Jimi Hendrix's Guitar Sacrifice
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The Monterey Pop Festival of 1967 stands as a cultural milestone, a convergence of musical legends, and a watershed moment for rock music.
Jimi Hendrix, already an extraordinary guitarist, embarked on a mission to establish his name in his homeland, the United States. However, the festival presented a unique challenge, as The Who had just delivered a legendary performance, threatening to overshadow Hendrix.
The rivalry between Jimi Hendrix and The Who's Pete Townshend was palpable. Both artists were determined to make their mark and capture the audience's attention.
This rivalry and the imperative to stand out would set the stage for one of the most iconic moments in rock history.
Hendrix recognized the need for something extraordinary. Turning to ancient rituals involving sacrifices to appease the Gods, he later explained, "I decided to destroy my guitar at the end of a song as a sacrifice. You sacrifice things you love. I love my guitar."
Hendrix's set at the Monterey Pop Festival became a spectacle in itself. As the chords of 'Wild Thing' filled the air, Hendrix dropped to his knees, somersaulted with his psychedelically painted Stratocaster, and then, during the song's chaotic climax, he set his guitar on fire.
A few final smashes sent the instrument into flames, and Hendrix tossed the charred remains into the crowd.
This fiery conclusion to his Monterey set transformed Jimi Hendrix and The Experience into instant American superstars. While the fractures in the group became apparent over time, for that brief moment, Jimi Hendrix became the undisputed guitar hero of Monterey Pop and a symbol of psychedelic rock.
The man behind the lens capturing this historic moment was photographer Ed Caraeff. His photograph has since been considered one of the most iconic images in rock and roll history.
Originally shot in black and white, the photograph received Ed Caraeff's approval to be colorized by Jann Wenner for the cover of Rolling Stone Magazine in 1987, marking the 20th anniversary of the legendary festival that introduced Hendrix to the world.
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