Inspiration: Jimi Henrdix

Hi there!

As I may have said before, music is a great part of what inspires me to do what I do, whether it's painting, writing, decorating or getting dressed in the morning. One of the artists who most inspires me is Jimi Hendrix, whom many people (myself included) consider to have been the best guitarist the world has ever seen. Sadly, Jimi died in 1970, only a few years after coming into prominence with his group, The Jimi Hendrix Experience.

Jimi has been one of my favorite musicians ever since my dad (visit his blog at http://www.russclewley.com/) introduced me to his music several years ago. In my opinion, he was more than a guitarist of astonishing creativity and skill. He was also a very honest and deeply soulful songwriter, a caring and genuine individual whose music reflected his great sensitivity and a rather fantastic dresser as well!

This is one of my favorite videos of Jimi, because I think many of those qualities are apparent here...

Jimi's music never gets old. Despite the fact that he only recorded for a few years, there is always more to discover because of his constant need for creative growth. He hardly ever played a song the same way twice, so even old favorites like the song in the video are available in several different versions of varying lengths and styles.

His undeniable natural ability made it easy for him to improvise and take a song in whatever direction his heart would lead him at the moment. He played his guitar with a level of genuine, intuitive emotion that was unparrelled, even in his own time. I think that kind of intensity and belief in what music can say and accomplish is totally lacking in most music today. It is because of artists like Jimi that I mostly listen to the music of earlier eras.

Thanks for reading!

Ashley