Seattle-born guitarist, songwriter and singer Jimi Hendrix soared to the very top rank of all guitarists quickly after arriving in London at the height of the British Blues boom. Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page stood back in amazement while Eric Clapton, a god of the guitar at the time was destroyed by the brilliance of this quixotic presence and never recovered. Later, Hendrix, riding his success back to the US saw his energy and experimentation bring accolades from industry and audiences alike. At Woodstock his rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner was a defiant burst of electric glamour that reached back to the field holler of the blues, and forward to the roots of modern rock. His drug-related death in September 1970 was a shock, but the influence of Jimi Hendrix burns ever brighter, his reputation growing with each new generation.

This new illustrated book is a timely introduction for the 50th anniversary of his death in September 1970. It covers his early years as a jobbing musician, recordings, live performances and offers a gallery of striking images.

Hugh Fielder can remember the 1960s even though he was there. He can remember the 1970s and 1980s because he was at Sounds magazine (RIP) and the 1990s because he was editor of Tower Records’ TOP magazine. He has shared a spliff with Bob Marley, a glass of wine with David Gilmour, a pint with Robert Plant, a cup of tea with Keith Richards and a frosty stare with Axl Rose. He has watched Mike Oldfield strip naked in front of him and Bobby Womack fall asleep while he was interviewing him.