One man's memories of Jimi Hendrix playing a gig in South Shields: Were you there?

But back in 1967, Jimi Hendrix was rocking a South Shields venue and going down an absolute storm.

And one of the audience, Alan Robertson, has kindly shared his memories of an unforgettable night with the Shields Gazette.

Jimi Hendrix was playing a punishing diary of smaller venues around Britain when he came to the New Cellar Cub in South Shields on February 1, 1967.

Alan, who now lives in Surrey, was one of the people who was there. He responded when the Gazette asked for memories of the gig, and Alan gave us a great reply.

He said: “It was an outstanding gig, and as I remember, not a massive number present. It was easy to get very close to the stage near the musicians.

“During the event, I went to the bar and was spoken to by Chas Chandler who was sitting there. He said “What do you think of the lad?”

“After a stunned pause I said “I think he is amazing, he’ll do well!” Chas said “thanks” and kindly paid for my round of drinks.”

Alan responded to an article in the Gazette.

It said: “Psychedelic hero Hendrix had still to crack the big time when he was booked to play The New Cellar club, in the town’s Thomas Street, as part of a punishing debut British tour of smaller venues.

“Yet by the evening of the gig on February 1, 1967, debut single Hey Joe had crashed into the UK top 10 and South Shields had bagged itself an overnight sensation.”

The article added: “By 1969 Hendrix was reputedly the world’s highest paid musician, had ditched the Experience and headlined the Woodstock music festival complete with his memorable Star Spangled Banner finale.

“From penniless musician to worldwide fame and premature death in less than four years, Hendrix lived his life in a similar fashion to the lightning way he played his guitar.

“And South Shields can at least say it played a small part in his rapid rise to stardom.”

If you were there contact us at [email protected] or message us on Facebook or Twitter.

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