Johnny Allen Hendrix was born to Al and Lucille Hendrix. His name was later changed to James Marshall Hendrix.

His parents divorced after years of instability. Young Jimi was shuffled between relatives throughout childhood.

His mother Lucille died from cirrhosis at age 32. Jimi was not allowed to attend the funeral.

His father bought him his first acoustic guitar for five dollars. Jimi taught himself to play by listening to records.

Acquired his first electric guitar, a Supro Ozark. Began playing in local bands around Seattle.

Enlisted in the US Army to avoid jail time for riding in stolen cars. Assigned to the 101st Airborne Division.

Received honorable discharge from the Army. Began his career as a touring sideman on the Chitlin Circuit.

Toured as backing guitarist for Little Richard, the Isley Brothers, and other R&B acts, developing his showmanship.

Moved to Harlem and began playing Greenwich Village clubs. Formed his band Jimmy James and the Blue Flames.

Animals bassist Chas Chandler saw him perform and brought him to London to form the Jimi Hendrix Experience.

First single Hey Joe reached number six in the UK. Jimi became an overnight sensation in Britain.

Released debut album Are You Experienced, featuring Purple Haze and The Wind Cries Mary. Revolutionary guitar sounds.

Set his guitar on fire at Monterey Pop Festival, introducing America to his incendiary stage presence.

Released double album Electric Ladyland, his commercial peak featuring All Along the Watchtower.

Performed iconic rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner at Woodstock, defining a generation's rebellion.

Formed all-Black power trio Band of Gypsys with Billy Cox and Buddy Miles, exploring funk and R&B.

Opened Electric Lady Studios, his state-of-the-art recording facility in Greenwich Village.

Jimi Hendrix died from asphyxiation after ingesting sleeping pills and alcohol. He was 27 years old.

Consistently ranked as the greatest guitarist in rock history, Hendrix revolutionized electric guitar technique and sound.