In early 1967, Jimi Hendrix was a relatively unknown guitarist playing the club circuit in New York City. But on April 16 of that year, he got a big break when he was invited to perform at the Mamas and Papas farewell concert at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.
The Mamas and Papas were one of the most popular bands in the world at the time, and their farewell concert was a major event. Hendrix was scheduled to perform a short set before the Mamas and Papas took the stage.
Hendrix's performance was electrifying. He played a mix of his own songs and covers, including "Like a Rolling Stone" by Bob Dylan and "Hey Joe". The audience was blown away by Hendrix's virtuosic guitar playing and his charismatic stage presence.
One of the most memorable moments of the show was when Hendrix played his version of "Like a Rolling Stone". He took the song to new heights with his improvisational guitar soloing. The audience was so enthralled by his performance that they gave him a standing ovation.
Hendrix's performance at the Mamas and Papas farewell concert was a turning point in his career. It helped to raise his profile and paved the way for his success later that year with the release of his debut album, "Are You Experienced?".
In a 2010 interview with NPR, drummer Mitch Mitchell, who played with Hendrix in the Jimi Hendrix Experience, recalled the performance: "It was incredible. The audience was just blown away. They had never seen anything like it before."
Hendrix's performance at the Mamas and Papas farewell concert is a reminder of his incredible talent and his impact on popular music. He was a true pioneer who changed the way the guitar was played.
