25 August 2010 (gig)
24 August 2010
Jimi Hendrix’s flat viewing was a surreal experience as we entered 23 Brook Street, a previous London home of the legendary 60s guitar pioneer.
Commemorating the 40th anniversary of Hendrix’s death this unique, new exhibition; ‘Hendrix in Britain’ was held at Handel’s House Museum, London and coupled with a preview of his top floor flat, it was an unforgettable event of musical history, etched on our memory.
Memorabilia of Hendrix included some exhibits never been seen before in the UK and new insightful recollections into the real life of the cult 60s icon.
His notorious Westerner hat, psychedelic dandy jacket, Gibson Flying V guitar commissioned by Hendrix in 1969 and named by him as the ‘Flying Angel’, handwritten lyrics, a humourous sketched self-portrait, his British work permit and death certificate are among his rarely seen relics on display. Posters, backstage passes, handbills, images and film clips are also included in this one-off exhibition.
On January 2 1969, when Hendrix moved into his flat with then English girlfriend Kathy Etchingham, he stamped his mark on the interior with red carpeting throughout, velvet turquoise curtains, Pakistani rugs bought from a local London trader, numerous amps, a yellow formica table and a door open to numerous guests.
Rock legend; Hendrix shopped at John Lewis, wrote lyrics on TWA (airline) headed notepaper, drank Mateus Rose and drove Kathy so crazy by giving his home phone number out to anyone that she installed a second line.
Commenting on her time spent with Jimi in their flat, Kathy said: “The flat was ideal for us – at the heart of London when the city was the centre of the music world. I am sure Jimi would be amused and flattered at sharing joint billing with Handel, another musical genius who chose London as his home away from home”.
Plans are being discussed to expand the exhibition and make it a permanent London feature if the funding can be met. For donations or funding, you can contact Sarah Bardwell at s.bardwell@handelhouse.org or phone on 0207 495 1685.
A truly memorable, unique Hendrix experience and definitely worth the trip……
