R.I.P.: British Guitarist Terry Reid, Played With Led Zeppelin

Terry Reid (1949-2025)

British singer-songwriter and guitarist Terry Reid, a revered talent once pursued by rock giants Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple, has passed away at 75. 

His death was confirmed to USA TODAY on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, by Cleopatra Records, which expressed deep sorrow, describing Reid as a "true original" whose voice could "shake a room or break your heart in a single note." 

In 1973

The label highlighted his warmth, humor, and authentic spirit, noting that working with him was "a pleasure, a lesson, and often, a bit of beautiful chaos." Neither the exact date nor cause of death was specified.

A GoFundMe page created in July revealed Reid had been bravely battling cancer and other serious health issues, which led to the postponement of a planned fall tour.

Born in St Neots, England, in November 1949 to Walter and Grace Reid, Terry showed early vocal talent. As a child, he sang pop songs for orchard workers while accompanying his mother, a seasonal fruit picker, according to his official website. 

By 15, Reid joined Peter Jay and the Jaywalkers, connecting with producer Mickie Most, known for work with the Animals and Donovan. In 1966, as part of the Jaywalkers, Reid toured the U.K. alongside rock icons like The Rolling Stones, Ike and Tina Turner, and The Yardbirds. When The Yardbirds dissolved, Jimmy Page recruited Reid for what became The New Yardbirds, later evolving into Led Zeppelin.