Jimi Hendrix Died 50 Years Ago—Here Are His Greatest Performances

Jimi Hendrix didn't invent playing the electric guitar, but he took it to a level not seen before — and arguably never duplicated since his passing from a drug overdose on September 18, 1970, at only 27 years old. He was also a tremendous songwriter who created timeless rock classics, though he only released three studio albums. His live performances were legendary, and his "Star Spangled Banner" at the Woodstock festival is one of the most iconic concert moments in rock history. Here are ten of Jimi Hendrix's greatest songs:

The Wind Cries Mary (1967)

In 1967, the Jimi Hendrix Experience released one of the greatest debut rock albums ever with Are You Experienced. The album showcased Hendrix's songwriting and guitar playing on the psychedelic masterpiece "The Wind Cries Mary." The song shows off a Curtis Mayfield influence — which makes sense, as Hendrix had once played in Mayfield's backing band. "Curtis was a really good guitarist... I learned a lot in that short time. He probably influenced me more than anyone I'd ever played with up to that time, that sweet sound of his, you know."

Purple Haze (1967)

"Purple Haze" was a single in England, but it was included on the North American edition of Are You Experienced. The iconic guitar riff and Jimi's use of the fuzz pedal make the song a rock classic. Hendrix pushed the envelope for guitarists in using pedals and amps to discover new tones. On "Purple Haze," he uses an octave pedal called the Octavia, designed for him by Roger Mayer, and a Fuzz Face pedal.

“Jimi Hendrix is very important. He’s my idol. He sort of epitomizes, from his presentation on stage, the whole works of a rock star. There’s no way you can compare him. You either have the magic or you don’t. There’s no way you can work up to it. There’s nobody who can take his place.” —Freddie Mercury, Circus Magazine, 1975

Hey Joe (1966)

"Hey Joe" has been recorded by many artists, including the Byrds. but the Jimi Hendrix Experience recorded the best known version. The track was the first single for the Experience and was included in the North American release of Are You Experienced. "Hey Joe" was the last song of Jimi Hendrix's set at Woodstock, making it the closing song of the famous rock festival.

Fire (1967)

"Fire" was one of Jimi Hendrix's most popular songs and one he would usually play live. The song's lyrics have sexual overtones, but its origin story is actually quite G-rated: Hendrix and his bass player Noel Redding were at Redding's mothers house on a cold night. Hendrix asked her if he could stand by the fireplace to warm up, but their dog was already in that spot. Hendrix said, "Aw, move over, Rover, and let Jimi take over."

Foxey Lady (1967)

Full of amp feedback with an iconic guitar riff, "Foxey Lady" is one of Jimi Hendrix's signature songs. It was number 153 on Rolling Stone's "500 Greatest Songs of All Time."

Spanish Castle Magic (1967)