Did Jimi Hendrix walk around stage during soundcheck to find feedback ‘sweet spots’?
Did Jimi Hendrix Walk Around Stage during Soundcheck to Find Feedback ‘Sweet Spots’?
Introduction
The legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix is known for his innovative and groundbreaking approach to playing the guitar. Over the years, various claims and anecdotes have circulated about his performance techniques. One such claim suggests that Hendrix would walk around the stage during soundcheck, marking “sweet spots” with masking tape to find areas where he could achieve controlled feedback. In this article, we will examine the evidence surrounding this claim and explore the techniques employed by other guitarists to achieve similar effects.
Lack of Direct Evidence
Despite the widespread recognition and documentation of Jimi Hendrix’s performances, there is a notable lack of direct evidence to support the claim that he walked around the stage during soundcheck to find feedback sweet spots. No video footage or other concrete evidence has been found to confirm this practice. This absence of direct evidence raises questions about the accuracy of the claim and calls for further investigation.
Observations at Monterey Pop
One user on a forum mentioned watching a performance by Jimi Hendrix at Monterey Pop and noted the absence of markings on the floor. This observation suggests that Hendrix’s movements on stage were more spontaneous and intuitive, guided by his natural feel for the music rather than predetermined sweet spots. While this anecdotal account does not provide definitive proof, it adds to the skepticism surrounding the claim.
Similar Techniques by Other Guitarists
While the specific claim about Jimi Hendrix remains unverified, it is worth noting that other prominent guitarists have employed similar techniques to achieve controlled feedback on stage. One notable example is Robert Fripp, known for his work with David Bowie. Fripp would measure the distance between his guitar and the speaker for each note, determining where feedback occurred most effectively. Tape markings were placed on the floor to guide Fripp’s positioning during performances, ensuring he could hit the “sweet spots.” This technique demonstrates that such practices were employed by guitarists during that era.
Ted Nugent’s Technique
Anecdotal accounts mention Ted Nugent taping the stage during soundcheck to achieve feedback. However, these accounts lack solid documentation or interviews to provide substantial evidence of Nugent’s specific approach. It is important to approach these accounts with caution and acknowledge the need for further verification.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the claim that Jimi Hendrix walked around the stage during soundcheck to find feedback “sweet spots” lacks direct evidence to support its validity. While observations from a user at Monterey Pop suggest a more spontaneous approach to stage movement, it is important to recognize that other guitarists like Robert Fripp and Ted Nugent have employed similar techniques to achieve controlled feedback. Further research and evidence are necessary to conclusively determine whether Hendrix employed this particular practice.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there any evidence to support the claim that Jimi Hendrix walked around the stage during soundcheck to find feedback “sweet spots”?
Currently, there is no direct evidence, such as video footage, to support this claim. The lack of concrete evidence raises doubts about its validity.
Did anyone observe Jimi Hendrix marking the “sweet spots” on the stage during his performances?
One user on a forum mentioned watching a performance by Hendrix at Monterey Pop and not observing any markings on the floor. This observation suggests that Hendrix’s movements on stage were more spontaneous and intuitive, rather than based on predetermined sweet spots.
Were similar techniques used by other guitarists to achieve controlled feedback?
Yes, other prominent guitarists like Robert Fripp and Ted Nugent have employed techniques to achieve controlled feedback on stage. Robert Fripp, known for his work with David Bowie, would measure the distance between his guitar and the speaker for each note to determine where feedback occurred most effectively. Ted Nugent has been mentioned in anecdotes as taping the stage during soundcheck, although solid documentation is lacking.
How did Robert Fripp utilize tape markings on the floor to guide his positioning during performances?
Robert Fripp would place tape markings on the floor to indicate the optimal positions on stage where he could achieve controlled feedback. By measuring the distance between his guitar and the speaker for each note, Fripp could accurately position himself to hit the “sweet spots” during his performances.
Is there a definitive answer to whether Jimi Hendrix employed the practice of marking “sweet spots” on stage?
No, there is currently no definitive answer. While the claim lacks direct evidence for Hendrix specifically, it is important to consider the observations of others and the techniques used by other guitarists of that era. Further research and evidence are needed to conclusively determine whether Hendrix employed this practice.