The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame described him as “arguably the greatest instrumentalist in the history of rock music.”
Rolling Stone ranked him first on its list of the “100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time,” and sixth on its list of the “100 Greatest Artists of All Time.”
At the recent South by Southwest music festival in Austin, TX, Jimi Hendrix received another honor when the Postal Service™ added him to its Music Icons stamp series. Hendrix joined music legends Johnny Cash, Ray Charles and Lydia Mendoza, who were previously honored with stamps. Janis Joplin will be added to the series later this year.
I was in the 8th grade when Hendrix performed a stunning solo version of the “Star-Spangled Banner” at the Woodstock Festival. To this day, I believe it was one of the greatest instrumental performances ever of our national anthem.
Without question, Hendrix was one of the most important musicians of the 20th century. Combining influences from rock, jazz, soul and the blues with his own innovations, he created a unique sound and style that continue to inspire musicians and win new fans.
The Jimi Hendrix Experience was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1992 and the U.K. Music Hall of Fame in 2005. In 1993, Hendrix was awarded a posthumous Grammy for lifetime achievement.
In his short career, Hendrix — through his mastery of the guitar and use of controlled feedback as a melodic element — revolutionized and redefined popular music. His music sounds as innovative and fresh today as when it was first released.
And now his legacy will live on courtesy of the U.S. Mail® too.