From Midnight Jams to Legendary Collaborations: How Andy Fairweather Low's 3AM Session with Hendrix Brought Otis Redding to Life!
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Unforgettable Jams: Andy Fairweather Low’s Late-Night Session with jimi Hendrix
Andy Fairweather Low reminisces about a spontaneous jam session with the iconic Jimi Hendrix, where the guitar legend surprisingly took to the bass guitar. This serendipitous encounter eventually led to an opportunity for Low to contribute to a classic Hendrix track.
As a founding member of amen Corner, the Welsh guitarist later established himself as a sought-after collaborator for renowned artists like George Harrison, Eric Clapton, and Joe satriani. However, it was during his time with Amen Corner that he first met Hendrix, who was known for his love of impromptu jam sessions.
“He had just appeared on Top Of The Pops, and the buzz was palpable,” Low shares in the latest edition of Guitarist. “Amen Corner was performing at the Speakeasy, and one evening, Jimi showed up eager to play. He borrowed Clive [Taylor]’s bass, turned it upside down, and we jammed on Otis Redding’s I Can’t Turn You Loose.”
But one jam was just the begining for the legendary guitarist. “The following night, he wanted to switch it up and play guitar, so he took Neil [Jones]’s guitar, flipped it upside down, and I picked up the bass,” Low recalls. “It was just me, Dennis [Bryon] on drums, and Hendrix at three in the morning.I must admit, I wasn’t at my best! But you have to start somewhere, right?”
Despite Low’s modesty about his bass skills, it seems he made a lasting impression on Hendrix, as their paths would soon cross again.
Stone Free. I went over, and Roger Chapman from Family was also there, so we laid down the track.”
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Stone Free (Record Plant, New York, NY, April, 7, 1969) - YouTube
Watch On
Stone Free, a defining anthem of the counterculture movement, was initially released as a B-side to Hey Joe in 1966.It was later re-recorded and re-released in the US in 1969, featuring Low and Chapman’s backing vocals. However, Hendrix biographer Keith Shadwick described this version as “disciplined but lacking spirit” in his book, Jimi Hendrix: Musician, a sentiment that Low seems to echo.
It was three o’clock in the morning, and I wasn’t at my best!
Andy Fairweather Low
“Honestly, it’s not a great version,” Low admits. “There’s only one true version of Stone Free.”
hendrix’s spontaneous jam sessions have become legendary over the years.In a recent conversation with Rick Beato, Andy Summers shared his own wild jam experience with Hendrix and Mitch Mitchell, while recordings of Hendrix jamming with Jonny Winter and Stephen Stills were released in 2018.
For more insights, check out the latest issue of guitarist, which also features interviews with Yvette Young, Adrian Smith, and Richie Kotzen.
In his interview with Guitarist, Low also revealed that he was the seventh choice guitarist for George Harrison’s 1991 Japan tour, following notable names like Gary moore and Alvin Lee.
From Midnight Jams to Legendary Collaborations: How andy Fairweather Low’s 3AM Session with Hendrix brought Otis Redding to Life!
From Midnight Jams to Legendary Collaborations: How Andy Fairweather Low’s 3AM Session with Hendrix Brought Otis Redding to Life!
The Legendary Encounter
In the world of music, few stories resonate as deeply as that of Andy Fairweather Low’s late-night jam session with the iconic Jimi Hendrix.This spontaneous collaboration not only showcased the raw talent of both musicians but also breathed new life into the classic sounds of Otis Redding. The magic of this 3AM session is a testament to the power of music and the connections it fosters.
Setting the Scene: The Speakeasy
It was the late 1960s, a time when music was evolving rapidly, and venues like the Speakeasy in London became hotspots for creativity and collaboration. Andy Fairweather Low, a member of the band Amen Corner, found himself in the right place at the right time. The Speakeasy was known for its vibrant atmosphere, attracting some of the biggest names in music.
What Made the Speakeasy special?
Intimate Atmosphere: The small venue allowed for close interactions between artists and fans.
Creative Freedom: Musicians felt free to experiment and collaborate without the pressure of a formal setting.
Star Power: Frequent appearances by legends like Hendrix made it a must-visit for music lovers.
The Jam Session: A Night to Remember
On that fateful night, Jimi Hendrix, fresh off a performance on Top Of The Pops, decided to drop by the Speakeasy. With his characteristic flair, he borrowed Clive taylor’s bass guitar, flipped it upside down, and joined Low and the rest of Amen Corner for an unforgettable rendition of Otis Redding’s I Can’t Turn You Loose.
Key Moments from the Jam
Hendrix’s Unique Style: Known for his innovative guitar techniques, Hendrix’s approach to the bass was equally captivating.
Low’s Humble Beginnings: Despite his talent,Low admitted he wasn’t at his best that night,showcasing the learning curve every musician faces.
The Energy of Collaboration: The synergy between the musicians created an electric atmosphere that resonated with everyone present.
Continuing the Collaboration: A Call from Jimi
Just a night later, the magic continued. Low received a call from Hendrix while in New York, inviting him to the studio to record vocals for a reimagined version of Stone Free. This opportunity marked a important moment in Low’s career, allowing him to contribute to a track that would become a staple in Hendrix’s discography.
Recording Stone Free
the recording session featured not only Low but also Roger Chapman from the band Family. Together, they added their unique vocal styles to the track, creating a version that, while different from the original, captured the spirit of Hendrix’s artistry.
Impact of the Collaboration
The collaboration between Low and Hendrix had lasting effects on both artists’ careers. For Low, it solidified his reputation as a versatile musician capable of working with rock legends. For Hendrix, it showcased his willingness to embrace new sounds and ideas, further enriching his musical legacy.
Legacy of Stone Free
Release Year
Version
Notable features
1966
B-side to Hey Joe
Original version, raw energy
1969
Re-recorded version
Featuring Andy Fairweather Low and Roger Chapman
Benefits of Late-Night Jams
Late-night jam sessions, like the one between Low and Hendrix, offer numerous benefits for musicians:
Creativity boost: The relaxed atmosphere encourages experimentation and innovation.
Networking Opportunities: Jamming with other artists can lead to future collaborations and projects.
Skill Progress: Musicians can learn from each other and improve their craft in a supportive surroundings.
first-Hand experiences: Musicians Share Their Stories
Many musicians have shared their own experiences of late-night jams, often highlighting the spontaneity and excitement that comes with them. Hear are a few notable anecdotes:
Andy Summers on Jimi Hendrix
In a recent interview, guitarist Andy Summers recounted his own outrageous jam session with Hendrix, emphasizing the unpredictability and thrill of playing with such a legendary figure.
Collaborations Across Genres
Musicians from various genres have embraced the concept of late-night jams, leading to unexpected collaborations that have enriched the music landscape. From jazz to rock, these sessions often result in groundbreaking music.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Musicians
If you’re looking to create yoru own memorable jam sessions, consider these practical tips:
Choose the Right Venue: Find a pleasant space that encourages creativity and collaboration.
Invite Diverse Musicians: Bringing together artists from different backgrounds can lead to unique sounds and ideas.
Keep It Casual: the best jams happen when everyone feels relaxed and free to express themselves.
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