Happy Birthday Jimi Hendrix: Covering The Legend Live

Today would have been legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix’s 73rd birthday had he not tragically died in 1970 at the age of 27. Widely considered one of (if not the) greatest guitar players to ever live, his innovative style and approach to the instrument continue to inspire a legion of fans to pick up an ax and attempt to elicit the sounds of their hero. Though Hendrix’s short career was halted while the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame member was still reaching his prime, the body of work he produced is among the most influential on popular music as we know it. In honor of the Seattle-born guitar god, we’re presenting a series of videos of live performances of some of our favorite artists playing Jimi’s signature songs.

First up is a ripping version of “Izabella” Phish played on December 30, 1997 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The Vermonters have also regularly played “Bold As Love” and “Fire” though Hendrix covers have become more and more rare over the years.

Next is supergroup The Word’s take on “Voodoo Chile” from their Jam Cruise 13 appearance back in January. Sacred steel master Robert Randolph and six-string specialist Luther Dickinson exchange blistering licks in this powerful performance at sea.

<

strong> Umphrey’s McGee were at the Tabernacle in Atlanta when they brought their sparsely played cover of “Who Knows” on October 28, 2011. UM has long incorporated tunes from Hendrix’s repertoire including “Power To Soul” and “Voodoo Child.”

Here’s footage of the Warren Haynes Band giving Hendrix’s “Spanish Castle Magic” a run through during an appearance at Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater.

Back on December 30, 2006 Widespread Panic welcomed vocalist Susan Tedeschi, guitarist Derek Trucks and keyboardist Mike Mills to join in on a cover of “Little Wing.” Check out the three guitar attack as Jimmy Herring and John Bell get in on the action.

Finally, two more takes on “Little Wing” conclude our cover tribute to Jimi Hendrix. First is high quality footage of Steve Kimock & Friends playing a gorgeous version of the Hendrix classic at  George’s Majestic Lounge on November 23, 2011. Following that clip is Phil Lesh & Friends giving “Little Wing” flight at Terrapin Crossroads back in September with virtuoso guitarist Stanley Jordan leading the way.

Rest easy, Jimi.