Mitch Mitchell, the drummer and the last surviving member of the Jimi Hendrix Experience has died?

Question

Here's what the article said:

Mitch Mitchell, drummer for the legendary Jimi Hendrix Experience of the 1960s and the group's last surviving member, was found dead in his hotel room early Wednesday. He was 61.

Mitchell was a powerful force on the Hendrix band's 1967 debut album "Are You Experienced?" as well as the trio's albums "Electric Ladyland" and "Axis: Bold As Love." He had an explosive drumming style that can be heard in hard-charging songs such as "Fire" and "Manic Depression."

The Englishman had been drumming for the Experience Hendrix Tour, which performed Friday in Portland. It was the last stop on the West Coast part of the tour.

Hendrix died in 1970. Bass player Noel Redding died in 2003.

An employee at Portland's Benson Hotel called police after discovering Mitchell's body.

Erin Patrick, a deputy medical examiner, said Mitchell apparently died of natural causes. An autopsy was planned.

"He was a wonderful man, a brilliant musician and a true friend," said Janie Hendrix, chief executive of the Experience Hendrix Tour and Jimi Hendrix' stepsister. "His role in shaping the sound of the Jimi Hendrix Experience cannot be underestimated."

Bob Merlis, a spokesman for the tour, said Mitchell had stayed in Portland for a four-day vacation and planned to leave Wednesday.

"It was a devastating surprise," Merlis said. "Nobody drummed like he did."

He said he saw Mitchell perform two weeks ago in Los Angeles, and the drummer appeared to be healthy and upbeat.

Merlis said the tour was designed to bring together veteran musicians who had known Hendrix — like Mitchell — and younger artists, such as Grammy-nominated winner Jonny Lang, who have been influenced by him.

Blues-rock guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd, who is 31 and was part of the tour, said Mitchell was to the drums what Hendrix was to the guitar.

"Today many of us have lost a dear friend, and the world has lost a rock n' roll hero," he said.

The classic rock world is losing her heroes. From Rick Wright to Mitch Mitchell, hopefully we don't continue to lose these amazing and historic musicians, at least for a long time. RIP Mitch Mitchell. You will be missed.

What's your favorite Jimi Hendrix Experience song?

Answer 1

What is it with everyone dying all of a sudden? :*(



That is sad, RIP Mitch.



Wow, I don't know, there are so many to choose from.. Really, too many. I've been listening to Spanish Castle Magic a lot recently though.

Answer 2

RIP Mitch Mitchell. Great drummer, here's hoping he's the last of the classic rockers to pass away this year.



I really like Manic Depression.

Answer 3

This was very sad news to read. His drumming was a major part of the whole Hendrix mystique.



Favorite Song: Castles Made of Sand. It has some of the coolest lyrics ever.

Answer 4

Manic Depression.

Answer 5

Now I'm depressed... :(



So many great songs to choose from, but I'd go with these two :~

Voodoo Child (Slight Return)

The Wind Cries Mary



And one of Mitch's best :~

Manic Depression

Answer 6

Omigod seriously? Ya that really is sad. Now all we need is a new guitar God, you know? Like maybe it's time for the torch to go to someone new?

Answer 7

VOOOODDDOOOOOO CHILD



heeelllll yessss

Answer 8

I know man...sad day :(