Bah, fuck the charts. Who cares about what the demographic is for hits?
I really don't want to get into this but played what existed very fast? Are you kidding? Hendrix provided an excellent fusion of blues and rock, versatility, and great songwriting that went on to be probably the most influential guitarist, especially to metal players. Hell, even the guitarists of his own era started copying him by buying Strats. Saying he only played fast is ridiculous and plain ignorant, hell he could fret all six strings with the top joint of his thumb, and play both lead and rhythm at the same time. He perfected trick playing and innovative ways such as his version of the Star Spangled Banner mixed with mocked sounds of bombs and gunfire. His sound alone is in it's own circle. The public wanted him mainly for his hits, but he knew his skills were going beyond his other material. The public never realized this as well, too many goddamn people overlook non-hits when looking at most artists. He's in his own circle IMO, but whatever.
Everyone I know tells me I overrate his skills, mainly the metal fans at my school. What do they all have in common? They listened to Purple Haze, Foxy Lady, and All ALong the Watchtower at least once in their life.