HENDRIX, JIMI johnny b. good S18-5003

Live Fury on a Mini-Album: Jimi Hendrix’s ‘Johnny B. Goode’ (S18-5003)

Today’s entry focuses on a concise but powerful release from the mid-80s Hendrix archival wave. We are examining the 1986 Japanese White Label Promo pressing of Johnny B. Goode, a 12-inch mini-album released on Capitol Records with the catalog number S18-5003.

A Soundtrack to the Stage

Released on August 22, 1986, this mini-album served as the original soundtrack for the Sony Video release of the same name. Produced by Alan Douglas and Chip Branton, it compiles incendiary live performances from two key sources: the Atlanta International Pop Festival and the Berkeley Community Theatre. Side A features a tight edit of “Voodoo Child” and a cover of Chuck Berry’s “Johnny B. Goode” that showcases Hendrix’s ability to turn rock standards into psychedelic firestorms. However, the true centerpiece for collectors is Side B, which features a monumental, 11-minute version of “Machine Gun” recorded at Berkeley. Backed by Billy Cox on bass and Mitch Mitchell on drums, this track captures the improvisational genius and sonic fury that defined Hendrix’s final touring lineups.

Exclusive White Label Promo

This specific copy is a highly desirable Promo Sample. Unlike the standard commercial releases, the vinyl disc bears the clean, text-only White Labels with the Japanese characters for “Sample (Not For Sale).” These promotional copies were the first off the line, distributed to radio stations and industry insiders, and are often sought after for their superior audio fidelity. A numbered “Sample” sticker is also affixed to the back cover, certifying its non-retail provenance.

Japanese Archival Quality

Manufactured by Toshiba EMI Ltd., this 12-inch release is a high-quality pressing that offers a significant sonic upgrade over standard compilations of the era. The package is complete with the original Obi strip (listing the ¥1,800 price point) and a lyric insert featuring English lyrics and Japanese text. It stands as a perfect, condensed document of Hendrix’s live power.