Terry Reid English rock musician, singer and guitarist. Date of Birth: 13.11.1949 Country: Great Britain

1. Terry Reid: Early Years and The Jaywalkers
2. Solo Success and American Tour with Cream
3. Led Zeppelin's Early History and Deep Purple
4. Albums, California, and Atlantic Records
5. Session Work and Solo Return
6. Later Collaborations and Legacy

Terry Reid: Early Years and The Jaywalkers

Terry Reid's musical journey began at the tender age of 15 when he joined Peter Jay's band, The Jaywalkers. In 1966, the band made a significant appearance as an opening act for The Rolling Stones at the Royal Albert Hall. This led to a record deal with Columbia Records, brokered by Graham Nash of The Hollies.

Solo Success and American Tour with Cream

After the Jaywalkers disbanded, Reid embarked on a solo career. His first single, "Better by Far," recorded with producer Micky Most, achieved chart success. Reid's breakthrough came in 1968 when he joined Cream on their American tour. His electrifying performance at the Miami Pop Festival caught the attention of music critics and led to numerous British tours, including ones with Jethro Tull and Fleetwood Mac.

Led Zeppelin's Early History and Deep Purple

Reid's talent caught the eye of Jimmy Page. When The Yardbirds disbanded, Page offered Reid the lead vocalist position in his new band. While Reid declined due to contractual obligations, he suggested a young Birmingham vocalist named Robert Plant, ultimately playing a pivotal role in the formation of Led Zeppelin. Similarly, he declined an offer to replace Rod Evans in Deep Purple, paving the way for Ian Gillan.

Albums, California, and Atlantic Records

Reid's debut album, "Bang, Bang You're Terry Reid," reached the American Top 200 but was not released in the UK. His second album, simply titled "Terry Reid," is widely regarded as his best work. Following its release, he toured with The Rolling Stones once again. In 1969, he parted ways with Micky Most and relocated to California. After a brief return to England for the Isle of Wight festival in 1970, he signed with Atlantic Records in 1973 and released the critically acclaimed but commercially unsuccessful album "River."

Session Work and Solo Return

In the following years, Reid switched labels several times before transitioning to session work in 1981. He collaborated with renowned artists such as Don Henley, Jackson Browne, and Bonnie Raitt. In 1991, Reid returned with a new solo album, "The Driver," produced by Trevor Horn. The single "The Whole of the Moon" enjoyed moderate chart success and received significant airplay on American radio.

Later Collaborations and Legacy

Since then, Reid has performed sporadically, collaborating with artists such as Brian Auger and Mick Taylor of the Rolling Stones. Terry Reid's influence on rock music remains undeniable, as his powerful vocals and expressive guitar playing continue to captivate audiences to this day.