'Scuse me, while I kiss the sky

Almost 2,000 musicians have gathered in the Polish city of Wroclaw to play a rock anthem by Jimi Hendrix. The guitarists were aiming to set a new Guinness World Record by gathering 1,876 guitarists in the city's market square to play Hey Joe.

Organizers say it was the biggest guitar ensemble in recorded history, though Guinness has not yet officially confirmed the feat.

The event brought together young musicians and rock veterans, both local and from hundreds of kilometres away.


Jimi Hendrix claimed 30 years ago, "With the power of soul anything is possible," said the gig's organiser, Polish blues guitarist Leszek Cichonski leader of an impromptu band called The Magnificent Seven. (seen Left)

The city's mayor, Rafal Dutkiewicz, was among the participants.

The organisers say the Thanks Jimi Festival, held for the fifth time this year, will keep growing.

Next year, they want to invite more guitarists in many parts of the world to play together; the event would be broadcast online and shown on video screens.

A number of cities, including New York, are said to have expressed their interest.

Jimi Hendrix with Polish colors

Source: BBC News, Wroclaw 5/1/07