If you’ve ever wondered what guitar Jimi Hendrix played to create his iconic sound, you’re not alone. Hendrix, one of the most influential guitarists in rock history, is closely associated with a specific instrument that became as legendary as his music. Let’s dive into the guitar that defined his groundbreaking style.

Jimi Hendrix is most famously known for playing the Fender Stratocaster, often referred to simply as a “Strat.” This electric guitar, with its sleek design and versatile tone, was his weapon of choice for most of his career. Hendrix favored the Stratocaster for its bright, cutting sound and the ability to manipulate its tremolo bar (or “whammy bar”) for wild, expressive bends and dives—think of the psychedelic wails in songs like “Voodoo Child (Slight Return).”

Interestingly, Hendrix was left-handed, but he often played right-handed Stratocasters flipped upside down and restrung to accommodate his playing style. This unique approach not only contributed to his distinct sound but also gave him a different angle on the controls and tremolo system. His go-to models were typically from the mid-1960s, with favorites including a 1968 white Stratocaster (nicknamed “Izabella”) that he played at Woodstock, along with various black and sunburst models.

While Hendrix did experiment with other guitars—like the Gibson Flying V and Gibson SG during certain periods—he always returned to the Fender Stratocaster as his signature instrument. His connection to the Strat is so iconic that Fender later released tribute models inspired by his gear, ensuring his legacy lives on for aspiring guitarists.

So, if you’re looking to channel some of Hendrix’s magic, a Fender Stratocaster is the place to start. It’s not just a guitar—it’s a piece of music history that helped shape the sound of rock ‘n’ roll.