If 6 Was 9

Jimi Hendrix

About If 6 Was 9

"If 6 Was 9" is a song written by Jimi Hendrix and recorded by the Jimi Hendrix Experience. It appeared on the release of their 1967 album Axis: Bold as Love and on the soundtrack for the 1969 film Easy Rider and the soundtrack for the 1991 film Point Break.


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Jimi Hendrix

James Marshall Hendrix (born Johnny Allen Hendrix; November 27, 1942 – September 18, 1970) was an American musician, singer and songwriter. Despite a limited mainstream exposure of four years, he is widely considered to have been the greatest electric guitarist in the history of popular music, and one of the most important musicians of the 20th century. more »

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10 facts about this song

Album Information
"If 6 Was 9" was included in Jimi Hendrix’s second studio album, titled "Axis: Bold As Love", which was released in the UK in December 1967 and in the USA in January 1968.
Song Classification
The song is classified in the genre of psychedelic rock and blues-rock, exhibiting Hendrix’s experimentation with unconventional sounds and structures.
Lyrics background
Hendrix’s lyrics for "If 6 Was 9" have been interpreted as an expression of individual freedom and countercultural expression. The lyrics "If the sun refused to shine, I don't mind, I don't mind" illustrate Hendrix’s independent spirit and refusal to conform to societal norms.
Instruments
In this song, Jimi Hendrix plays the guitar, the vocal and the recorder. Noel Redding, on backing vocal and bass, and Mitch Mitchell as the drummer, complete the band.
Cultural Influence
"If 6 Was 9" has been used in several movies and television shows over the years due to its emblematic countercultural message. For example, it was prominently featured in the 1969 film "Easy Rider," which portrayed the counterculture of the time.
Recording Techniques
The song uniquely used a recorder for its solo, which is uncommon in rock music. The song also makes use of reel-to-reel sound-on-sound, which allows for the layering of multiple guitar parts, demonstrating Hendrix’s innovative approach to music production.
Cover Versions
Many artists have covered "If 6 Was 9," including the folk-rock band Giant Sand in 1995, and Robert Plant and The Strange Sensation in 2002.
Innovation and Influence
The song helped change the music industry landscape by breaking down traditional songwriting barriers, inspiring future musicians to push boundaries.
Unique Sound
The song’s hazy, psychedelic vibe coupled with Hendrix’s guitar solos and ethereal vocals are representative of Hendrix’s unique sound, which pioneered a new form of rock music.
Critics Opinion
Many critics and fans consider "If 6 Was 9" to be an emblematic song in Jimi Hendrix’s discography, representing his ability to intertwine guitar virtuosity with lyrical depth.

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