The Journey of Jimi Hendrix’s Legendary Black Stratocaster
One of the most intriguing discussions in the world of music connoisseurs revolves around the ownership and whereabouts of Jimi Hendrix's legendary black Stratocaster guitar. It is a question that has persisted for decades, as fans and enthusiasts wonder which guitar was the one played during the iconic performances that have solidified Jimi Hendrix as a rock legend.
Who Owns Jimi Hendrix’s Black Stratocaster?
The current owner of Jimi Hendrix's black Stratocaster is the Experience Music Project Museum in Seattle, Washington. This museum, which stands as a testament to the legacy of various musical giants, now houses this iconic guitar, alongside other artifacts from Hendrix's remarkable career.
The Other Stratocasters
While the black Stratocaster is the most famous, it's worth noting that judgments about the ownership of the other guitars Hendrix played can vary widely. The Pop Culture museum in Seattle is known to have the Woodstock Stratocaster, another significant item in Hendrix's legacy. It's uncertain who else may own the other guitars and where they currently reside.
The 2019 Auction: A Record-Breaking Sale
In June 2019, David Gilmour's 1969 black Stratocaster was sold at auction, fetching a staggering $3,975,000. The buyer, Jim Irsay, owner of the Indianapolis Colts, also purchased Gilmour's 1969 Martin D-35 for $1,995,000. Interestingly, Gilmour donated a part of the proceeds from the sale, amounting to $21,000,000, to ClientEarth, an environmental charity working towards combating climate change.
Myth and Folklore Surrounding Other Guitars
As guitarists... we dare not speak his name. The name you are referring to is of course David Gilmour. If you mention his name, he may appear, and then he will recount stories of his time with Pearl Jam, making you listen to every one of his tales. He owns the black Stratocaster - only he, who’s name we dare not speak... Superstitions and myths abound in the realm of rock legends, and the story of Hendrix's guitars is no exception. This unnamed guitarist has become part of the folklore surrounding the Stratocasters Hendrix played.
The Monterey Stratocaster
The Monterey Stratocaster's fate is just as enigmatic. While we can assert with certainty that none of the recently auctioned guitars are the ones seen in Hendrix's iconic performance photos, there is a slim possibility that one of the other guitars might have been a different unrecorded Stratocaster played by Jimi. However, until further evidence is presented, no one can say for certain.
Surviving Guitars in the Museum
MoPOP, the Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle, Washington, houses two of the best surviving Stratocasters that belong to Jimi Hendrix. The museum, established by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen, owns the white 1968 Stratocaster that Hendrix played at Woodstock and during other later gigs.
Another guitar in the collection is the one owned by the estate of Jimi Hendrix's longtime girlfriend, Monica Dannemann. This 1968 Stratocaster, serial number 22625 with a maple neck, is said to be his favorite. Uli Jon Roth, former husband of Monica Danneman, mentions there was an unsolicited offer of $9,000,000 for the guitar that was ultimately declined. An interesting fact is that Fender never referred to the guitar as "Black Beauty," as this was Jimi's personal name for it. Another black Stratocaster with a rosewood fingerboard that Hendrix played at Monterey is also present in the museum.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the journey of Jimi Hendrix's black Stratocaster is filled with mystery and intrigue. While we may never know which guitar was the true 'Black Beauty' that defined his performances, the discussions and stories continue to grow. One thing is certain; the legacy of Jimi Hendrix's guitars lives on through the stories and collectibles of those who have been inspired by his music.