English Section

7,967 guitarists play Hendrix in Poland, break record

02.05.2023 00:05
A group of 7,967 guitarists got together in the southwestern Polish city of Wrocław on Monday to perform Jimi Hendrix’s hit “Hey Joe,” beating the Guinness world record for ensemble playing.
Guitar players gather in Wrocławs market square.
Guitar players gather in Wrocław's market square.Photo: PAP/Maciej Kulczyński

The previous record of 7,676 guitarists was set a year ago at the annual Thanks Jimi Festival, a tribute to the legendary rock musician who died in London in 1970.

The first Thanks Jimi Festival in 2003 saw 588 guitarists turn up in Wrocław’s market square for the event originated by musician Leszek Cichoński after he once found himself on stage playing Hendrix music with 17 other guitarists at a blues workshop.

Past guest performers at the festival have included American guitar virtuosos Al Di Meola and Scott Henderson and musicians from the British bands Status Quo and Dire Straits.

This year’s gathering included American guitarists Steve Vai, Michael Angelo Batio and Vasti Jackson, Polish state news agency PAP reported.

(gs)

Source: PAP