With a nod to today’s lead story, we had a hankerin’ for a little Hendrix this week, and specifically the guitar god’s classic “Purple Haze.”

Sure, there were other considerations: “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple (that certainly would have been appropriate!); “Black Smoke’ Rising” by the great Led Zeppelin soundalike Greta Van Fleet; Iron and Wine’s “Cinder and Smoke,” and, of course, “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes” by The Platters.

Or perhaps if you’re of an age, “Free Smoke” by Drake, Chance the Rapper’s “Smoke Break,” or “Holy Smokes” by somebody called Trippie Redd (ok, I didn’t listen to that one).

Tough choices (almost) all, as were many more, but it’s a clear case of gimme Jimi as most of the us in this country (and beyond), hide inside from the fumes, undoubtedly watching YouTube videos, like this one from 1967.

Lyrics

Purple haze all in my brain
Lately things just don’t seem the same
Actin’ funny, but I don’t know why
‘Scuze me while I kiss the sky

Purple haze all around
Don’t know if I’m comin’ up or down
Am I happy or in misery?
Whatever it is, that girl put a spell on me

Help me help me
Oh no no… No

Yeah
Purple haze all in my eyes
Don’t know if it’s day or night
You’ve got me blowin, blowin my mind
Is it tomorrow or just the end of time?

No, help me aw yeah! Oh no no oh help me…