About the song
“If 6 Was 9” is one of the most iconic and thought-provoking songs by the legendary Jimi Hendrix, released in 1967 on his album Axis: Bold as Love. The song, with its distinctive blend of psychedelic rock and Hendrix’s masterful guitar work, is a prime example of his ability to push musical boundaries while delivering a deeply personal and socially conscious message. With its cryptic lyrics and bold musical experimentation, it has remained one of the defining tracks of both Hendrix’s career and the countercultural movement of the 1960s.
Released as part of the album Axis: Bold as Love, “If 6 Was 9” was an expression of Hendrix’s desire for personal freedom and independence. The title itself is a play on numbers, suggesting a philosophical and slightly rebellious outlook: if things were different—if “6 was 9″—the world could be seen in a completely new way. The song is often interpreted as an anthem of individuality and self-expression, with Hendrix rejecting conventional societal norms in favor of personal liberation. Its message of standing firm in one’s own identity, even when the world around you might seem in chaos, resonated deeply with the counterculture generation.
The lyrics of “If 6 Was 9” are rich with layered meaning, reflecting Hendrix’s own dissatisfaction with societal expectations. In the chorus, Hendrix declares, “If the sun refuse to shine, I don’t mind, I don’t mind,” signifying an attitude of resistance to external pressures. He emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself, regardless of the world’s judgments. The song expresses a freedom from the constraints of mainstream society, a sentiment that was especially powerful during the 1960s, a time of social unrest, political movements, and the rise of the youth counterculture.
Musically, “If 6 Was 9” is a showcase of Hendrix’s unparalleled skill on the guitar. The song opens with a simple but hypnotic guitar riff that sets the tone for the track’s loose, yet tightly controlled energy. As always, Hendrix’s playing is both virtuosic and emotive, capturing the rawness and intensity of the song’s message. The track also features a prominent bassline and vibrant drumming, further enhancing the track’s groovy, psychedelic vibe. The combination of Hendrix’s signature electric guitar sound with the freewheeling rhythm section made this song a perfect reflection of the era’s experimental, boundary-pushing spirit.
“If 6 Was 9” became not just a musical moment but also a cultural one, reflecting the aspirations of the youth movement of the 1960s. The song’s themes of individualism, freedom, and defiance resonated deeply with those who sought to break away from the constraints of traditional social structures. As the 1960s counterculture gained momentum, Jimi Hendrix became one of its most influential figures, and this song, in particular, served as a rallying cry for those questioning authority and looking for personal and artistic freedom.
The social impact of “If 6 Was 9” is still felt today, as it continues to be a symbol of rebellion and authenticity in the face of conformity. For those who lived through the turbulence of the 1960s, Hendrix’s music became a soundtrack to their hopes for a more liberated and inclusive society. The song is frequently cited as a quintessential example of Hendrix’s ability to merge art with activism, using his music to challenge the status quo and inspire change.
In conclusion, “If 6 Was 9” by Jimi Hendrix is much more than just a rock song—it’s a powerful statement of individuality and freedom. Released as part of the 1967 album Axis: Bold as Love, the song captures the essence of the 1960s counterculture while showcasing Hendrix’s innovative guitar skills and his ability to weave personal expression into his music. Through its rebellious lyrics, groovy rhythms, and unforgettable guitar riffs, “If 6 Was 9” remains one of the most important and enduring songs in Hendrix’s legendary catalog, continuing to inspire listeners who embrace the power of music as a tool for personal and social transformation.
Video
Lyrics
[Intro]
Yeah, sing the song for us[Verse 1]
If the sun refused to shine
I don’t mind, I don’t mind (yeah)
If the mountains fell in the sea
Let it be, it ain’t me
(Alright), I got my own world to look through
And uh, I ain’t gonna copy you, yeah[Verse 2]
Now if a 6 turned out to be 9
I don’t mind, I don’t mind, (well alright)
If all the hippies cut off all their hair
I don’t care, I don’t care
Dig, cause I got my own world to live through
And uh, and I ain’t going to copy you[Bridge]
White-collared conservatives
Flashing down the street
Pointing their plastic finger at me
They’re hoping soon, my kind will drop and die
But I’m going to wave
My freak flag high, high ow![Instrumental Break]
Wave on, wave on[Verse 3]
Uh, ha-ha, fall mountains
Just don’t fall on me
Go ahead on Mr. Businessman
You can’t dress like me, yeah
Nobody knows what I’m talking about
I’ve got my own life to live
I’m the one that’s going to have to die
When it’s time for me to die
So let me live my life
The way I want to, yeah
Sing on brother
Play on drummer[Instrumental Outro]