For the first time ever, a live concert of The Jimi Hendrix Experience from August 18, 1967, will be unveiled. This iconic performance happened at the Hollywood Bowl, California, a mere five days before their debut album, ‘Are You Experienced’, launched in North America.
While they had been making a buzz in the UK and Europe, this band was relatively new to the American audience. Interestingly, at the Hollywood Bowl, they were just the opening act for The Mamas & The Papas.
This legendary setlist showcased Hendrix’s hits like ‘Purple Haze’ and ‘The Wind Cries Mary’ and also featured covers of iconic songs like The Beatles‘ ‘Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band’ and Bob Dylan’s ‘Like a Rolling Stone’. Surprisingly, this 10-song marvel has never seen an official release or even appeared as a bootleg.
Come November 10th, 2023, fans can get their hands on ‘Jimi Hendrix Experience: Hollywood Bowl August 18, 1967’ in vinyl, CD, and digital formats, thanks to Sony Music.
Brian Ray, later known for his association with Paul McCartney and Etta James, was among the awestruck attendees at the Bowl. Reflecting on that night, he said, “Seeing Jimi Hendrix for the first time was astonishing. With his extravagant attire and unmatched stage presence, he was starkly different from The Mamas & The Papas. The way Jimi played the guitar was like a performance art – whether it was behind his back, with his teeth, or on his knees, it was breathtaking.”
“His performance embodied a mix of emotions – beauty, aggression, sensuality, and grace, all radiating from this one person. While my sister and I were completely taken by his charisma, the general audience seemed a bit reserved, perhaps trying to process the magic they just witnessed.”
