Jimi Hendrix is widely regarded as the best guitarist of all time, not least by our very own Chula. With unparalleled technical mastery, showmanship and innovation, Hendrix seemed to be one with his instrument. Over the course of his upsettingly brief career, he redefined the musical landscape of his time, and cemented himself as a cultural legend of the late 60’s and early 70’s.
Yet behind the myth was a shy young man, whose early years were difficult, unsettled, and marked with emotional and physical neglect. He found music as an escape from his chaotic upbringing; but struggled with the immense fame and fortune that came along with it.
In the final episode of the season, Chula goes beyond the myth of Jimi Hendrix and explores the public triumphs and private pains of his ultimate guitar hero. Drawing on his work as a psychotherapist, he discusses how Hendrix’s unstable childhood, particularly as a child of alcoholic (ACA), might have contributed to his ability to experience and cope with fame and success in adulthood.
This week’s ‘ One For The Road’ is ‘Electric Ladyland’ - the third and final studio album by the Jimi Hendrix Experience - which Chula believes “everyone should listen to once before they die”. Treat yourself to a physical copy or stream it on your favourite platform.
Content Warnings: childhood neglect, poverty, alcohol addiction, early loss of a parent, drug use, overdose
If you or someone you know has been affected by the themes in this episode, there are some useful organisations on Attune’s website that can be of help: www.we-are-attune.com/podcast
Attune, as a dedicated provider of mental health and well-being services, is committed to delivering holistic support and resources. With its team of skilled professionals, Attune excels in recognising and responding to the intricate needs of people and teams in talent-based industries.
You can learn more about Attune through our website: https://www.we-are-attune.com/
Follow Attune on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/we_are_attune/#
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@weareattune
and LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/we-are-attune/
Empathy For The Devil is produced by Message Heard
Listen to more Message Heard shows through our website: https://messageheard.com/Follow Message Heard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/messageheard/mycompany/ and Twitter: https://x.com/messageheard?lang=en-GB
This is a Message Heard Production
Producer and Editor - Emma Werner
Senior Producer - Harry Stott
Executive Producer - Sandra Ferrari
Videographer - Ethan Judd
Audio Engineer - Lizzie Andrews
Production Coordinator - Kirsty McLean
Filmed at ID Studios
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Empathy For The Devil Season 2 is brought to you in partnership with London Records.