Jimi Hendrix’s 1964-1965 Fender Jazzmaster

Brand: Fender

Model: Jazzmaster

Jimi was seen playing this Fender Jazzmaster during a gig with King Curtis & the Kingpins in May 1966. Given that this is the only time he was ever seen with the guitar, it was likely borrowed. Supporting this idea is the fact that the strap button was not relocated to the bottom, as it typically would be if the Jazzmaster had been permanently converted for left-handed use.

Jimi Hendrix playing a white Fender Jazzmaster guitar with King Curtis, May 5th, 1966 — King Curtis, Percy Sledge, Cornell Dupree, and Jimi Hendrix – Prelude Club NYC May 5th, 1966. Photo credit: William “PoPsie” Randolph. Prints are available at www.popsiephotos.com

From the available photos, a few details about the guitar can be observed. It was likely manufactured before mid-1965, as Fender began adding white binding around the neck on models produced in late 1965. Additionally, the guitar features the (at that time) new-style knobs, which were introduced on Jazzmasters around mid-1965 [GuitarHQ – The Fender Jazzmaster].

While it’s unclear if Jimi actually owned this guitar, it’s evident that he was drawn to the Jazzmaster model during these early years. Whether borrowed or owned, this instrument represents another fascinating chapter in Jimi Hendrix’s guitar legacy, one that continues to inspire musicians and fans alike.