Hendrix reportedly used a press conference or a Rolling Stone article to expose Gallagher to the world. No one really knows to this day. Even though there is no evidence to support the claimed event’s date and time, many historians and Hendrix enthusiasts believe it to be real.
All things considered, the intriguing thing about Hendrix’s recognition of Gallagher is the questions it raises. Did Gallagher meet him? How did his music seem to him? If so, what impact did it have on Jimi Hendrix? All of the questions have ambiguous answers, which adds to the mystery surrounding Hendrix’s remarks and Gallagher’s life.
Hendrix’s remarks regarding Gallagher and his abilities were succinct, witty, and direct. “How does it feel to be the greatest guitarist in the world?” a reporter asked Hendrix. According to reports, Hendrix said, “Go ask Rory Gallagher; I don’t know.” Given that most people were just unfamiliar with the Irish musician, this seemed to be a perplexing response.
That would change for Gallagher, though, as Hendrix referred to him as “the greatest guitarist in the world” as he rose from a modest Irish guitarist. Despite Hendrix’s assertion drawing some attention to Gallagher, he never achieved widespread recognition as a guitarist throughout his lifetime. Actually, like many famous musicians, Gallagher didn’t become extremely famous until after his death in 1995.
Other musicians that have praised Gallagher include Bob Dylan, The Edge, and Brian May, if you find Hendrix’s story a little too lofty. In fact, May referred to him as a “magician…as an entertainer.” Rory Gallagher is an essential listen because of his legendary fanbase.
A profound guitarist who frequently defied convention, Gallagher’s style encompasses both Chicago and delta blues. “It seems a waste to me to work and work for years” and “just turn into some sort of personality,” he actually told Rolling Stone. Therefore, Rory forced everyone to follow him as he marched to his own beat.