In Memoriam: Mitch Mitchell of the Jimi Hendrix Experience (1947-2008)

Many of you wrote in with the sad news that Mitch Mitchell, drummer for the influential Jimi Hendrix Experience, has passed away at 61 of natural causes. Mitchell, along with his bandmates and eponymous bandleader, were vastly influential through their sound which directly shaped the evolution of the electric guitar. The band's judicious use of distortion and effects was a major influence on both the rock'n'roll of the day and everything which followed from The Who through Sonic Youth.

For his part, Mitchell pioneered "fusion" drumming which was far more involved that more traditional rock drumming and influenced by jazz. These are all things taken for granted in modern music, which only speaks to the musicians vast influence.

Our deepest condolences to his friends and family.