About the song
“Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” by The Jimi Hendrix Experience is a legendary track that showcases the extraordinary talent and innovative spirit of Jimi Hendrix, a true icon of rock music. This song, the final track on the 1968 album “Electric Ladyland,” has become one of Hendrix’s most celebrated works, capturing his mastery of the electric guitar and his ability to blend blues with psychedelic rock.
“Electric Ladyland,” the third and final studio album by The Jimi Hendrix Experience, was a groundbreaking record that pushed the boundaries of what rock music could be. Released in October 1968, the album featured an array of experimental sounds and studio techniques that were ahead of their time. “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” stands out as a particularly powerful and dynamic piece, recorded during an impromptu session with Hendrix’s bandmates Noel Redding on bass and Mitch Mitchell on drums, alongside guest keyboardist Steve Winwood of Traffic.
The song was written by Jimi Hendrix himself, and it encapsulates his unique approach to music—melding deep, bluesy roots with an electric, almost otherworldly sound. The lyrics evoke imagery of mystical and supernatural power, reflecting Hendrix’s fascination with the metaphysical. The song’s iconic riff, one of the most recognizable in rock history, is a testament to Hendrix’s genius as a guitarist. His use of feedback, wah-wah pedals, and innovative techniques like string bending and vibrato created a sound that was both raw and sophisticated.
“Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” was not released as a single at the time of the album’s release but has since become one of Hendrix’s most enduring songs. It gained significant recognition posthumously, and its live performances were legendary, often serving as a showcase for Hendrix’s incredible improvisational skills. The song reached wider audiences when it was released as a single in the UK in 1970, following Hendrix’s untimely death, and it climbed to number one on the UK Singles Chart, cementing its status as a classic.
The influence of “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” extends far beyond its initial release. It has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, and its powerful riff and soulful solos continue to inspire guitarists around the world. The song is a staple in rock music and a highlight in the legacy of The Jimi Hendrix Experience, illustrating the profound impact Hendrix had on the music world.
In conclusion, “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” by The Jimi Hendrix Experience is not just a song but a milestone in the history of rock music. It showcases Jimi Hendrix’s extraordinary guitar prowess, his innovative spirit, and his ability to blend different musical influences into something entirely new and electrifying. This track remains a testament to Hendrix’s enduring legacy and his status as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Video
Lyrics
Well, I stand up next to a mountain
And I chop it down with the edge of my hand
Yeah
Well, I stand up next to a mountain
And I chop it down with the edge of my hand
Well, I pick up all the pieces and make an island
Might even raise a little sand
Yeah
‘Cause I’m a voodoo child
Lord knows I’m a voodoo child baby
I want to say one more last thing
I didn’t mean to take up all your sweet time
I’ll give it right back to ya one of these days
Hahaha
I said I didn’t mean to take up all your sweet time
I’ll give it right back one of these days
Oh yeah
If I don’t meet you no more in this world then uh
I’ll meet ya on the next one
And don’t be late
Don’t be late!
‘Cause I’m a voodoo child voodoo child
Lord knows I’m a voodoo child
Hey hey hey
I’m a voodoo child baby
I don’t take no for an answer
Question no