Why are people trying to claim that Jimi Hendrix is not Black?

Question

Ever since the Obama-McCain thing has began, racial tensions have been very high at school.

One day when I was hanging out with the "rock kids" the discussion of Jimi Hendrix came up.

A certain race of kids got really mad that one kid mentioned that Jimi was one of the best rockers ever and that he was Black.

They got offended or intimidated or whatever and started claiming that Jimi hendrix was not Black.

So I was like "What are you talking about"?

They got mad and started saying racist things.

So I'm like "Why are you mad"?

And some of them tried to claim that Hendrix was Native American or something.

And so I said "Theres alot of Blacks that are part Native American due to the fact that some kept Blacks as slaves or whatever........Their parents are apart of the Freedmen or something. I would know since my dads side of the family is partly Native. But that doesn't mean that I'm not Black. h**l.....I'm FULLY BLACK and PROUD."

The kids got mad and left.

Answer 1

I think Jimi Hendrix was both.

Answer 2

i just think those particular kids were stupid...we all know jimi hendrix is black.  

Answer 3

I'd never heard such a thing.  He sure looked black to me.

I recently saw an interview with another black Woodstock performer, Richie Haven.  What I found really interesting about this musician's outlook was that his identification was of being part of the generation and not so much of a race.  

Richie.  Welcome to my generation.

Answer 4

I'm not going to comment on your story, but I will comment on Jimi Hendrix being of mixed race heritage.  There are many celebrities and famous American icons who are of mixed race, including Malcolm X.   However, those who are biracial or multiracial are often forced to identify with one race...if a person is black and white, then they are considered black.  You shouldn't concern yourself with such pointless discussions.  Jimi Hendrix is known for his abilities, not the color of his skin.  

Answer 5

I think you answered your own question: Some people are afraid of racial issues and feel intimidated. When they do, they make up all kinds of things.

Answer 6

Well, I think he was a native American; he was born here as far as I know. And he was black. And he was an incredible guitar player.

I've never understood pride in skin pigmentation but if it's what you need to do that's all right.

Answer 7

NO one ever claimed he wasn't. Where does someone like you come up with such bullshit exactly?

Answer 8

Jimi Hendrix was one of the coolest cats ever...in any color.

Far as I know he was as black as anybody else is ethnically speaking.

If everybody was as cool as Jimi, the world would be a better place.

As far as being  a human being I think Jimi Hendrix probably would have personally resented being identified as any particular color as a primary designator...he was just that cool and above it all.