendrix was 16 years old that his father gave him a five dollar acoustic guitar that was previously owned by a family friend. Not long after Hendrix formed his first band, “The Velvetones”, that Hendrix soon left to join the army. 

Not long after 1963, Hendrix was later given an honorable discharge after breaking his ankle after landing a parachute jump. After leaving the armed services Hendrix decided to seriously pursue his music career. He became a backup guitarist and often the lead guitarist for many headlining acts; Tine Turner, Sam Cooke, and Little Richard among others. 

In 1966 Hendrix found his way to London, England from the advice of his close friend Chas Chandler and with promises to be signed to a up and coming record label. Once in London Chandler assumed the role of Hendrix’s manager and publicist. Chandler suggested the name spelling change of Jimmy Hendrix’s name to Jimi Hendrix. With Chandler’s help Hendrix created the Jimi Hendrix Experience and became a Rock N’ Roll sensation seemingly overnight. 

 On September 18, 1970 Jimi Hendrix died in London from an overdose on barbiturates. Many conspiracies surround his death, and many more are still forming to this day. However, at the young age of 27 his influence on music, art, and politics was felt all over the world and can still be felt to this day.