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Thousands of guitarists to play Hendrix in Poland

29.04.2025 23:45
Thousands of musicians are expected to flock to the southwestern Polish city of Wrocław on Thursday for an annual attempt to break the Guinness world record for the largest guitar ensemble playing Jimi Hendrix’s hit "Hey Joe."
Guitar players gather in Wrocławs market square.
Guitar players gather in Wrocław's market square.Photo: PAP/Maciej Kulczyński

Among the expected performers are American guitarists LeBurn Maddox and Al Anderson.

Last year, 7,531 guitarists took part in the event but fell short of the standing record of 7,967 set in Wrocław in 2023.

That gathering featured musicians including Chris Jagger, brother of Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger; British guitarist Phil Bates; and American guitarist Neil Zaza.

The event, known as the Thanks Jimi Festival, is a tribute to the legendary rock musician who died in London in 1970.

The festival began in 2003, when Polish musician Leszek Cichoński organised a gathering of 588 guitarists in Wrocław’s market square. It was inspired by a moment at a blues workshop when he unexpectedly found himself on stage playing Hendrix tunes with 17 other guitarists.

Over the years, the festival has featured guest appearances by guitar virtuosos such as Al Di Meola and Scott Henderson, as well as musicians from bands such as Status Quo and Dire Straits.

(gs)

Source: IAR, PAP