Jimi Plays Monterey (1986) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

Release, runtime and language

1986 · 50 mins · English

Loading streaming availability…

Directed by

Chris Hegedus, D. A. Pennebaker

Starring

George Harrison, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr, Brian Jones, Mick Jagger

Hendrix’s first American performance at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival quickly became legendary. Though largely unknown in the US, he and the two‑piece Experience detonated the stage, tearing through blues staples “Rock Me Baby” and Howlin’ Wolf’s “Killing Floor,” electrifying Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone,” debuting tracks from his forthcoming debut album, and ending with a spectacular guitar‑burning finale during a wild rendition of “Wild Thing.” His use of feedback and distortion pushed the music into unprecedented, intense territory.