Jimi Hendrix was one of the most influential guitarists in rock and roll history. His unique playing style and innovative use of feedback and distortion revolutionized the way the guitar was played. Hendrix was also known for his eclectic taste in music, which ranged from blues to rock to jazz. When asked who he thought was the best guitarist in the world, Hendrix replied, “Eric Clapton is the greatest guitarist in the world, he’s got the touch, he knows where the notes are at all times.”.
Clapton is a British guitarist who has been active since the 1960s. He is best known for his work with the bands Cream, Blind Faith, and Derek and the Dominos. Clapton is also a successful solo artist, and he has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three times. He is widely considered to be one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Hendrix’s praise for Clapton is a testament to Clapton’s skill and talent as a guitarist. Clapton is a master of many different styles of guitar playing, and he is known for his bluesy licks, soulful solos, and innovative use of the wah-wah pedal. He is also a gifted songwriter, and many of his songs have become classics of rock and roll.
1. Influence
It is no secret that Jimi Hendrix was one of the most influential guitarists in rock and roll history. His unique playing style and innovative use of feedback and distortion revolutionized the way the guitar was played. However, many people are not aware of the fact that Hendrix was heavily influenced by other guitarists, including Eric Clapton, B.B. King, and Muddy Waters.
Of all the guitarists who influenced Hendrix, it was Clapton who had the greatest impact on his own style. Hendrix was particularly drawn to Clapton’s bluesy licks, soulful solos, and innovative use of the wah-wah pedal. Hendrix also admired Clapton’s showmanship and stage presence.
The influence of Clapton’s playing can be heard in many of Hendrix’s own songs, including “Purple Haze,” “Foxy Lady,” and “Voodoo Child (Slight Return).” Hendrix even went so far as to say that Clapton was “the greatest guitarist in the world.”
Hendrix’s praise for Clapton is a testament to Clapton’s skill and talent as a guitarist. Clapton is a master of many different styles of guitar playing, and he is known for his bluesy licks, soulful solos, and innovative use of the wah-wah pedal. He is also a gifted songwriter, and many of his songs have become classics of rock and roll.
The connection between Hendrix’s influences and his own playing style is a reminder that all great artists are influenced by those who came before them. Hendrix was able to take the influences of Clapton, B.B. King, and Muddy Waters and create his own unique sound that would change the course of rock and roll history.
2. Innovation
When Jimi Hendrix said that Eric Clapton was the greatest guitarist in the world, he was not only referring to Clapton’s technical skills but also to his innovative approach to the instrument. Hendrix himself was a pioneer in the use of feedback and distortion, and he used these techniques to create a new sound that was both unique and powerful.
- Feedback: Feedback is a natural phenomenon that occurs when a sound is amplified and then fed back into the input of the amplifier. Hendrix was one of the first guitarists to use feedback intentionally, and he used it to create a variety of different sounds, from soaring sustains to earsplitting squeals.
- Distortion: Distortion is another natural phenomenon that occurs when a signal is overdriven. Hendrix was one of the first guitarists to use distortion intentionally, and he used it to create a variety of different sounds, from a warm, overdriven sound to a fuzzed-out, saturated sound.
Hendrix’s use of feedback and distortion helped to revolutionize the sound of the electric guitar. He showed that the guitar could be more than just a rhythm instrument; it could also be a lead instrument capable of creating a wide range of sounds and textures.
Clapton was one of the first guitarists to embrace Hendrix’s innovative approach to the instrument. He used feedback and distortion to create his own unique sound, and he helped to popularize these techniques among other guitarists.
The connection between Hendrix’s innovation and Clapton’s playing is a reminder that all great guitarists are influenced by those who came before them. Hendrix was able to take the techniques that Clapton pioneered and use them to create his own unique sound. In turn, Clapton was able to take the techniques that Hendrix pioneered and use them to create his own unique sound.
3. Showmanship
Jimi Hendrix was not only a brilliant guitarist, but also a master showman. His stage antics were as legendary as his guitar playing, and he would often play his guitar behind his back, with his teeth, and even set it on fire. This showmanship was not just for entertainment value; it was an integral part of his musical expression.
- Connection to his music: Hendrix’s showmanship was not just a gimmick; it was an extension of his music. His stage antics helped to create a sense of excitement and energy that made his performances truly unforgettable.
- Influence on other guitarists: Hendrix’s showmanship had a major influence on other guitarists, including Eric Clapton, who said that Hendrix was “the greatest guitarist in the world.” Clapton and other guitarists were inspired by Hendrix’s innovative approach to the instrument and his ability to connect with his audience on a visceral level.
- Legacy: Hendrix’s showmanship is still remembered today as one of the defining elements of his legacy. He is considered one of the greatest guitarists of all time, and his stage antics are a big part of the reason why.
Hendrix’s showmanship was an essential part of his musical expression. It helped to create a sense of excitement and energy that made his performances truly unforgettable. His influence on other guitarists is undeniable, and his legacy as one of the greatest guitarists of all time is secure.
4. Legacy
The fact that Jimi Hendrix died at the young age of 27 only adds to his mystique and legacy. He is considered one of the greatest guitarists of all time, and his music continues to influence guitarists around the world. There are several reasons for this:
- Hendrix’s innovative approach to the guitar: Hendrix was a pioneer in the use of feedback and distortion, and he used these techniques to create a new sound that was both unique and powerful. His innovative approach to the guitar has had a major influence on subsequent generations of guitarists.
- Hendrix’s songwriting: Hendrix was also a gifted songwriter, and many of his songs have become classics of rock and roll. His songs are known for their originality, their emotional power, and their timeless appeal.
