On this day in 1967, innovative Rock and Roll guitarist James Marshall "Jimi" Hendrix (1942-1970) released his song Purple Haze.

Hendrix once said: "Imagination is the key to my lyrics. The rest is painted with a little science fiction."

Born in Seattle and raised in Canada, the talented left-handed guitarist/singer learned to play the harmonica at age four. Listening to the albums of his heroes B. B. King and Chuck Berry, young Jimi taught himself to play the guitar.

Hendrix's performances were unlike anything experienced before. He'd play his guitar over his head, with his teeth, behind his back, then set it on fire as an offering to the guitar gods who blessed him. His searing rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner at Woodstock raged against the Vietnam War.

Rolling Stone photographer Jim Marshall said, "Jimi was extremely confident, very sensual, and very sure of himself, but not arrogant, and I personally never heard him be rude or cross to anyone."

Way ahead of his time as one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century, many label Hendrix the best guitarist ever. His remarkable style dazzled and inspired modern legends Joe Satriani, Eddie Van Halen, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Ray Vaughan.

"With Jimi, I didn't have any envy. I never had any sense I could come close (to his guitar playing)," said The Who's Pete Townshend.

"Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens," Hendrix said.

The innovative guitar king was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1992. In 2003, Rolling Stone named him the #1 rock guitarist of all time. The gifts of his riffs continue to astonish and satisfy...

"The story of love is hello and goodbye... until we meet again."