Jimi Hendrix: Voodoo Child

Jimi Hendrix: Voodoo Child is a 2010 documentary film that focuses on the life and career of one of the most influential musicians in history, Jimi Hendrix. The film prominently features Bootsy Collins who narrates the documentary, as well as exclusive footage of Hendrix's performances, interviews, and personal effects. Additionally, the film incorporates intimate conversations with Noel Redding, the bassist for the Jimi Hendrix Experience, who shares his personal memories of the late rock star.

Directed by Bob Smeaton renowned for his works on Beatles Anthology and Festival Express, Smeaton presents a compelling narrative using mainly Jimi's own words from letters, writings, and recordings to create an in-depth and personal view of Hendrix. As such, the documentary goes far beyond the typical exploration of Hendrix's discography and contribution to music; it provides viewers with a better understanding of the man behind the music and his journey from an obscure background to being a worldwide rock legend.

At the beginning of the film, we get a glimpse of Jimi Hendrix's early life in Seattle, his family's challenging economic background, and how he fell in love with the guitar. The viewer will understand how his personal and societal struggles, coupled with his strong determination, shaped his music style and growth. It does a fascinating job of capturing the Hendrix few people knew - a quiet boy, avid reader, passionate artist, and meticulous lyricist.

The documentary then traces Hendrix's career from his humble beginnings playing the chitlin’ circuit, his short stint as a backing band member for acts like Little Richard and The Isley Brothers, his struggles and ultimate breakthrough in the London music scene, to becoming a revolutionary solo artist who took the world by storm. It also brings to light the societal pressures and turbulent times Hendrix navigated as an African American rock artist in the late 60s.

The narration from Bootsy Collins, the renowned musician and former member of Parliament-Funkadelic, adds an interesting element to this documentary. Collins brings his personal understanding of the music industry and the era, enhancing the exploration of Hendrix's life with his passionate delivery. His voice guides the viewer through Hendrix's journey, adding depth and perspective to the raw footage and archived materials.

The film also gives viewers a front-row seat to some of Hendrix's most legendary performances, such as the Monterey Pop Festival and Woodstock. Through these spectacular shows, we see Hendrix's consummate artistry and innovation on full display. His handling of the guitar, his use of feedback and distortion, and blending of different music formats like blues, R&B, and rock was groundbreaking.

Essential commentary from Noel Redding, Hendrix's band mate, and other contemporaries also provided. Their candid discussions about the dynamics of the Jimi Hendrix Experience, Hendrix's creative process, and their personal relationships with him give the documentary real depth. These interviews paint a picture of Hendrix as not just an extraordinary performer, but also an innovative composer and a complex individual away from the spotlight.

Interwoven with unseen photographs and letters written by Hendrix along with his unique artwork, the film also gives an account of his life away from the stage and illuminates the person behind the larger-than-life public persona. It unravels the complexities of his character, his thoughts and feelings, his dreams, and how he constantly strived for musical evolution.

"Jimi Hendrix: Voodoo Child" is a documentary that touches the heart and soul of its viewers. It takes you by the hand and guides you through Hendrix's journeys, both personal and professional. The documentary provides an intimate look into the life of a brilliant musician who had a profound influence on the world of music. It pays homage to the legend, Jimi Hendrix, and offers a wealth of insight into his genius, his struggles, and the remarkable legacy he left behind.

In summary, Jimi Hendrix: Voodoo Child is more than a music documentary. It's a heartfelt tribute to a man whose life was tragically cut short but whose influence on modern music remains indelible. This would appeal not only to Jimi Hendrix fans but also to anyone interested in the history of rock and roll. It's a spellbinding look into the life of a man who changed music forever - a voodoo child who transformed his passion into a lasting legacy.