For the first time in history, never-before-heard tapes from Jimi Hendrix are hitting the auction block. These rare 1968 demos, known as the Jimi Hendrix tapes, were recorded just two years before Hendrix’s untimely death. They feature unreleased versions of iconic tracks like Up From The Skies, Ain’t No Telling, Little Miss Lover, and Stone Free. The runtime of these tapes is around seven minutes. Each tape is expected to fetch hundreds of thousands of pounds at the auction. This offers dedicated fans a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Moreover, they can own a piece of rock history.
The tapes, which have remained untouched for decades, were originally recovered from the office of Hendrix’s manager Mike Jeffrey in 1973 by his assistant, Patricia “Trixie” Sullivan. She is now putting them up for sale. Propstore, a renowned entertainment auctioneer, is hosting the auction. They promise that fans who purchase these Jimi Hendrix tapes will have exclusive access. Furthermore, fans will hear songs that have been unheard by the public for over 54 years.
More Than Just Music: Personal Insights into Hendrix’s Life
In addition to the music, the auction will also offer a unique glimpse into Hendrix’s personal life. Items up for sale include payslips for Hendrix and his band. The sale also features handwritten forms from the musician requesting his birth certificate. There are also various receipts documenting aspects of his day-to-day life—everything from dry-cleaning bills to tour itineraries. These documents paint a rare picture of Hendrix’s off-stage world. They show both the personal and professional sides of one of the most legendary figures in music history. This is alongside the Jimi Hendrix tapes themselves.
A Historic Collection
Mark Hochman, music expert for Propstore, has described the collection as “captivating,” noting the depth and historical significance of the material. In addition to the Hendrix tapes, master tapes from other artists managed by Jeffrey, including The Animals and Soft Machine, will also be auctioned. For fans of 1960s rock and music history enthusiasts, this event offers a rare chance to experience unreleased music and unique memorabilia from one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century.
With classic hits like Purple Haze, Foxy Lady, and All Along the Watchtower, Hendrix left an indelible mark on rock, blues, soul, and jazz, earning him the title of the greatest guitarist of all time in the eyes of many. This auction, featuring the Jimi Hendrix tapes, not only preserves Hendrix’s legacy but also transports fans back to a pivotal era in music.
Auction Details
- Date: Friday, 15 November 2024
- Location: London (Live-streamed worldwide)
- Hosted by: Propstore Entertainment Auctioneers
Whether you’re a passionate Hendrix fan or a collector of music history, this auction is an event not to be missed. The Jimi Hendrix tapes, alongside a collection of personal documents, bring Hendrix’s career and personal life into sharper focus, making this auction a landmark event in the world of music memorabilia.