Interview with Al Hendrix: Jimi Hendrix's Father Reflects on the Life of his Son

In 2000, Al Hendrix, father of legendary guitarist, songwriter and musician Jimi Hendrix, sat down for an interview in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum's Jimi Hendrix exhibit. In this clip, Al Hendrix shares memories of his son, including Jimi's first interest in music and playing the guitar, Jimi's move to London, the first time he heard "Are You Experienced," seeing his son perform for the first time, hearing Jimi's version of "The Star Spangled Banner" and more.

[tamaracoburn]

I wrote a letter to Al in 1982 telling him how much I loved Jimi's music. I couldn't believe my eyes when I found a letter in my mailbox in June of 1982 from Al a very gracious man. He sent me a photo of him and Jimi standing next to a car in their drive way. I framed that photo and letter. It was stolen from me a year later. I was struck by the kindness of Al.

[pointpercent]

Dad classic quote: "I just got him this guitar... and he went on from there..."  

[brianszeszol]

That got to be something. The father of the greatest guitarists of all time. That's a ridiculously huge honor with the competition

[ColettaHughes]

You can see where Jimi got his mellow spirit from RIP

[Georgian]

You can see the love and sorrow in his Fathers eyes so deeply. Bless his heart and Rest In Peace Jimi Hendrix.

[timrobbins]

I played in a group in the late 70's, with a guy named Dennis Cross, who wrote Al Hendrix, telling him how much he loved Jimi's music. Well low and behold Al wrote him back, a pretty lengthy letter telling him a bunch of things about Jimi's life. Al was a very good and gracious man and was a very good father to the greatest guitarist that ever lived.

[evanelston]

The GREATEST GUITARIST to ever take a breath !!!

[brandoningram]

The way Jimi kept in touch with his dad even though he was on the road is really heart warming it shows that Jimi was still a kind and warm person and didn't let go of his roots. 

[Gkuljian]

His sketches were well done. Jimi was an artist, not just on guitar.

[jhavajoe]

So that's where Jimi got his sweet disposition-- from his dad. Glad his dad could see him on his rise to greatness. The most original guitar player, ever.

[lukewilliamsactual]

"I told him to do something original and he sure enough did." That's the understatement of the year!

*So this is the man who gave Jimi his first guitar* :)
This is how much we owe him.

[aremarkumade]

It's hard for me to concentrate on what Al is saying with Jimi playing in the background. Still awestruck by the man, 50 years later!

[CountryHouseGent]

No Father ever expects to out live his Son. Very sad.

[harryballs]

Thank you Al, from one blackman to another, you did a great job of raising a great son.

[spacemanpope]

His drawings as a young child we awesome!! RIP Jimi! You are the biggest influence on 3 generations of my family. Meet you on the next world...

[miloligons]

I was reading the hateful comments about his father and have to say, times are always hard for poor black families. The fact is his father sparked his interest with his first artistic tool.

[markmarsh]

I wish I could have met Al Hendrix and thanked him from the bottom of my heart for buying Jimi's first guitar.

[greypilgrim]

Even as a small child, Jimi still had that same bright smile and glow. You can just see he is special.

[robertmazur]

RIP

Honored to have met you and invited to your home Twice in April and MAY of 2000!