James Marshall "Jimi" Hendrix was unquestionably one of the iconic figures of the music industry during the 1970s. Like other doomed rebels of his generation such as Janis Joplin and Jim Morrison, he died way too young at 27 years old on September 18, 1970. He left a legacy of exceptional work - and some puzzling mysteries as well. An article in Grunge points out that he supposedly aspirated his own vomit because he was under the influence. One supposition is that he may have taken his own life. Another theory is that Hendrix was given an overload of wine by his manager "because Hendrix was worth more dead than alive."
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Hendrix Seemed Adrift During The Final Year Of His Life
He Appeared Directionless In Spite Of His Success
Hendrix was floundering during the final phase of his life, pondering directions to go in but never settling on one that worked. His life was in constant flux. For example, the members of his band kept changing. Hendrix wanted to end his connection with his manager, Michael Jeffery, (Jeffery died in a plane crash three years after Hendrix' death.) He tried dealing with a new producer but that fizzled.
The guitarist thought he would make a switch from rock to blues. He confided to his girlfriend that he wished to take some time off, then pick up the acoustic guitar. Devoting himself exclusively to writing songs was a possibility. Encountering Mike Nesmith of the Monkees, Hendrix allegedly said that he was thinking of doing R&B.
He had many avenues to pick from, but seemed perplexed as to which one held the most viability. Then Hendrix simply ran out of time and spiraled out of control.
Jimi Hendrix Was Arrested In Canada In 1969
He Was North Of The Border To Give A Concert
Per the outlet, "At the airport earlier that day, Hendrix was found to have a bottle in his bag containing three packets of heroin and a pipe with hash residue in it. He was arrested, facing two counts that could get him seven years in jail each." He was tried and found not guilty in December 1969.
Hendrix had nine months left to live. The clock was ticking.
He Toured To The Point Of Exhaustion
After Playing At Woodstock In 1969, Hendrix Took A Break, Then Resumed A Punishing Schedule
Traveling from Sweden to Hawaii to Georgia, he must have been spent, creatively and physically. Few could handle such a demanding round of concerts and moving from place to place. The grind wore him down. Per the outlet, "He played some iconic and disastrous shows during this period, and those around him could tell the effort required was taking a toll."
There Were Many Ups And Downs During Jimi Hendrix's Last Months
His Life Was Unpredictble And Unsustainable
Hendrix was dealing with numerous girlfriends, allegedly was kidnapped, developed emotional and physical issues, consumed alcohol and drugs, and argued with his manager.
The story of Jimi Hendrix is filled with professional accomplishments and heartbreaking anguish. He was definitely a troubled genius.
