Freddie Mercury Pays Tribute to his Idol, Jimi Hendrix
Freddie Mercury, the legendary musician and frontman of the band Queen, has revealed his admiration for the late guitar virtuoso, Jimi Hendrix. In a candid interview with Circus Magazine in 1975, Mercury discussed his biggest influences and declared Hendrix as his idol. The Queen singer described Hendrix as the epitome of a rock star, praising his stage presence and undeniable magic.
While Mercury himself was known for his larger-than-life personality and commanding stage presence, he found inspiration in Hendrix’s ability to transform into a different person on stage. According to Mercury, Hendrix’s confidence and audacious stunts, like smashing guitars, were just as awe-inspiring as his musical talent. For Mercury, Hendrix represented the complete package that every rock ‘n’ roll star should aspire to.
But Hendrix wasn’t the only artist who earned Mercury’s admiration. He also singled out Liza Minelli, from the musical theatre world, and Led Zeppelin, particularly frontman Robert Plant, as other influences. However, Hendrix’s impact on Mercury was unparalleled. The Queen singer even referenced his idol in the band’s 1989 track, ‘The Miracle’, further demonstrating his obsession with Hendrix.
In addition to his musical prowess, Mercury revered Hendrix’s style and presence. The Queen singer described him as a beautiful man, a master showman, and a dedicated musician. He would travel across the country to see Hendrix perform because he believed the guitarist embodied everything a rock star should be.
Mercury’s idolization of Hendrix not only showcased the guitarist’s enduring influence but also shed light on the transformative power of stage presence and showmanship. It was this aspect of Hendrix’s artistry that fueled Mercury’s own drive to become a star in his own right.
While Hendrix’s untimely death cut short his legendary career, his impact on future generations of musicians, including Freddie Mercury, cannot be overstated. The Queen frontman’s appreciation for Hendrix’s magic and ability to captivate an audience inspired him to become one of the most iconic performers in rock history.
Although they belonged to different genres, Mercury recognized the universal appeal of great showmanship and harnessed it within his own artistry. His idol, Jimi Hendrix, became the embodiment of everything Mercury aspired to be on stage — a true rock star capable of commanding attention and captivating audiences worldwide.
Freddie Mercury’s acknowledgment of Jimi Hendrix as his idol pays tribute to a musician whose influence transcends time and genre. As the world continues to revel in the enduring legacy of both artists, their passion for showmanship serves as a reminder of the transformative power of performance.
