Folkestone guitarist who rocked the world with Jimi Hendrix takes centre stage in town!

ByEd

Nov 4, 2024

A view of the Noel Redding exhibition Photo: Ray Duff

By Ray Duff

Get ready to crank up the volume and dive into the electrifying life of Folkestone’s own Noel Redding! A brand new exhibition explodes at the Folkestone Museum, celebrating the iconic bass guitarist who rocked the world with the Jimi Hendrix Experience.

This three-month extravaganza is a deep dive into Redding’s journey, bursting with vibrant music posters from his career. Explore personal mementos, groove on behind-the-scenes treasures from his time with Hendrix, and discover his other musical ventures.

From Folkestone to Fame!

Born in 1945, Redding’s passion for music ignited early. He jammed with local bands by 17, his talent eventually leading him to join forces with the legendary Hendrix and drummer Mitch Mitchell in 1966. Did you know Hendrix even crashed at Redding’s family home during an early UK tour?

Exhibition-goers flock to the exhibition after the opening Photo: Ray Duff

The band played locally at the former Hillside club, sadly long since gone, which was located on the section of Dover Road beside Payers Park. They also played at the original Tofts near where Grace Hill joins Foord Road.

The exhibition takes you on their global conquest, exploring Redding’s rise to fame alongside Hendrix. But the story doesn’t end there. Uncover Redding’s decision to branch out, forming the Noel Redding Band and leaving his mark on the music scene.

He later played on tour with a number of other bands, especially the Fat Mattress group from 1968, before forming the Noel Redding Band after moving to Ireland in 1972. Thereafter he continued to tour until his untimely death aged just 57 in 2003.

Celebrate a Local Legend!

At the opening of the latest exhibition, project leader Steve McCarthy spoke of how Redding joined Jimi Hendrix and some of his later bands, before joining Noel’s niece, Lace Redding who opened the display alongside the deputy Mayor of Folkestone Cllr Lucy McGirr and later joined by local MP Tony Vaughan after which celebrations continued with a music event at the nearby 20thC Speedway venue.

MP Tony Vaughan (left) joins members of the project group Photo: Ray Duff

Join the celebration as the exhibition kicks off on November 5th, 2024, running all the way through January 31st, 2025. Mingle with fellow music enthusiasts, explore incredible artifacts, and immerse yourself in Redding’s legacy.

This is more than an exhibition – it’s a call to action! Witness Redding’s impact first hand and support the project’s mission to raise funds for a statue in his honour, ensuring his memory lives on. Don’t miss this chance to rock out with Folkestone’s own musical hero!