A humorous remark prompted the famous guitarist Jimi Hendrix to perform the first instance of pyrotechnics on his instrument, igniting his beloved guitar.
Jimi Hendrix Sets Guitar Ablaze at London's Astoria in 1967
On March 31, 1967, a momentous event took place at the Astoria in London. Rock legend Jimi Hendrix, known for his electrifying live performances, set his guitar on fire during a performance of the song "Fire". This historic act was not a spontaneous decision, but a result of a jest that turned into a reality.
Barry Altham, a journalist who had the privilege of interviewing Hendrix before his passing, jokingly suggested that it would be a shame if Hendrix couldn't set his guitar on fire to attract headlines. Hendrix's manager, Chas Chandler, took this suggestion seriously and asked their roadie, Gerry Stickells, to fetch some lighter fluid[3].
During the performance, Hendrix launched into the song "Fire" and doused his guitar in lighter fluid. In a thrilling display, he lit the instrument, creating a memorable spectacle that would become synonymous with Hendrix's iconic stage presence[1][3].
The idea of guitar burning was not new to Hendrix; he had previously set his guitar on fire in his adopted home city of London[2]. However, this was the first time he performed this act onstage. The security guard at the Astoria came onstage with a fire extinguisher and put out the guitar[1].
Despite the security guard's intervention, Hendrix's hands were burned during the performance, requiring hospital treatment later that night[1]. Hendrix himself acknowledged the pain he endured during his performances, stating, "Music makes me high onstage, and that's the truth. It's almost like being addicted to music. You see, onstage I forget everything, even the pain."[4]
This groundbreaking event marked the beginning of Hendrix's ritual guitar burning, which would only take place a further three times[1]. The first night of Hendrix's first major UK tour was a multi-artist, traveling roadshow package tour in support of the Walker Brothers[5].
This incident at the Astoria showcased Hendrix's innovative spirit and his willingness to push boundaries, making it a significant moment in the history of rock and roll.
References:
- Hendrix Burns Guitar at Astoria
- Hendrix's First Guitar Burning
- The Story Behind Hendrix's First Guitar Burning
- Jimi Hendrix on the Pain of Performance
- First Major UK Tour for Hendrix
Celebrities like Jimi Hendrix, known for their impact on pop-culture, often push the limits of entertainment. His innovative act of setting his guitar on fire during the performance of "Fire" at London's Astoria in 1967, became a defining moment in music history.
