Original Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster Showcased by Dweezil Zappa

Original Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster brought into Norman’s Rare Guitars by Dweezil Zappa

In this video with the owner of Norman’s Rare Guitars, Dweezil Zappa shows off the guitar that Jimi Hendrix gave to his father, Frank Zappa, and gives the backstory on the exchange after the Miami Pop Festival in 1968.

Jimi Hendrix and the Experience were in the middle of recording Electric Ladyland when they were offered headline status on the 1968 Miami Pop Festival, the first Rock festival staged on the East Coast. According to Dweezil’s retelling of the story from his father, Jimi gifted him the guitar after the concert, and was later discovered by Dweezil in the house in several pieces. Frank then gave the guitar to his son, Dweezil, and the rest, as they say, is history:

Dweezil shows the back of the guitar:

If you’ve watched this video and you’re disappointed that Dweezil didn’t play the guitar – You’re not alone! After a little digging I came across this very short news piece with more background on its intended sale, and a few clips of Dweezil actually playing the guitar. Not what we were all hoping for, but something to satiate your curiosity:

Dweezil is an incredible guitar player in his own right. My first exposure to his music was the album Confessions from 1991, which featured a number of guest artists and guitar solos. He is one guitar player definitely worth checking out!

Do you have any favorite Dweezil albums, solos or live appearances? Share in the comments below!