When discussing the greatest guitar players in history, Jimi Hendrix is a name that stands tall above many. His innovative playing style, use of effects, and electrifying stage presence transformed how people saw the electric guitar. But to truly understand Hendrix’s legacy, one must examine the tools of his trade—particularly, the guitars he used to shape rock, blues, and psychedelia.
In this article, we explore the specific models Hendrix played, the modifications he made, and how his choice of guitar contributed to his sound and legacy. Whether you’re a fan, musician, or collector, understanding the guitars Hendrix used is key to appreciating the full scope of his artistry.
Fender Stratocaster: The Guitar Synonymous With Hendrix
Why the Stratocaster?
Jimi Hendrix is most closely associated with the Fender Stratocaster. Though he played several guitars throughout his short but legendary career, the Stratocaster became his signature instrument. Known for its contoured body, three single-coil pickups, and tremolo system, the Stratocaster allowed Hendrix to express a wide tonal range and incorporate unique playing techniques.
Hendrix first began using the Fender Stratocaster around 1966. From that point onward, it became his main guitar for both live performances and studio recordings. He was drawn to the Strat for its feel, balance, and versatility—qualities that allowed him to explore everything from delicate blues licks to aggressive feedback-laden solos.
Left-Handed, Right-Handed: A Unique Approach
One of the most iconic aspects of Hendrix’s guitar technique was his use of a right-handed Stratocaster flipped upside down for left-handed playing. At the time, left-handed guitars were hard to find, and Hendrix adapted by stringing a right-handed Strat in reverse order.
This flipping of the guitar created several unique tonal characteristics:
Pickup Orientation: The bridge pickup was slanted in the opposite direction, giving it a different tonal emphasis—less treble bite and a thicker, rounder tone.
Control Positioning: The volume and tone knobs were in a different place, affecting how Hendrix interacted with them in real-time.
Tremolo Arm Position: The whammy bar was on top, making it more accessible during play.
This unconventional approach is a big part of what gave Hendrix his signature guitar sound.
The Most Famous Hendrix Guitars
Let’s dive deeper into the individual guitars Hendrix used. While the Fender Stratocaster was his main instrument, there were several key guitars that played vital roles in his performances and recordings.
1. The 1968 Olympic White Fender Stratocaster (“Woodstock Strat”)
Perhaps the most famous guitar Hendrix ever played, the 1968 Olympic White Stratocaster is known for its appearance during his iconic performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at Woodstock in 1969. This Strat featured a maple neck and an alder body, typical of late-’60s models.
After Woodstock, Hendrix continued to use this guitar occasionally. Today, it resides in the Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle, Washington, where it remains a symbol of rock history.
2. The Black 1968 Fender Stratocaster
Another frequently used guitar, the black Stratocaster with a maple fretboard was used extensively in 1969 and 1970. This guitar was featured in multiple concerts and studio sessions, including the famous “Band of Gypsys” performance at the Fillmore East.
Hendrix used this guitar for its brighter tone and snappy response, which suited his funk-influenced playing during his later years.
3. The Monterey Pop Stratocaster
In 1967, at the Monterey Pop Festival, Hendrix famously set his guitar on fire. This was a hand-painted Fender Stratocaster, adorned with psychedelic artwork done by Hendrix himself. The moment became one of the most iconic images in rock history.
While the original guitar was destroyed, it remains immortalized through photos and stories, and Fender even released a limited-edition replica to honor it.
4. 1965 Fender Stratocaster (Black with Rosewood Fingerboard)
This early model Stratocaster was used during Hendrix’s rise to fame, including early gigs with the Jimi Hendrix Experience. The rosewood fingerboard gave it a slightly warmer tone compared to the brighter maple necks he used later.
It’s often seen in footage of Hendrix playing at the Saville Theatre in London and other early concerts.
