Jimi Hendrix (1942–1970) forever transformed rock and blues with his blazing guitar mastery, poetic lyrics, and fearless spirit—earning a spot in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the title of Rolling Stone’s “Greatest Guitarist of All Time.”
Below is a collection of his most authentic and impactful quotes—on life, music, freedom, and more—to inspire fans new and old.
Fun fact: although he was left-handed, Hendrix famously restrung right-handed guitars to play them upside down.
Table of Contents
Jimi Hendrix on Life & Individuality
Hendrix believed in living authentically and boldly. His perspective on self-expression and the human experience was as groundbreaking as his music.
“I’m the one that’s got to die when it’s time for me to die, so let me live my life the way I want to.”
— Interview, 1969
This iconic statement captures Hendrix’s defiant independence and personal responsibility.
“In order to change the world, you have to get your head together first.”
— Interview
Hendrix reminds us that real change starts from within.
“Blues is easy to play, but hard to feel.”
— Spoken in interview
This highlights his deep emotional connection to his craft and the importance of authenticity.
“If I’m free, it’s because I’m always running.”
— Interview
Hendrix saw freedom as an ongoing journey, not a destination.
“The story of life is quicker than the wink of an eye, the story of love is hello and goodbye… until we meet again.”
— Lyric, “The Story of Life”
This lyric reflects on the fleeting yet meaningful moments that define us.
Jimi Hendrix on Music & Creativity
Music was Hendrix’s true language. These quotes show his passion for sound and his commitment to innovation.
“Music is my religion.”
— Interview
For Hendrix, music was more than art—it was a spiritual calling.
“Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens.”
— Interview
One of his most widely quoted insights, it’s a call for humility and deep listening.
“Excuse me while I kiss the sky.”
— Lyric, “Purple Haze” (1967)
Perhaps his most famous lyric, celebrating imagination and creative transcendence.
“When I die, just keep playing the records.”
— Interview
A poignant reminder of music’s enduring power.
“I just hate to be in one corner. I hate to be just the guitar player, or the songwriter, or the tap dancer. I want to be all-round… and I hope to live up to it.”
— Interview
Hendrix expresses his endless desire for creative growth.
Jimi Hendrix on Peace, Love & Freedom
Hendrix was an outspoken advocate for peace, unity, and love—a message as vital today as it was in the ‘60s.
“When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace.”
— Attributed in interviews and his final concert (1970)
This remains one of his most cited calls for global harmony.
“Love is stronger than the power of hatred.”
— Interview
Hendrix’s music and message always emphasized compassion over conflict.
“We want to give the world a better message than just war and hate.”
— Speech at Woodstock, 1969
Hendrix famously played “The Star-Spangled Banner” at Woodstock, turning it into a protest for peace.
“Freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose.”
— While popularized by Janis Joplin, Hendrix also echoed similar themes in his interviews about personal and social freedom.*
Jimi Hendrix on Dreams & Imagination
Hendrix believed in the boundless potential of dreams and the power of imagination.
“Even castles made of sand fall into the sea, eventually.”
— Lyric, “Castles Made of Sand” (1967)
A poetic reflection on impermanence and resilience.
“Imagination is the key to my lyrics. The rest is painted with a little science fiction.”
— Interview
He viewed creativity as limitless and playful.
“You have to go on and be crazy. Craziness is like heaven.”
— Interview
Hendrix encourages us to embrace our unique vision.
Jimi’s Spark Lives On
As an artist, Jimi Hendrix continues to inspire millions to find their voice, challenge the status quo, and spread love through art. His words live on, urging us to be bold, creative, and compassionate.
