10 Greatest Tribute Songs In Rock History

10. Oh, Thank You Great Spirit - Chicago

On September 18th 1970, the music world lost one of the greatest and most idolised talents it has ever known.

Jimi Hendrix passed away at the age of just 27 in his London apartment, after a short life lived to the max. His unique style of guitar playing had revolutionised the musical landscape and he is still regarded as one of the greatest axe-wielders of all time.

So, who was the obvious choice to step up and write a tribute song for the great man?

Soft rock afficionados Chicago, of course!

The group behind If You Leave Me Now gave us Oh, Thank You Great Spirit on their 1975 album Chicago VIII.

It was written and sung by guitarist Terry Kath, whom Hendrix allegedly called a better player than himself during his lifetime. Clearly wanting to pay the favour back, Kath created this winding seven minute long ode to Jimi's various musical styles, performed in the likeness of the fallen legend.

It's clear from this loving imitation that Kath had a great respect for the man. Hopefully that's the case, and he wasn't just trying to cash in on a death that happened five years earlier...