Voodoo Child (Slight Return)

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as they spin the electrifying "Voodoo Child (Slight Return)" by The Jimi Hendrix Experience from the iconic album Electric Ladyland. This track, recorded on May 3, 1968, at the Record Plant in New York City, came to life in a spontaneous moment during a filming session for a possible ABC-TV documentary. Hendrix, with Noel Redding on bass and Mitch Mitchell on drums, was supposed to mime recording, but he seized the opportunity to teach his bandmates a new song. After just three takes, the master version was born, showcasing Hendrix’s raw genius and improvisational prowess. The song’s iconic wah-wah-heavy guitar intro and explosive riff were captured in a moment of pure creativity, with Hendrix tuned to E-flat, a choice that added to the track’s distinctive tone.

The recording process wasn’t without its quirks. Hendrix later recounted how the crew wanted them to “make it look like you’re recording, boys,” leading to the off-the-cuff creation of this hard rock masterpiece. The song’s title, “Voodoo Child (Slight Return),” distinguishes it from the 15-minute blues jam “Voodoo Chile” recorded the previous day with guest musicians Steve Winwood and Jack Casady. The “Slight Return” version, clocking in at just over five minutes, was a deliberate contrast, packing a punch with its psychedelic energy. Guitarist Joe Satriani has called “Voodoo Chile” the “greatest piece of electric guitar work ever recorded,” a sentiment echoed by fans and critics who see it as a cornerstone of Hendrix’s legacy. Posts on X from users like @chickenfootjoe highlight its status as “the holy grail of guitar expression,” with music theory explorations diving into its genius.

Another layer of intrigue comes from the song’s cultural impact. After Hendrix’s death in 1970, “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” was released as a single in the UK, hitting number one on the charts under the title “Voodoo Chile.” Its influence stretched beyond music—wrestler Hulk Hogan used a portion of the song as his theme music during his time leading the nWo faction in WCW. Live performances of the song, which could stretch from seven to 18 minutes, became legendary, with notable renditions at Woodstock, the Royal Albert Hall, and the Fillmore East. A 1969 performance on BBC’s Lulu Show, where Hendrix transitioned from “Hey Joe” into Cream’s “Sunshine of Your Love” as a tribute, reportedly led to a ban from BBC television, cementing its rebellious spirit, as noted in posts by @LibrarySheet on X.

Jimi Hendrix, born Johnny Allen Hendrix on November 27, 1942, in Seattle, Washington, started his musical journey as a self-taught guitarist. After a brief stint in the U.S. Army, he honed his craft playing backup for artists like Little Richard and the Isley Brothers on the Chitlin’ Circuit. In 1966, Hendrix moved to London, where he formed The Jimi Hendrix Experience with bassist Noel Redding and drummer Mitch Mitchell. Their debut album, Are You Experienced, released in 1967, skyrocketed them to fame with hits like “Purple Haze” and “Foxy Lady.” Hendrix’s innovative guitar techniques, blending blues, rock, and psychedelia, redefined the instrument’s possibilities. His ability to merge Chicago blues with sci-fi imagery, as seen in “Voodoo Child,” reflected his unique vision, influenced by his love for Muddy Waters and Delta blues.

Fans can dive deeper into Hendrix’s world through his official channels: the Jimi Hendrix website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. For community vibes, check out fan-driven spaces like the Jimi Hendrix Wiki or join discussions on Jimi Hendrix Fans Facebook groups. These platforms keep the spirit of Hendrix alive, celebrating his enduring influence on rock and beyond. So, Zoo Freaks, crank up “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” and let Hendrix’s cosmic energy take you to the stars!