Noel Redding 1945-2003

The rock 'n' roll world has lost another of its greats with ex-Jimi Hendrix Experience bassist Noel Redding dying on Sunday at his West Cork home. He was 57.
The news was announced by his manager and Track Records boss Ian Grant who said, "I have been working with Noel for going on two years. He was a legend in my mind and meeting the man has been very special. Noel reunites with Jimi and his mother Margaret who died only a few weeks ago."
Cutting a dash with his huge Afro and trademark granny glasses, Redding joined the Experience at its inception in 1966 and stayed on board until 1969 when he left to concentrate on his Fat Mattress side-project.
Although he made enough from his endeavors to move here in the early '70s, Redding felt short-changed by the Hendrix estate.
"I was forced to sign away my royalties in 1974," he remarked. "I even had to sell the bass I used during that time for $16,000."
Thankfully, the legal wrangling did nothing to dampen his enthusiasm for performing and Redding remained a regular fixture on the Cork club circuit up till his death. He also put in an appearance at the 2001 Hot Press Music Awards in Belfast and was one of the judges last year at the Bacardi Hot Press Plugged competition.

UPDATE May 14:
Gardai have suggested that Redding died of natural causes. Meanwhile, the Jimi Hendrix estate with whom Redding was involved in a long-term dispute, have issued the following statement: "We at Experience Hendrix mourn the loss of Noel Redding. His contributions to the Jimi Hendrix Experience shall never be forgotten. Our prayers go out to his family and friends during this difficult time."