Exploring the Derelict Recording Studios Where Jimi Hendrix Made History

Jimi Hendrix is a name that needs no introduction in the world of music. A true icon, his influence on rock and roll still echoes through the generations. But what about the places where he created his legendary music? What has happened to them over time?

Today, we take a look at some of the derelict recording studios where Jimi Hendrix made history. These are buildings that once housed some of the most creative people in the industry and have since fallen into disrepair.

Electric Lady Studios

Electric Lady Studios was founded by Jimi Hendrix himself in 1968. He envisioned it as a place where artists could come together to create and experiment with sound without any interference from record labels or producers. The studio was also one of the first designed specifically for 16-track recording.

Located in New York City’s Greenwich Village, Electric Lady was an instant hit among musicians who were looking for an alternative to traditional recording spaces. It became known for its relaxed atmosphere and state-of-the-art equipment.

Sadly, after Hendrix’s death in 1970, Electric Lady fell into financial troubles and eventually had to be sold off to new owners. Over time, neglect led to significant water damage which caused mold growth throughout much of the building.

Despite efforts to restore it back to its former glory, Electric Lady remains largely abandoned today – a shell of what it once was.

Olympic Studios

Olympic Studios may not have been directly associated with Jimi Hendrix but his work there left an indelible mark on London’s music scene during their heyday from circa 1966-68. This is particularly true when you consider recordings like “Hey Joe”, “Purple Haze” or even “All Along The Watchtower” were all recorded here!

The studio itself started life as a cinema before being converted into a recording space by Olympic Sound Studios founder Keith Grant in 1965; the space was known for having a unique sound that cannot be replicated.

Hendrix recorded several of his most iconic albums at Olympic, including “Are You Experienced” and “Axis: Bold as Love”. The studio also played host to other legendary acts like The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin and David Bowie.

In 2009, the building was sold to property developers who planned to turn it into luxury flats. While much of the original structure still remains intact today (including its distinctive facade), the interior has been completely gutted and rebuilt from scratch.

Columbia Studios

Columbia Studios in Hollywood is where Jimi Hendrix brought his music to life on many occasions. It was here that he recorded tracks like “Little Wing” and “If 6 Was 9”, some say they are among his best compositions ever.

The studio itself opened in 1928 and quickly became one of the most popular recording spaces in Los Angeles. Over time, Columbia played host to some of music’s biggest names like Frank Sinatra, Miles Davis, Bob Dylan and Pink Floyd.

Sadly though Columbia eventually fell out of favour with musicians during the late 1970s due to increased competition from other recording studios around town. By the early 1980s it had become an abandoned relic with little hope for revival.

While there have been various plans over the years to restore Columbia back into use as a recording space or even concert venue they never came through fruition; leaving behind only memories what once happened within its walls.

Conclusion

As we’ve seen from these examples – Electric Lady Studios, Olympic Sound Studios & Columbia Studios – Jimi Hendrix left his mark on many different places throughout his career. Sadly though many of these buildings have now fallen into disrepair or simply vanished altogether over time leaving nothing but memories behind.

Despite this however it’s still possible for curious fans or enthusiasts alike get a sense for what those times were really like by visiting the few remaining buildings that still stand – even if they’re little more than shells of what they once were.

Urban exploration has been one way for people to get a glimpse into this past while also exploring the derelict buildings; such as those mentioned above, which have become something akin to time capsules and are well worth experiencing first-hand. Whether you’re a die-hard Hendrix fan or simply someone who loves music history, these spaces offer a unique perspective on an era in music that will never be forgotten.