Robert Plant Honors Terry Reid, The Voice He Once Rejected

Robert Plant has paid tribute to Terry “Superlungs” Reid, whose death was announced on March 15, 2024. Reid, a significant figure in rock music, is well-known for his connection to Plant and his pivotal role in the formation of Led Zeppelin. When approached by Jimmy Page to front the New Yardbirds, Reid made the momentous decision to recommend a young Plant instead. This recommendation ultimately led to the creation of the iconic band Led Zeppelin.

Reflecting on Reid’s influence, Plant stated, “Terry Reid’s enthusiasm and encouragement were incredible back then.” The two musicians, still teenagers at the time, frequently attended each other’s performances, sharing a love for music that defined their early years. Plant reminisced, “We crashed each other’s gigs and crucified Season Of The Witch time and time again. So much fun. So on it. He was all of everything. Such charisma.”

Plant went on to praise Reid’s remarkable vocal abilities, noting, “His voice, his range. His songs, capturing that carefree era. Superlungs, indeed.” He expressed a deep sense of gratitude, saying, “He catapulted me into an intense new world he chose to decline.” As a poignant tribute, Plant mentioned listening to Reid’s album The River and shedding tears for “my brother in arms.”

The story of Reid’s decision to turn down the opportunity with Led Zeppelin has multiple interpretations. One version suggests that Reid declined due to scheduling conflicts with a tour featuring The Doors and Jefferson Airplane. Another account claims he was committed to performing in the United States with the Rolling Stones, while others suggest that Page hesitated to approach Keith Richards to negotiate Reid’s release from his existing commitments. A further perspective is that Reid rejected the offer because Page could not match his earnings with the Stones.

Despite the varying accounts, it is clear that Reid played a crucial role in the early days of Led Zeppelin. He recommended Plant and drummer John Bonham to Page after sharing stages with their pre-Zeppelin band, The Band Of Joy, on numerous occasions.

Plant and Reid reunited on stage in 2004 at The Joint in Los Angeles, where Reid performed every Monday for four years. During the performance, Plant humorously remarked, “This man should have had my life… mind you, I’m not sure he’d want it!” Reid responded with a smile, “I wouldn’t mind some of the money!”

The legacy of Terry Reid continues to resonate within the music community, with his contributions and choices reverberating through the careers of those he influenced. As fans and fellow musicians reflect on his life, his impact on rock history remains undeniable.