Little Wing
Hendrix’s Lyrical Masterpiece in Miniature
“Little Wing” is one of the most emotionally resonant tracks in Jimi Hendrix’s catalog—a brief, two-and-a-half-minute studio gem that distills his poetic sensibility and melodic finesse into a single, floating moment. Released on Axis: Bold as Love in December 1967, the track was recorded at Olympic Studios in London and showcases Hendrix’s ability to conjure entire worlds with just a few notes. His guitar tone is warm and shimmering, enhanced by subtle touches of glockenspiel, Leslie speaker swirl, and tape delay, all sculpted under the careful ear of engineer Eddie Kramer.
Though short in duration, “Little Wing” is rich in texture and structure. Hendrix’s clean Stratocaster tone, tuned a half-step down, glides through a gentle chord progression filled with double-stops, embellishments, and expressive bends. The lyrics evoke a mystical feminine figure—part angel, part muse—who offers comfort and escape. This ethereal imagery echoes the dreamlike storytelling found in “Castles Made of Sand,” where Hendrix explores themes of impermanence and emotional fragility.
The trio’s interplay is subtle but essential. Mitch Mitchell’s drumming is spacious and responsive, while Noel Redding’s bass provides a soft harmonic anchor. The production is intimate, with stereo imaging used to create a sense of movement and depth. “Little Wing” closes with a fade-out that feels like a sigh—an emotional release that mirrors the psychedelic crescendo of “Bold as Love,” the album’s title track and spiritual bookend.
“Little Wing” has become a rite of passage for guitarists across genres, covered by artists from Stevie Ray Vaughan to Eric Clapton. Yet Hendrix’s original remains unmatched—a fleeting, transcendent performance that captures the soul of his artistry in under three minutes.
Performance Details
| Song Title | Little Wing |
|---|---|
| Guitarist | Jimi Hendrix |
| Band | The Jimi Hendrix Experience |
| Lineup | Jimi Hendrix (guitar/vocals), Mitch Mitchell (drums), Noel Redding (bass) |
| Album/Release | Axis: Bold as Love |
| Recording Studio | Olympic Studios |
| Record Label | Track Records / Reprise |
| Location | London, England |
| Date | October 1, 1967 |
💬 What does “Little Wing” mean to you?
Share your thoughts, memories, or what this song stirs in you—your perspective adds to the story Hendrix started.