For those of us born too late to see Jimi Hendrix play live, there are a couple projects in the works that should give us a close (as possible) approximation to the experience. The Experience Hendrix tour, which last time around was lead by Carlos Santana, is set for a five city run with a remarkable set of musicians.

This year the legendary Buddy Guy (who was also on the first tour) will be joined by feature performers Robert Randolph, Jonny Lang and Kenny Wayne Shepherd. Special guests are also said to include Robbie Krieger from the Doors, Mick Taylor of the Rolling Stones and Mississippi-born guitarist Hubert Sumlin who worked with other legends like Howlin’ Wolf and Muddy Waters. A very cool feature will also have the original Jimi Hendrix Experience rhythm section, Mitch Mitchell (drums) and Billy Cox (bass), that backed Jimi at Woodstock. And, if that wasn't cool enough, they'll also be joined by Chris Layton and Tommy Shannon, a/k/a Double Trouble, the from the late great Stevie Ray Vaughan’s band.

This is something I very much hope to catch. Tickets are on sale now for dates in Washington, D.C. (Constitution Hall), NYC (Beacon Theater), Hampton Beach, NH (Casino Ballroom), Atlantic City (Trump Casino) and Waterbury, CT (Palace Theater). And, there is more fun in store for Hendrix fans as The Jimi Hendrix Experience at Monterey, Jimi's debut at the Pop Festival, will be released on DVD on October 16th to serve as a reminder as to why this was such a special artist. While there will never be another Hendrix, it is very cool and importnat that culturally significant music like this lives on for new generations to remind us, and those picking up a guitar for the first time, that musicianship counts. Hendrix had "it" - we can only hope others that follow can even get close.

Labels: Hendrix, Robert Randolph