Newly discovered Jimi Hendrix recordings from 1978 are set to go up for auction, more than five decades after the legendary rock musician’s passing. The demo tapes, including tracks like “Up From the Skies”, “Little Miss Lover”, and “Ain’t No Telling”, are said to offer a unique sound and length variation compared to the versions known to fans. These recordings will give the buyer exclusive rights to listen to them, as stated by music consultant Mark Hochman of auctioneer Propstore.
The material, previously in the possession of Patricia “Trixie” Sullivan who worked for Hendrix’s manager, Mike Jeffrey, will be auctioned for the first time. Alongside the demo tapes, a range of memorabilia such as payslips, contracts, and even dry-cleaning bills for stage costumes from the Jimi Hendrix Experience will be available for sale. Notably, there is a note included in the auction from Hendrix’s record label informing him of eviction from Ringo Starr’s London flat due to noise complaints from neighbours.
The auction will feature over 50 rare tapes, some from other bands like Animals and Soft Machine in addition to the Hendrix Experience. A unique version of “Stone Free”, valued at up to £200,000, is anticipated to be a highlight of the collection. Hochman remarked that these unreleased versions offer a different, tighter, and guitar-focused sound that experts agree is superior to previously known renditions.
Potential buyers should note that the purchaser of these recordings will need to negotiate with the Hendrix estate before any public release. The auction is scheduled for 15th November in London, with live-streaming available for those interested in witnessing the bidding process.