How Did Jimi Hendrix String His Guitar, and Why Did He Paint the Moon Blue?

Jimi Hendrix, one of the most iconic guitarists in the history of music, left an indelible mark on the world with his innovative techniques, soulful playing, and unique approach to the instrument. While his guitar stringing method is often discussed, it’s just one piece of the puzzle in understanding his genius. This article delves into how Hendrix strung his guitar, explores his unconventional methods, and ventures into the whimsical question of why he might have painted the moon blue—if he ever had the chance.

The Basics of Jimi Hendrix’s Guitar Stringing

Jimi Hendrix was known for playing a right-handed Fender Stratocaster flipped upside down, as he was left-handed. This unconventional setup required him to restring the guitar to accommodate his playing style. Here’s how he did it:

Reversing the String Order: Hendrix flipped the guitar, which meant the strings were in reverse order. The low E string, typically at the top for right-handed players, was now at the bottom. This reversal forced him to restring the guitar to ensure the strings were in the correct order for his left-handed playing.
Adjusting the Nut: The nut of the guitar, which holds the strings in place at the headstock, had to be modified. The grooves were often widened or adjusted to fit the reversed string order. This ensured proper string alignment and tuning stability.
Reversing the Tremolo System: The Stratocaster’s tremolo system, or whammy bar, was also affected by the flipped orientation. Hendrix had to adjust the spring tension to accommodate his playing style, which often involved aggressive use of the tremolo.
String Gauge Choices: Hendrix typically used lighter gauge strings, such as .010-.038 or .009-.042, which allowed for easier bending and vibrato. His choice of strings contributed to his signature tone and expressive playing.

The Impact of Hendrix’s Stringing Method on His Sound

Hendrix’s unique stringing method had a profound impact on his sound and playing style:

Tonal Characteristics: By flipping the guitar, Hendrix altered the tonal balance. The bass strings, now closer to the floor, produced a slightly different resonance, contributing to his distinctive sound.
Playing Techniques: The reversed string order influenced his chord shapes and fingerings. For example, his iconic thumb-over-the-neck technique for playing bass notes was easier to execute with the low E string at the bottom.
Innovative Use of the Whammy Bar: Hendrix’s adjustments to the tremolo system allowed him to create otherworldly sounds, such as the dive bombs and pitch shifts heard in songs like Purple Haze and Voodoo Child (Slight Return).

Beyond Stringing: Hendrix’s Unconventional Approach to Music

While Hendrix’s stringing method is fascinating, his genius extended far beyond the physical setup of his guitar. Here are some key aspects of his musical philosophy:

Experimentation with Effects: Hendrix was a pioneer in using effects pedals, such as the wah-wah, fuzz, and Uni-Vibe. He used these tools to create textures and sounds that were previously unheard in rock music.
Improvisation: Much of Hendrix’s music was born out of improvisation. His live performances, such as the legendary Woodstock set, showcased his ability to create spontaneous, emotionally charged solos.
Blending Genres: Hendrix seamlessly blended blues, rock, jazz, and funk, creating a sound that transcended genres. His music was a melting pot of influences, from Muddy Waters to Bob Dylan.
Visual and Theatrical Elements: Hendrix’s performances were as much about the visual experience as the music. His flamboyant stage presence, including setting his guitar on fire, added a theatrical dimension to his art.

Why Did Jimi Hendrix Paint the Moon Blue?

Now, let’s venture into the whimsical: why might Hendrix have painted the moon blue? While this is purely speculative, it’s a fun exercise to imagine how his creative mind might have approached such a task.

Symbolism of the Moon: The moon has long been a symbol of mystery, creativity, and the subconscious. For Hendrix, painting the moon blue could represent his desire to infuse the cosmos with his artistic vision.
Blue as a Metaphor: Blue is often associated with emotion, depth, and transcendence. Hendrix’s music frequently explored these themes, so painting the moon blue might symbolize his quest to connect with the infinite.
A Cosmic Canvas: Hendrix was known for pushing boundaries. Painting the moon could be seen as the ultimate act of artistic rebellion—a statement that no canvas, no matter how vast, is beyond the reach of human creativity.
A Tribute to the Blues: The color blue is deeply rooted in the blues tradition, a genre that heavily influenced Hendrix. Painting the moon blue could be his way of paying homage to the musical form that shaped his identity.

Legacy of Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix’s influence extends far beyond his lifetime. His innovative approach to the guitar, combined with his fearless creativity, continues to inspire musicians across genres. From his stringing method to his cosmic imagination, Hendrix remains a symbol of artistic freedom and boundless potential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Did Jimi Hendrix invent the upside-down guitar technique?
A: No, Hendrix did not invent the technique, but he popularized it and made it an integral part of his style.

Q: What kind of strings did Hendrix use?
A: Hendrix typically used lighter gauge strings, such as .010-.038 or .009-.042, to facilitate bending and vibrato.

Q: How did Hendrix’s stringing method affect his playing?
A: The reversed string order influenced his chord shapes, fingerings, and tonal balance, contributing to his unique sound.

Q: What effects pedals did Hendrix use?
A: Hendrix used a variety of effects, including the wah-wah, fuzz, and Uni-Vibe, to create his signature tones.

Q: Why is Jimi Hendrix considered a musical genius?
A: Hendrix’s innovative techniques, genre-blending style, and emotional depth in his playing have cemented his status as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.

Q: What is the significance of the moon in Hendrix’s music?
A: While the moon is not a direct theme in his music, it serves as a metaphor for the boundless creativity and cosmic imagination that defined his artistry.