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Linda Keith: The Rolling Stones muse who discovered Jimi Hendrix
Linda Keith, a London-born model and blues fan, helped bring Jimi Hendrix to the attention of the music industry after seeing him perform in New York in the mid-1960s. Though dating Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards, she was struck by Hendrix’s playing and set out to secure him recognition and a record deal, a turning point in his career.
Keith first invited Stones manager Andrew Loog Oldham and music executive Seymour Stein to see Hendrix, but neither encounter immediately led to a breakthrough. At one performance Hendrix smashed a Fender Stratocaster that belonged to Richards, angering Keith; later, she took former Animals guitarist Chas Chandler to see him at Cafe Wha?, where his performance of “Hey Joe” impressed Chandler and began their professional relationship.
In short
- Linda Keith recognised Hendrix’s talent in New York.
- She introduced him to Chas Chandler.
- Chandler’s interest helped launch Hendrix’s career.