We’ve added Hendrix’s single Twisted to our rotation here on Phoenix FM – and we caught up with Hendrix to talk about his life and music.
Tell us a little bit about your yourself?
I was raised in the military. My father served as a US Marine for 22 years, so I grew up all over the world. I saw many different cultures, but also, heard many different types of music. My family was very musical, with my father being the most influential in life. I learned a lot about the rock classics, as well discovering my own tastes in music.
When did you first start to develop a passion for music?
I would say I started developing a passion to play music in my freshman year of high school. Everybody in my family played at least one instrument except for myself, at that time. I was discovering music of all genres and wanted to learn how to play it. My father got me an acoustic guitar that year and starting teaching me the basics of music and guitar.
I bought a few tab sheets of my favourite songs at the time and kept learning new chords and styles. I then started rearranging the chords into new structures and started writing my own songs.
Which artists did you listen to while growing up?
As I stated previously, I try to listen to different styles of music and different artists. The one band that really got my attention was New Order. I really was amazed at how they could get such a big sound with only four musicians. Obviously, I didn’t realise at the time how they were using sequencers, synthesizers, etc to get such big sounds.
I guess I latched on to that as I incorporate some of those ideas in my music. Another aspect of New Order that I really appreciate is how they would incorporate different instruments or how they used their instruments in unique ways.
How would you describe your music to someone who hasn’t heard you before?
I think it’s very evident that New Order does play a very big part in my music. However, I think my songwriting is stylised from some of the songwriting styles from the 60s and 70s. I feel that blend represents who I am personally and musically.
What music have you recorded and released to date?
Twisted will be the seventh song I have released as Hendrix. Twisted is also the 6th episode of a music video series. The previous releases are “Dreams Fade”, “Release”, “Dispirited”, “Be Someone”, “Water” (not part of the series) and “Missing In Space”. All songs are available through multiple media outlets and the videos are available on my YouTube channel or my official website.
Which artists do you enjoy listening to at the moment – and do they influence your work?
I am always searching for new music, so it’s hard to say anyone specifically influences my work. I’m more about keeping up to date with the production of my music and making sure it’s current for today’s listeners.
Some artists that are in my playlist today are BENEE, Billie Eilish, Mallrat, The Griswolds, Superorganism, Dizzy, Young the Giant and so on. They all influence me in some way.
Who would your dream collaboration be with?
I would say Darius Rucker. I’ve been a huge fan of his for a long time. He’s put out a lot of great music, but fandom is more about the tone of his voice. I have a few ideas that I would like to try with him behind the mic.
What are your plans for the future?
My future is where ever it goes with music. I just love the songwriting, production, playing, etc. Is there ambition to make it more? Yes, there is, but the enjoyment of creating a song then hearing played back is reward in itself.
Hendrix’s website has a lot more information about his releases, including links to social media and streaming services as well as blogs and merchandise. You can find out more at hendrixmusic.net.
