Every legendary figure has a backdrop of both uplifting and challenging experiences. Jimi Hendrix’s life story is deeply marked with these dualities. From a young age, Jimi Hendrix and his brother Leon Hendrix pushing through tough times, much of it stemming from their father’s, Al Hendrix, mistreatment. Their struggles were further compounded by the family’s financial circumstances and the absence of their mother, Lucille Jeter.
Often, their parents would be out for the night, to drink and dance, leaving Jimi with the responsibility of looking after his younger brother. The emotional weight of these early experiences was profound, but nothing impacted Jimi as deeply as the untimely death of his mother, Lucille Jeter, in 1958 due to alcoholism. Hendrix was only 15 at the time.
This profound loss resonates through many of his songs, with “Little Wing” and “Angel” standing out as heartfelt tributes.
Lucille Jeter was born on December 27, 1925, in Seattle, Washington. In the face of racial segregation and personal challenges, she showed resilience, always aiming to provide a better life for her children. In 1942, she became a mother to Jimi Hendrix and played a pivotal role in nurturing his passion for the guitar, instilling in him a deep emotional connection to music.
Songs Inspired by Jimi Hendrix’s Mother, Lucille Jeter
Jimi Hendrix’s musical brilliance shines magnificently on his 1967 second album, “Axis: Bold as Love,” giving birth to two emotionally charged songs, “Little Wing” and “Angel.” These tracks, embedded within the album, are a profound tribute to his mother, Lucille Jeter, capturing the essence of their unbreakable bond.
“Little Wing,” a soul-stirring masterpiece, delicately expresses Jimi’s admiration and appreciation for his mother. The song’s tender lyrics and intricate guitar work evoke a sense of protective warmth, akin to the comforting presence of a guardian angel. Every note resonates with heartfelt emotions, showcasing the depth of their connection.
In a similar vein, “Angel” is another treasure that echoes Jimi’s immense gratitude for Lucille Jeter’s unwavering love and guidance throughout his life. The lyrics of the song reflect a genuine appreciation for the sacrifices she made to nurture his musical dreams. Together, these songs serve as a beautiful musical tribute to the influential and loving presence of Lucille Jeter in Jimi Hendrix’s life.
“Little Wing”
Well she’s walking through the clouds
With a circus mind
That’s running wild
Butterflies and zebras and moonbeams
And-a fairly tales
That’s all she ever thinks about
Riding with the wind
When I’m sad she comes to me
With a thousand smiles
She gives to me free
“It’s alright”, she says
It’s alright
Take anything you want from me
(Take anything)
Anything
Fly on, little wing
Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Jimi Hendrix
Little Wing lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
“Angel”
Angel came down from heaven yesterday
She stayed with me just long enough to rescue me
And she told me a story yesterday
About the sweet love between the moon and the deep blue sea
And then she spread her wings high over me
She said she is going to come back tomorrow
And I said, “Fly on my sweet angel
Fly on through the sky
Fly on my sweet angel
Tomorrow I’m gonna be by your side”
Sure enough this morning came unto me
Silver wings silhouetted against the child’s sunrise
And my angel she said unto me
“Today is the day for you to rise
Take my hand, you are gonna be my man
You are going to rise”
And then she took me high over yonder
And I said, “Fly on my sweet angel
Fly on through the sky
Fly on my sweet angel
Forever I will be by your side
Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Jimi Hendrix
Angel lyrics © Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd
Lucille Jeter’s love and influence played a vital role in shaping Jimi Hendrix’s musical journey, leaving behind a lasting legacy of heartfelt songs and inspiration. Despite the tumultuous relationship between Lucille and her son, marked by her inclination towards nightlife and alcohol, occasionally leaving her young son seemingly ‘abandoned,’ the enduring impact of her influence on Jimi remains both devastating and eternal.
Even with her untimely death, Lucille’s imprint on Hendrix’s creative spirit transcended the challenges of their complex connection. The emotional depth found in iconic tracks like “Little Wing” and “Angel” stand as a testament to the profound impact Lucille had on her son’s musical genius. Through the highs and lows, her influence persists, revealing the complexity of their relationship and how, even in adversity, a mother’s love can leave an indelible mark on the world of music.
Credit: findagrave
Credit: rockronologia
Listen below to the most distinctive presence of Lucille Jeter in Jimi Hendrix’s songs.
