Jimi Hendrix's Final Concert: Chaos and Tragedy

Eric Barrett, who served as Jimi Hendrix's roadie from 1968 to 1970, has shared harrowing details of the rock legend's final official concert. The performance on the Isle of Fehmarn in August 1970 was overrun by Hells Angels, leading to violence and theft among attendees. Barrett described the scene as terrifying, with the outlaw motorcycle club taking over the venue and chasing off security. Hendrix, witnessing the chaos, retreated to his room before taking the stage to boos from a hostile crowd. Following the concert, as Barrett ushered Hendrix and the band to waiting cars, they were surrounded by bikers. Barrett sustained an injury when he shielded a tour manager from a blow by a Hells Angel. Hendrix expressed concern for Barrett, asking, "Are you OK, Eric?", which were his last words to the roadie. Jimi Hendrix was found unresponsive at his girlfriend Monika Dannemann's apartment on September 18, 1970, and later pronounced dead at age 27. An autopsy determined Hendrix died of asphyxia while intoxicated with barbiturates, an accidental overdose of sleeping pills prescribed to Dannemann. Barrett firmly refutes conspiracy theories surrounding Hendrix's death, including allegations against his former manager, Mike Jeffery. He shared memories of Hendrix's shy and kind nature off-stage, contrasting with his electrifying stage presence. Barrett recalled a particularly touching birthday gift from Hendrix, who gave him $500 to buy something he truly wanted. In their final plane ride together, Hendrix, despite his fame, expressed insecurity about his legacy, asking Barrett if he would be remembered.