The complete collection of Jimi Hendrix's celebrated appearances on The Dick Cavett Show. The Dick Cavett Show marked Jimi's US network television debut and this special documentary, directed by multiple Grammy Award winner Bob Smeaton, features complete live performances of "Izabella", "Machine Gun", and "Hear My Train A Comin'" as well as new interviews with Cavett, Experience band members Mitch Mitchell and Billy Cox, and others. Jimi's own insightful interviews with Cavett touched upon a variety of personal and professional issues ranging from his stint as a US Army paratrooper to his celebrated rendition of the "Star Spangled Banner" at the Woodstock Festival. These conversations with Cavett helped reveal the humor, passion, and intelligence of the man behind such rock classics as Are You Experienced and Electric Ladyland.
Acting
Hendrix's shy charisma—awkward genius completely disarming Cavett.
Direction
Smeaton interweaves performance and interview with perfect rhythm.
Sound
'Machine Gun' live—raw, politically charged, still explosive.
Director
Bob Smeaton
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
This 1969 appearance came weeks after Woodstock, making it Hendrix's first chance to explain the infamous anthem to Middle America—on their terms, in their living rooms.
Cavett later said Hendrix was his favorite guest ever—despite producers warning him the 'wild' rock star might destroy the set. He brought flowers instead.
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