Musician Terry Reid dies aged 75: Star nicknamed ‘Superlungs’ who once turned down offer to join Led Zeppelin passes away after cancer battle

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Musician Terry Reid has died at the age of 75.

Known as ‘Superlungs’, this talented musician is well-known for rejecting invitations to become a member of both Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple bands.

He sadly lost his life after fighting against cancer, as confirmed by his UK representative on Tuesday. His devoted wife, Annette, remains surviving him.

Following the necessity to delay a tour he had planned for last month because of his cancer treatments, sadly, his demise occurred. This tour was slated to kick off in Wolverhampton on September 11th.

In July, a message on his social media platform announced that Terry’s upcoming UK, Irish, and Norwegian tour in the fall of 2025 needed to be rescheduled because he is facing health complications related to his recent cancer treatment.

Terry is particularly disappointed because his 2024 tour was incredibly successful and he was eagerly anticipating performing in new towns and venues, along with revisiting favorites, as well as setting foot in Norway for the first time.

A little over a week ago, he posted an image on Instagram about the funding for his courageous health fight.

‘The message reads: “From deep within, I express my sincere gratitude to each one of you. It’s hard for me to put into words just how meaningful your kindness is to me right now. Every bit of love and encouragement you’ve shown is contributing significantly to my recovery.”‘

The star, from Cambridgeshire, was initially part of local group the Redbeats as a teenager.

He then supported Peter Jay and the Jaywalkers and was then asked to join the latter band. 

At age 16, he was accompanying The Rolling Stones during their tour, which is where he caught the attention of Jimmy Page from Led Zeppelin for the first time.

Last year, I shared with The Guardian that I chose to pursue my own path instead of joining a band. Simply put, I was determined to do things my way!

In 2023, he disclosed that he had been quite close with Keith Richards from The Rolling Stones. Later, Keith invited him to accompany The Stones on their U.S. tour, but soon after, Jimmy asked him to join his freshly formed band instead. This put him in a difficult position.

Ultimately, I left the decision up to Jimmy. I told him, “It would be best if you talk to Keith and let him know I won’t be attending.” However, Jimmy chickened out.

He stated: “I refused for him to wound me in the leg, and even then, Keith was well-known. Consequently, I traveled to America with The Rolling Stones. I also performed with them at Altamont.

Terry politely declined Ritchie Blackmore’s invitation to become the lead singer for Deep Purple, expressing that it was a great compliment and Ritchie was an exceptional guitarist.

Later on, I was fortunate enough to ink a management and recording agreement with Mickie Most, a seasoned professional who guided me through the production of my initial two studio albums.

Or:

After that, I landed a deal in management and recording with Mickie Most, who became my mentor during the creation of my debut albums.

After his death this week tributes flooded in including from fellow musician Joe Bonamassa.

Bonamassa expressed: “Farewell, dear companion. It was truly a privilege to develop our friendship and to learn from you as a musical guide.

1. I’ll really look forward to our future meetups and tales in Palm Springs. Truly exceptional, both in character and spirit.

2. Our times together in Palm Springs – the chats and yarns – will be deeply missed. An extraordinary individual with a beautiful heart and soul.

3. The memories we made in Palm Springs – our shared stories and moments – will be dearly missed. One of the greatest I’ve ever known, with a truly beautiful spirit inside and out.

4. Our good times in Palm Springs – the conversations and anecdotes – are something I’ll miss greatly. A remarkable person, both in character and soul.

5. The laughter and reminiscences we shared in Palm Springs will be deeply missed. One of the greatest to grace this earth and a truly beautiful soul.

‘Rest in peace Terry Reid. My deepest condolences to his family on this terrible day.’

Many fans were deeply saddened by his passing, expressing their feelings online: “If only I could leave flowers for you, Terry.

Tonight, I’ll light a candle and fill our home with the echoes of your voice. May you find tranquility, for you’ve brought us immense joy.

Another said: ‘R.I.P you shining star.’

Another wrote: ‘I appreciate each note, each word, each emotion you shared. Your voice held a purity – something enduring. May you find peace, Terry. You left behind a wealth of gifts.’

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2025-08-05 22:31