- Hendrix’s live performances: Hendrix was a legendary live performer, and his concerts were known for their energy and excitement. He was able to connect with his audience on a visceral level, and his live performances were truly unforgettable.
Hendrix’s legacy is secure as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. His music continues to influence guitarists around the world, and his innovative approach to the instrument has helped to shape the sound of rock and roll.
The fact that Jimi Hendrix said that Eric Clapton was the greatest guitarist in the world is a testament to Clapton’s own skill and talent. Clapton is a master of many different styles of guitar playing, and he is known for his bluesy licks, soulful solos, and innovative use of the wah-wah pedal. He is also a gifted songwriter, and many of his songs have become classics of rock and roll.
The connection between Hendrix’s legacy and his statement about Clapton is that both Hendrix and Clapton are considered to be two of the greatest guitarists of all time. Hendrix’s praise for Clapton is a sign of respect for Clapton’s talent and skill, and it is also a reminder of the high esteem in which Hendrix held Clapton.
FAQs about “Who Did Jimi Hendrix Say Was the Best Guitarist”
This section answers some of the most common questions about Jimi Hendrix’s statement that Eric Clapton was the greatest guitarist in the world.
Question 1: Why did Jimi Hendrix say that Eric Clapton was the best guitarist in the world?
Hendrix admired Clapton’s skill and talent as a guitarist. Clapton is a master of many different styles of guitar playing, and he is known for his bluesy licks, soulful solos, and innovative use of the wah-wah pedal. He is also a gifted songwriter, and many of his songs have become classics of rock and roll.
Question 2: What did Jimi Hendrix think of other guitarists?
Hendrix was influenced by many guitarists, including B.B. King, Muddy Waters, and Buddy Guy. However, it was Clapton’s playing that had the greatest impact on Hendrix’s own style.
Question 3: Is Eric Clapton really the best guitarist in the world?
Whether or not Eric Clapton is the best guitarist in the world is a matter of opinion. However, there is no doubt that he is one of the most influential and respected guitarists of all time.
Question 4: What are some of Eric Clapton’s most famous songs?
Some of Eric Clapton’s most famous songs include “Layla,” “Tears in Heaven,” and “Wonderful Tonight.”
Question 5: What is Eric Clapton’s legacy?
Eric Clapton is considered one of the greatest guitarists of all time. He has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three times, and he has won numerous awards for his music.
Question 6: What can we learn from Jimi Hendrix’s statement about Eric Clapton?
Jimi Hendrix’s statement about Eric Clapton is a reminder that all great guitarists are influenced by those who came before them. Hendrix was able to take the influences of Clapton and other guitarists and create his own unique sound. In turn, Clapton was able to take the techniques that Hendrix pioneered and use them to create his own unique sound.
Ultimately, the question of who is the best guitarist in the world is a matter of personal opinion. However, there is no doubt that Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton are two of the most influential and respected guitarists of all time.
Transition to the next article section:
The next section of this article will discuss Jimi Hendrix’s innovative approach to the guitar.
Tips on “Who Did Jimi Hendrix Say Was the Best Guitarist”
Here are a few tips on “Who Did Jimi Hendrix Say Was the Best Guitarist”:
Tip 1: Consider the context of the statement.
Hendrix made this statement in 1967, when Clapton was a relatively unknown guitarist. At the time, Hendrix was one of the most famous and influential guitarists in the world. His statement can be seen as a way of giving Clapton a boost in his career.
Tip 2: Remember that Hendrix was a huge fan of Clapton’s playing.
Hendrix was known to be a fan of Clapton’s playing, and he often praised Clapton’s skills as a guitarist. In a 1968 interview, Hendrix said, “Clapton is a great guitarist. He’s got a lot of feeling and soul in his playing.”Tip 3: Don’t take Hendrix’s statement too literally.
It’s important to remember that Hendrix’s statement was made in a moment of excitement. He was not trying to make a definitive statement about who the best guitarist in the world was. Rather, he was simply expressing his admiration for Clapton’s playing.
Tip 4: Consider other factors when evaluating guitarists.
When evaluating guitarists, it’s important to consider a variety of factors, such as technical skill, songwriting ability, and stage presence. There is no one definitive way to measure who the best guitarist is.
Tip 5: Enjoy the music of both Hendrix and Clapton.
Hendrix and Clapton are two of the most influential guitarists of all time. Their music has inspired generations of musicians. The best way to appreciate their greatness is to listen to their music and enjoy it.
Summary of key takeaways or benefits:
- Hendrix’s statement should be considered in context.
- Hendrix was a huge fan of Clapton’s playing.
- Hendrix’s statement should not be taken too literally.
- There is no one definitive way to measure who the best guitarist is.
- The best way to appreciate Hendrix and Clapton is to listen to their music.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
The debate over who is the best guitarist in the world is likely to continue for many years to come. However, there is no doubt that Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton are two of the most influential and respected guitarists of all time.
Conclusion
The question of who is the best guitarist in the world is a matter of opinion. However, there is no doubt that Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton are two of the most influential and respected guitarists of all time. Hendrix’s statement that Clapton was the greatest guitarist in the world is a testament to Clapton’s skill and talent. It is also a reminder that all great guitarists are influenced by those who came before them.
The debate over who is the best guitarist in the world is likely to continue for many years to come. However, there is no doubt that Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton are two of the most important figures in the history of guitar playing. Their music has inspired generations of musicians, and their legacy will continue to influence guitarists for many years to come.
