Hendrix Live (from the Gymnasium)

If you heard the wind cry "Mary" today, it's because the sultan of the six string, Jimi Hendrix, died 39 years ago today. The man conjured fire, figuratively and literally, in the realm of rock n' roll.

I have a theory about music: that it connects to, and defines, everything. That's why background music is ubiquitous in movies, and why you can't wait to get home and listen to 'that one song' when you've had a rough day. And that's why your parents say "Ah, this reminds me of the old days," when a timeless throwback fades in on the radio.

Hendrix's music unquestionably did just that. Even in the life of this child of the 90's.

I grew up on an American military base in Japan, which was interesting to say the least. Before every major event in high school, the JROTC drill team would beautifully execute the presentation of the colors (or flags, in civilian-speak) ceremony to the tune of two national anthems, Japan's "Kimigayo" and, of course, ours.

But one fateful day, before a pep rally during my freshman year in high school, all of that heart-swelling pomp and circumstance was brought to a screeching halt. Instead of the usual select few choir members, recorded versions of each anthem were to be played during the presentation ceremony.

After "Kimigayo," the American flag was dipped by the guard-member, signaling the start of our national anthem. To the surprise of all 300 students and the 40-or-so faculty members, Jimi's glorious rendition of "The Star Spangled Banner" blasted through the gymnasium loudspeakers.

The older sister of a friend of mine, the apparent pep rally sound technician, stood by with a marvelously devilish grin on her face. Administrators exchanged looks of horror. Most of my classmates were befuddled. I felt like applauding.

Naturally, a discinplinary referral and a metaphorical slap on the wrist followed for the brave sound tech. But, at least in my eyes, she became the coolest chick on Earth that day. She recognized one of the originators of cool, and knew that it would do a cluster of teenage automatons a world of good to hear a bombing raid explode from Hendrix's slightly charred Fender Stratocaster.

Now, ask yourself, are you experienced? Here's some essential Hendrix listening in the unfortunate event that you aren't:

1. Voodoo Child (Slight Return) from Electric Ladyland

2. All Along the Watchtower from Electric Ladyland

3. Spanish Castle Magic from Axis: Bold As Love

4. Purple Haze from Are You Experienced?
(In this one, please note that he also uses his thumb to play!)

5. Hey Joe from Are You Experienced?