Mitch Mitchell

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John "Mitch" Mitchell (born 9 July, 1947) was a drummer for Jimi Hendrix.

He was one of the most influential drummers of the late 1960s and early 1970s. He is most noted for his work with The Jimi Hendrix Experience, and praised for his legendary works on such songs as Manic Depression, and Third Stone from the Sun. Mitchell came from a jazz background and like many of his drumming contemporaries he was strongly influenced by the work of Elvin Jones, Philly Joe Jones, and Art Blakey. He brought this dynamic, flowing style to the group, and was given the freedom to "take it out there" along with Jimi Hendrix, while still keeping the grooves grounded and solid.

Mitch pioneered a style of drumming which would later become known as fusion. This is a "lead" style of playing typified by chops-heavy interplay with lead instruments such as guitar or keyboards, and the melding of jazz and rock drumming styles. In late 1966, this expressive and flamboyant style of playing was unheard of in rock. Drums had always been expected to stay in the background, locking down the groove with the bass. Along with Hendrix's groundbreaking guitar work and songs, Mitch's playing helped to redefine rock music.

Mitch was Hendrix's most important musical collaborator, playing in Hendrix's Experience trio from October 1966 to mid-1969, his Woodstock band in August 1969, and also his "Cry of Love" band in 1970. Hendrix would often record tracks in the studio with just himself and Mitch, and in concert the two fed off of each other to exciting effect.

After Hendrix's death, Mitch (along with engineer Eddie Kramer) finished production work on various incomplete Hendrix recordings, which would result in posthumous releases such as "Cry of Love" and "Rainbow Bridge". In 1972, he teamed up with guitarists April Lawton and Mike Pinera to form Ramatam. They recorded one album and were the opening act for ELP on a number of concerts. Interestingly, Mitch had been offered the drum spot in ELP during 1970, but turned it down in favor of play with Hendrix. Mitch also did some gigs with Terry Reid, Jack Bruce, and Jeff Beck (subbing for drummer Cozy Powell, who was sick).

For the rest of the 70s and through to the 90s, Mitch kept a low profile, doing occasional session work (such as Junior Brown's "Long Walk Home" album) as well as participating in various Hendrix-related recordings, videos, and interviews. Most recently, he was part of the "Gypsy Sun Experience" band, along with former Hendrix bassist Billy Cox and guitarist Gary Serkin. He is all but retired now, and lives in Europe.

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