Jimi Hendrix, the iconic guitarist of the 1960s, is renowned for his groundbreaking and innovative approach to the electric guitar. One of the most enduring myths and captivating aspects of Hendrix’s legend is his ability to play the guitar upside down. In this comprehensive article, we’ll delve into the truth behind this legend, explore how Hendrix developed this unique style, and discuss the impact it had on the world of music.
The Stratocaster Turned Upside Down:
Jimi Hendrix was naturally left-handed, meaning he preferred to use his left hand for fretting the guitar’s neck. However, his early experiences with guitars were often limited to right-handed instruments, which were far more prevalent at the time. Rather than conforming to standard playing techniques, Hendrix boldly adapted to the tools available to him.
In his early years as a guitarist, Hendrix primarily played a right-handed Fender Stratocaster, which he strung upside down to accommodate his left-handed playing style. This decision led to several notable characteristics of his guitar technique:
1. Left-Handed Fretting: Despite playing a right-handed guitar upside down, Hendrix fretted the strings with his left hand, just as a typical left-handed guitarist would. This contributed to his distinctive approach to bends, vibrato, and chord voicings.
2. Unique String Bending: Hendrix’s string bending techniques were influenced by his unconventional guitar setup. Bending strings toward the floor (as opposed to the ceiling, as right-handed players typically do) resulted in distinctive pitch bends that became a hallmark of his style.
3. Chord Voicings: Hendrix’s upside-down guitar playing led to the creation of unique chord voicings and inversions. His chords often featured different tonal colors and interval structures compared to standard right-handed chords.
4. Whammy Bar Techniques: Hendrix’s use of the whammy bar (tremolo arm) was another aspect of his playing that was influenced by his inverted guitar setup. He employed it to create distinctive dive bombs, pitch shifts, and other sonic effects.
The Impact on Music:
Jimi Hendrix’s unorthodox approach to the guitar had a profound impact on the world of music. His groundbreaking techniques and sonic innovations redefined the possibilities of the instrument. Some key aspects of his influence include:
1. Expanding the Guitar’s Vocabulary: Hendrix’s use of feedback, distortion, and unconventional techniques broadened the expressive range of the electric guitar.
2. Sonic Pioneering: Hendrix’s exploration of studio effects and manipulation of the guitar’s signal opened up new horizons for sound design and production in rock and blues.
3. Artistic Freedom: Hendrix’s willingness to break with convention and forge his path inspired countless musicians to explore their creativity and push the boundaries of their instruments.
4. Cultural Impact: Beyond music, Hendrix’s image and style became synonymous with the counterculture of the 1960s, making him an enduring symbol of rebellion and artistic freedom.
In Conclusion:
Jimi Hendrix’s ability to play the guitar upside down, despite being naturally left-handed, is a testament to his remarkable talent, adaptability, and determination. This unique approach not only defined his distinctive sound but also paved the way for future generations of guitarists to embrace innovation and unconventional techniques. Hendrix’s legacy continues to influence and inspire musicians worldwide, reminding us of the boundless possibilities of artistic expression through the electric guitar.
