We catch up with Zach Person to find out more as he pays tribute to Jimi Hendrix while rocking out on an Epiphone “Love Drops” Flying V
Emerging indie-rock sensation Zach Person has released an electrifying take on Jimi Hendrix’s legendary track “If 6 Was 9”. This Gibson Spotlight Artist is known for his raw, high-energy performances and modern twist on classic rock and blues. Person brings his signature style to this iconic Hendrix anthem.
Accompanying the single release, Person also debuted a stunning music video that not only showcases his dynamic stage presence but also features the Epiphone Jimi Hendrix™ “Love Drops” Flying V™—a tribute to one of rock’s most influential guitarists.
“I wanted to honor Hendrix’s fearless creativity while bringing my own sound into the mix,” says Zach. “Recording this song was a powerful experience, and performing it with the ‘Love Drops’ Flying V made it even more special.”
The track is available now across all major streaming platforms and the video is available on YouTube—ensuring fans worldwide can witness this fiery homage to Hendrix’s legacy. We recently had an opportunity to delve into his current thoughts about the album and tone itself.
What is your excitement level for your second album? Is there a standout track that folks should dive into first? “If 6 Was 9,” perhaps?
“‘If 6 Was 9’ has always been one of my favorite Hendrix tunes. From the first two notes, it pulls you in and transports you to another world. I connect deeply with the layers of meaning in the lyrics and the musical backdrop.
“The idea of being boldly and unapologetically yourself—despite what society expects—is something I navigate every day. Carving your own path isn’t easy, but when you break through, those victories feel massive. I’ve chosen to double down on who I am as an artist, resisting the temptation to chase trends for an ‘easier’ or ‘more direct’ career path. I’ll keep making the music I believe in, whether or not the industry is paying attention—until they have no choice but to.”
Tell us about the Hendrix connection. What have you learned from him as a player that could only come from his work?
“If you’re a guitar player post-1970, you’re inevitably connected to Jimi Hendrix. The foundation he laid influenced every guitarist who came after him. How many musicians can say that? Not many. One of the biggest things I’ve taken from Jimi is his free and abstract approach to soloing. He could lock into the groove with tight syncopation, then stretch time, or even completely step outside of it—intentionally.
“I first discovered that kind of freedom playing trio shows. When the bass and drums lock into a heavy groove, as a lead guitarist, you can almost stop time—kind of like Zack from Saved by the Bell—and just float in the space they create. It’s pure freedom. Then, when you’re ready to come down to Earth, you snap back into the meter, and it all comes together again. Hendrix did that all the time in his live sets. In those moments, the guitar disappeared, and it became one powerful signal shooting out into the atmosphere.”
Is your guitar of choice still an SG? What kind of tones are you craving these days?
“Funnily enough, most of my favorite players are Strat® guys. I spent my teenage years playing a Strat, then Telecasters®—which I still enjoy—before discovering my love of Gibson guitars. I think my playing style—approaching Gibsons with a technique more associated with F-style players—is a part of my distinct sound.
“For electrics, I’m a big fan of 1950s P-90-equipped Les Pauls™ and 1960s P-90 SGs. My ‘67 SG™ Special has become a signature for me on stage, but lately, I can’t put down this White VOS ‘63 SG Custom. Historically, I’ve leaned toward P-90s, probably because I grew up on single-coil tones, but recently, I’ve been appreciating the depth of a good, unpotted humbucker™.
“Currently, I’ve been experimenting with the so-called Jimmy Page mod, unscrewing the pole pieces on the neck pickup. I do the bridge as well. It’s a cool sound—kind of nudges you into P-90 territory, minus the hum.”
Get more insights from Zach Person and grab a Jimi Hendrix™ “Love Drops” Flying V today.
