West 8th Street in New York has officially been named Jimi Hendrix Way. The ceremony took place on June 10 at the intersection of Sixth Avenue and West 8th Street in Greenwich Village.
The new street name is just one block away from Hendrix’s legendary Electric Lady Studios. The event was held after being postponed due to heavy snowstorms in February of this year.
A Long-Standing Initiative
The campaign to rename the street was led by New York City Council Member for District 2, Harvey Epstein, along with the Experience Hendrix organization that manages Hendrix’s legacy. Hendrix’s sister, Janie Hendrix, said they have been requesting this honor from the city for years following her brother’s death.
Janie Hendrix explained that they once ran a petition campaign at Electric Lady Studios to have the street renamed after Jimi Hendrix. She also mentioned their efforts to have Hendrix’s face featured on a postage stamp, which was realized years later.
Epstein emphasized that Hendrix remains an important symbol for the neighborhood. He remembered Hendrix not only as a groundbreaking musician but also as a powerful voice for peace, racial equality, and social justice.
Who Attended the Ceremony?
The event was attended by Vernon Reid from Living Colour, songwriter and vocalist Valerie Simpson, Felicia Collins from the Late Show with David Letterman, and engineer Eddie Kramer, who played a role in the creation of Electric Lady Studios. Stevie Van Zandt was also present.
Van Zandt used the occasion to announce a new national partnership for his educational initiative TeachRock. The program will offer free online lessons and resources centered on music for core subjects like history and language arts for elementary school students.
Continuing Hendrix’s Legacy Through Education
Janie Hendrix said this collaboration aims to advance her brother’s legacy through education. She highlighted that Hendrix’s music is a powerful gateway for young people to connect with history, creativity, and their own potential.
Stevie Van Zandt added that Hendrix didn’t just play guitar; he redefined what art could be. He expressed hope that through TeachRock, students will experience the sense of discovery many felt when they first heard Hendrix’s music.
The Jimi Hendrix Way sign was unveiled at the corner of Sixth Avenue and West 8th Street, symbolically close to Electric Lady Studios. Footage from the ceremony was shared following the event.