Rock veteran buried near his West Cork ‘spiritual home’

THE funeral took place in Clonakilty, Co Cork, yesterday of Noel Redding, the man who played bass with one of rock’s most famous outfits, the Jimi Hendrix Experience.

Among those paying their respects to the man who in later years choose West Cork as his spiritual home was 60's folk legend Donovan.

Other well-known mourners included broadcaster Jim O'Neill and Corkman Joe Mac, who began his career in show business as drummer with The Dixies showband.

Noel Redding was a member of the Jimi Hendrix Experience from its formation in 1966 until he left in 1969. His recruitment was reportedly due in some part to his look a huge afro and his trademark granny glasses.

In addition to his work in the Experience, Redding formed and played guitar in Fat Mattress, who released two albums in the late 60's and early 70's.

In the mid-70's, the Noel Redding Band did two albums for RCA, three tours of Holland, two tours of England, one tour of Ireland, and a 10-week tour of America. Redding, who lived in Ardfield, near Clonakilty, claimed he had been "forced to sign away my royalties" in 1974.

"I even had to sell the bass I used during that time with the Experience for $16,000."

In 1996 Redding published his autobiography, entitled "Are You Experienced?"