5. Gibson Flying V
While Fender Stratocasters dominated Hendrix’s arsenal, he also occasionally played Gibson guitars, including the Flying V. This guitar was used during live performances of blues-heavy numbers like “Red House.” Hendrix’s Flying V was custom-painted with psychedelic designs, making it visually striking as well.
The Flying V had humbucker pickups, offering a warmer, fuller tone that contrasted with the brighter single-coil sound of the Stratocaster.
6. Gibson SG Custom
Hendrix also used a Gibson SG Custom, notably during a 1969 performance on The Dick Cavett Show. This guitar featured three pickups and a sleek white finish. Though not part of his regular guitar rotation, it demonstrated Hendrix’s interest in different tones and aesthetics.
7. Fender Jazzmaster and Duo-Sonic
Before his mainstream success, Hendrix was seen playing other Fender models such as the Jazzmaster and the Duo-Sonic. These guitars were used while he was backing artists like Little Richard and the Isley Brothers. Though not his primary instruments, they contributed to his evolving sound.
Modifications and Gear: Making the Guitar His Own
Hendrix didn’t just play guitars; he modified them. Working closely with his guitar tech, Roger Mayer, he altered various components to suit his playing style:
Custom Pickups: Many of his Stratocasters had hand-wound pickups for increased gain and sustain.
Strap Buttons: Moved to accommodate his reversed playing style.
Tremolo Setup: Adjusted for better responsiveness with Hendrix’s aggressive use of the whammy bar.
These small changes gave Hendrix a distinct feel and sound that other players found hard to replicate.
Amps, Effects, and How They Shaped the Guitar Tone
A complete analysis of Hendrix’s guitar setup must include his amp and effects chain. Hendrix relied heavily on Marshall amplifiers, particularly the Super Lead 100-watt stack. These powerful amps gave him the raw overdrive needed for his explosive tone.
He was also a pioneer in using effects pedals:
Wah-Wah Pedal: Heard in tracks like “Voodoo Child (Slight Return),” this added a vocal-like sweep to his guitar.
Fuzz Face: A distortion pedal that contributed to his saturated, buzzing tone.
Uni-Vibe: Used for a swirling, phaser-like sound on songs like “Machine Gun.”
Octavia: Created an octave-up sound, adding high-end sparkle and harmonic complexity.
These devices, combined with his unique playing style, made the Stratocaster an extension of his soul.
Studio vs. Live: Guitar Choices in Context
In the studio, Hendrix experimented more with his guitar tones. While the Stratocaster remained a staple, he occasionally used Gibson semi-hollow models and 12-string electric guitars to layer his sound.
He often double-tracked parts, combining the clean sound of a Strat with the darker, fuller tone of a Gibson. His versatility with different guitars allowed him to create textures that were years ahead of their time.
Legacy and Influence
Jimi Hendrix’s relationship with the guitar changed music forever. His innovative approach continues to influence generations of guitarists. Fender has released multiple tribute models, including the Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster, designed to emulate his unique flipped-setup.
Modern players like John Mayer, Gary Clark Jr., and even metal guitarists cite Hendrix as a primary influence—not just because of the guitars he played, but because of how he played them.
Where Are His Guitars Now?
Several of Hendrix’s guitars are housed in museums or private collections. The Woodstock Stratocaster is preserved at Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture. Others have been auctioned for enormous sums, underscoring their historical value.
Collectors seek Hendrix-related guitars not only for their celebrity connection but also for their role in shaping music history.
Conclusion
To Jimi Hendrix, the guitar was not just a tool—it was a vessel for expression, rebellion, and spiritual freedom. His use of the Fender Stratocaster, along with select models from Gibson and other brands, allowed him to tap into sonic realms few had imagined.
Hendrix didn’t just play the guitar—he revolutionized it. Every note, bend, and burst of feedback told a story. Every Stratocaster he flipped upside down became a statement. For fans, musicians, and historians alike, understanding what guitar Hendrix played is more than a gear inquiry—it’s a step into the world of a musical genius who changed the landscape of rock forever.
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