A Documentary on Jimi

Reel to Reel: Jimi Hendrix: Hear My Train A Comin’
Presented By American Express
Wednesday, October 30; 7 PM

This new documentary unveils previously unseen performance footage – such as the 1968 Miami Pop Festival – and home movies taken by Hendrix and drummer Mitch Mitchell while sourcing an extensive archive of photographs, drawings, family letters and more to provide new insight into the musician’s personality and genius.  The film presents interviews with Hendrix himself, commentary from well-known friends and musicians including Paul McCartney, Noel Redding, Mitch Mitchell, Billy Cox, Eddie Kramer, Steve Winwood, as well as revealing glimpses into Jimi from those closest to him.  The film details the meteoric rise of the Experience, the creation of his groundbreaking music, the building of Electric Lady Studios, his state of the art recording facility in Greenwich Village, and concludes with poignant footage from his final performance in Germany in September 1970, just 12 days before his death at age 27. A pioneering electric guitarist, Hendrix had only four years of mainstream exposure and recognition, but his influential music and riveting stage presence left an enduring legacy. Directed by two-time GRAMMY-winner Bob Smeaton (The Beatles Anthology; Festival Express) and Produced by Janie Hendrix and John McDermott.  Following the screening, Smeaton and McDermott will participate in a panel, moderated by GRAMMY Museum executive director Bob Santelli.  The film will premiere nationwide on the American Masters series Tuesday, November 5, 9-11pm on PBS (check local listings); extended home video edition available on DVD & Blu-Ray same day, Jimi Hendrix Experience: Miami Pop Festival CD & limited edition vinyl set also available Nov. 5.