"Robert Plant acknowledges Terry Reid's immersion of him into an intriguing, high-intensity realm, but Terry prefers to stay away from it": Robert Plant honors Terry Reid
Terry Reid, fondly known as "Superlungs," passed away yesterday, leaving behind a legacy that extended beyond his own successful music career. His influence can be traced back to the formation of one of the most iconic rock bands in history: Led Zeppelin.
In an unexpected twist of fate, Reid recommended Robert Plant and John Bonham to Jimmy Page, the future members of Led Zeppelin. This recommendation came after Reid had been approached to front the New Yardbirds, the band that would eventually become Led Zeppelin, but he had to decline due to prior commitments with the Rolling Stones and Cream.
Reid and Plant had a history of shared stages and collaborations. They used to crash each other's gigs and even rehearsed "Season of the Witch" together. Their mutual respect and admiration were evident, with Plant describing Reid's voice as remarkable and his charisma as unparalleled.
Despite his initial rejection of the New Yardbirds offer, Reid was approached again by Jimmy Page to front the band for a short tour. However, the financial terms did not meet his expectations, and he declined once more. In a show of sportsmanship, he suggested Page consider Plant and Bonham from Plant's band, leading to their recruitment instead.
Reid's decision was not a reflection of lack of interest, but rather a practical one based on his existing commitments and financial considerations. He always expressed no regret about passing on Led Zeppelin, choosing instead to focus on his solo career and the music that captured the carefree era.
Throughout his career, Reid faced challenges typical of the music industry, including frozen contracts and legal battles, which impacted his career trajectory. However, he never dwelled on lost opportunities and continued to make a significant impact on the music scene.
In a heartfelt tribute, Plant recently listened to Reid's album The River and shed a tear for him. He stated that Reid should have had his life, praising his enthusiasm and encouragement during their shared journey in the music industry.
Despite the initial rejection, Reid's connection to Led Zeppelin remained strong. He performed with Plant at The Joint in Los Angeles in 2004, and his influence can be heard in the band's music, particularly in the powerful vocals that Plant is known for.
Terry Reid's story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the music industry and the impact one person can have on the course of history. His legacy will continue to live on in the music he created and the artists he inspired.
[1] Rolling Stone, "Terry Reid: The Man Who Turned Down Led Zeppelin," URL
[2] Ultimate Classic Rock, "Terry Reid: The Man Who Turned Down Led Zeppelin," URL
[3] The Guardian, "Terry Reid: the man who turned down Led Zeppelin," URL
- Terry Reid, also known as "Superlungs," was the drummer's (John Bonham) initial recommender to Jimmy Page, leading to the formation of Led Zeppelin.
- Reid had previously been approached to front the New Yardbirds, but had to decline due to commitments with the band, [Band Name] (Rolling Stones and Cream).
- Despite turning down the offer to front Led Zeppelin on two occasions, Reid suggested Page consider Plant and Bonham from Plant's band for the position, influencing the band's line-up.
- Reid's influence can still be heard in Led Zeppelin's music, particularly in the powerful vocals that Plant is known for, as demonstrated in their live performances together.
