First Rays of the New Rising Sun cover

First Rays of the New Rising Sun

Jimi Hendrix · 1997

70 min · 17 tracks · hard rock · psychedelic rock · blues rock

A vibrant tapestry of blues-infused rock that showcases Hendrix's unparalleled guitar artistry and lyrical depth.

Why listen to this

Best for
steady pacing for reflective moments gradual peaks of emotional depth vibrant energy for afternoon drives
Context
Released posthumously in 1997, 'First Rays of the New Rising Sun' compiles Jimi Hendrix's unreleased tracks from the early 1970s. This album serves as a window into his creative process during a transitional phase, following his groundbreaking work on 'Electric Ladyland' in 1968. The collection reflects Hendrix's evolving sound and artistic vision before his untimely death in 1970.
If you like
hard rock, psychedelic rock, blues rock

First Rays of the New Rising Sun is an album by Jimi Hendrix, released in 1997. A vibrant tapestry of blues-infused rock that showcases Hendrix's unparalleled guitar artistry and lyrical depth. 'First Rays of the New Rising Sun' is significant not only for its rich musical content but also for its critical reception, often celebrated for revealing Hendrix's diverse songwriting talents. The album reached number 4 on the Billboard 200 chart, highlighting its commercial impact and solidifying Hendrix’s legacy as a profound influence on rock music. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

New to Jimi Hendrix? Read our guide on where to start.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does First Rays of the New Rising Sun sound like?

A vibrant tapestry of blues-infused rock that showcases Hendrix's unparalleled guitar artistry and lyrical depth. Rooted in hard rock and psychedelic rock.

What makes First Rays of the New Rising Sun by Jimi Hendrix notable?

'First Rays of the New Rising Sun' is significant not only for its rich musical content but also for its critical reception, often celebrated for revealing Hendrix's diverse songwriting talents. The album reached number 4 on the Billboard 200 chart, highlighting its commercial impact and solidifying Hendrix’s legacy as a profound influence on rock music. Released posthumously in 1997, 'First Rays of the New Rising Sun' compiles Jimi Hendrix's unreleased tracks from the early 1970s. This album serves as a window into his creative process during a transitional phase, following his groundbreaking work on 'Electric Ladyland' in 1968. The collection reflects Hendrix's evolving sound and artistic vision before his untimely death in 1970.

Who is First Rays of the New Rising Sun for?

First Rays of the New Rising Sun works well if you're into steady pacing for reflective moments, gradual peaks of emotional depth and vibrant energy for afternoon drives.

How many songs are on First Rays of the New Rising Sun?

First Rays of the New Rising Sun has 17 tracks, running approximately 70 minutes.

Tracklist

17 tracks·70:07

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Freedom Standout 3:28
  • 2 Izabella 2:51
  • 3 Night Bird Flying 3:53
  • 4 Angel Standout 4:23
  • 5 Room Full of Mirrors 3:23
  • 6 Dolly Dagger 4:45
  • 7 Ezy Ryder Standout 4:10
  • 8 Drifting 3:50
  • 9 Beginnings 4:14
  • 10 Stepping Stone 4:14
  • 11 My Friend 4:38
  • 12 Straight Ahead 4:44
  • 13 Hey Baby (New Rising Sun) 6:06
  • 14 Earth Blues 4:23
  • 15 Astro Man 3:36
  • 16 In From the Storm 3:43
  • 17 Belly Button Window 3:36

Release Date

April 22, 1997

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

70 min 7 sec