Rock legend Terry Reid, who famously turned down offers to front Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple, has passed away at the age of 75. His death follows a long battle with cancer.
Reid’s UK representative confirmed the news on Tuesday, August 5, but did not disclose his cause of death. The singer had been forced to postpone an upcoming tour due to worsening health issues, which he announced on Instagram in July.
A GoFundMe page set up for Reid last month detailed his courageous fight against cancer and other serious health issues. The page stated that the financial strain from medical bills was becoming overwhelming.
Born in Cambridgeshire, England, Reid rose to prominence as a teenager with Peter Jay and the Jaywalkers. He later supported the Rolling Stones on tour at 16 and was approached by Jimmy Page to join Led Zeppelin. However, Reid turned down the offer, recommending Robert Plant and John Bonham instead.
Reid also declined an offer from Ritchie Blackmore to join Deep Purple after Rod Evans left the band in 1969. Despite turning down these opportunities, Reid maintained his independence as a musician and artist.
Tributes have poured in for the legendary singer-songwriter, with friends and fellow musicians remembering him as a powerful vocalist and beautiful person. Joe Bonamassa wrote on Instagram: “Rest in peace Terry Reid. My deepest condolences to his family on this terrible day.”
Source: https://nypost.com/2025/08/05/entertainment/rocker-terry-reid-who-turned-down-led-zeppelin-dead-at-75