Ealing Born Rock Legend Passes On

Mitch Mitchell was drummer for Jimi Hendrix Experience

Ealing born Mitch Mitchell died of natural causes this week in a hotel in Portland Oregon.

The 62 year old drummer was best known for being part of the Jimi Hendrix Experience but he also played with the Rolling Stones, John Lennon and Eric Clapton.

Having been a child actor of some note he concentrated on a music career. He spent time working in Jim Marshall's music equipment shop in Hanwell. He played for several bands including Georgie Fame and the Blue Flames and worked as a session musician before joining up with Jimi Hendrix. In 1968 he played in a band called The Dirty Mac assembled for The Rolling Stones Rock and Roll Circus. Other members included John Lennon, Eric Clapton as guitarist and Keith Richards.

A book detailing the history of the Jimi Hendrix Experience alleges that Mitch Mitchell and Noel Redding were excluded from a share in record sales in their contracts and only made a limited amount from their participation despite most people agreeing that their artistic input was important. Mitch was reportedly forced to sell one of his treasured Hendrix guitars to make ends meet later in his career.

At the time of his death he was touring with a Hendrix tribute act. His death means that all the original members of the original Jimi Hendrix Experience are no longer with us.

November 19, 2008