Legendary Guitarist Terry “Superlungs” Reid, Who Turned Down Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple, Dead at 75
via Music Mongoose / YouTube
Terry Reid, the British guitarist and singer known for his powerful voice and unique musical style, has died at the age of 75 after a battle with cancer. Often called “Superlungs” because of his strong vocal range, Reid influenced many musicians during the late 1960s and 1970s. His passing has brought a wave of tributes from the music world, with Joe Bonamassa calling him “one of the greatest to ever do it and a beautiful person and soul.”
Earlier this year, Reid was forced to cancel a European tour because of health problems caused by cancer treatment. In July, his family and close friends organized a fundraiser to help with the costs of his care. Despite his illness, Reid stayed connected to music, and his impact continued to be recognized by fans and fellow musicians. His death marks the end of a long and respected career in rock, blues, and beyond.
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Turned Down Two Major Bands
Reid is often remembered for turning down two major offers in rock history. In the late 1960s, Jimmy Page invited him to be the lead singer of a new group that would become Led Zeppelin. Reid said no, choosing to focus on his own projects. Instead, he recommended Robert Plant for the role and also told Page to hire drummer John Bonham. “Not only is Robert perfect, you’ve got to get the drummer – he’s an animal!” Reid recalled in a 2023 interview.
He also turned down Ritchie Blackmore’s offer to front Deep Purple. Reid believed joining a band would limit his style and freedom. “When you’re in a band, you’re committed to that style,” he said. “You’re not gonna be able to play any of that Brazilian music you like, cos they don’t do that.” His choices reflected a desire to stay true to his own taste and direction.
Aretha Franklin’s Praise and Major Tours
In 1968, soul legend Aretha Franklin included Reid in a list of England’s top talents, along with The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. That rare praise from someone of Franklin’s status boosted his credibility, even if he never became a household name. Her comment showed how respected he was among his peers.
Reid toured with some of the biggest rock acts of the time, including The Rolling Stones, Cream, Jethro Tull, and Fleetwood Mac. He performed at iconic events like the Isle of Wight Festival in 1969 and Glastonbury in 1970. His live shows earned him a loyal following and respect across genres.
Collaborations and Soundtrack Work
Throughout his career, Reid released seven studio albums and often worked with other artists. He collaborated with Graham Nash and did session work for Jackson Browne and Bonnie Raitt. His voice and songwriting also made their way into movies, with tracks featured in Up in the Air and The Devil’s Rejects.
Even though Reid stayed outside the spotlight for much of his career, he influenced many well-known musicians. He may not have led a supergroup, but he helped shape the sound of rock in ways that are still felt today.
