Mitch Mitchell dies, aged 61

By Chris Barnes
published

Rhythm is sad to announce that legendary drummer Mitch Mitchell, most notable for his work with the Jimi Hendrix Experience in the '60s, has died. He was found dead in his US hotel room yesterday morning.

BBC News reports that Mitchell was discovered in the Benson Hotel in Portland, Oregon, in the early hours of Wednesday.
A medical examiner told the Associated Press news agency the death appeared to be from natural causes but that there would be an autopsy.

Mitchell had been touring the States with the Experience Hendrix Tour. Janie Hendrix, Chief Executive of the tour and step-sister of Jimi Hendrix, paid tribute to Mitchell saying, "He was a wonderful man, a brilliant musician and a true friend."

Mitchell drummed for Hendrix at his legendary Woodstock performance and performed on Hendrix classics such as 'Are You Experienced?', 'Electric Ladyland' and 'Axis: Bold As Love'. He also played with the likes of Eric Clapton, John Lennon, Keith Richards and Muddy Waters through his varied and pioneering career.

Look out for a tribute in Rhythm soon.

Chris Barnes
Chris Barnes

I'm MusicRadar's eCommerce Editor. In addition to testing the latest music gear, with a particular focus on electronic drums, it's my job to manage the 300+ buyer's guides on MusicRadar and help musicians find the right gear for them at the best prices. I dabble with guitar, but my main instrument is the drums, which I have been playing for 24 years. I've been a part of the music gear industry for 20 years, including 7 years as Editor of the UK's best-selling drum magazine Rhythm, and 5 years as a freelance music writer, during which time I worked with the world's biggest instrument brands including Roland, Boss, Laney and Natal.