Iconic Rock Singer Who Turned Down Offers to Front Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple Has Died
ENGLAND, AUG 5 – Terry Reid, known as 'Superlungs,' declined lead singer roles for Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple and influenced rock music despite limited commercial success, dying after battling cancer.
- On Tuesday, Terry Reid, British singer-songwriter and guitarist, died at 75 following a cancer battle, the American Music Society confirmed.
- In recent months, Reid's health deteriorated due to cancer treatment, forcing him to cancel tour dates and fall ill before a scheduled show at The Cube in Malvern.
- Reid suggested Robert Plant and John Bonham for Led Zeppelin, earning the nickname `Superlungs`, after turning down lead singer roles in Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple.
- His Malvern show on September 28 has been cancelled, removing his scheduled performance at The Cube in Malvern next month, according to official statements.
- Crowdfunding via GoFundMe sought to cover Reid's medical expenses, and Cleopatra Records confirmed his death a week after the fundraiser began, with tributes from Joe Bonamassa.
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'Rock's Forgotten Genius' Dead at 75
Terry Reid was a deeply respected musician who released six albums over a long career, but he might be best known for the path he didn't take. The English singer, songwriter, and guitarist, who has died at age 75, turned down the lead role in the band that became Led...
One of the most underrated voices in British rock has passed away. Terry Reid, a singer with a unique singing charisma, died after a battle with cancer on August 4th at the age of 75. He was revered by fans and rock legends alike. His story is a remarkable one.

Robert Plant's tribute to singer Terry Reid who turned down Led Zeppelin
Terry Reid Dies: British Rock Legend Who Turned Down Offers To Join Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple Passes Away at 75 of Cancer | 🎥 LatestLY
British singer and songwriter Terry Reid died on Monday, August 4, 2025. He was widely known as the musician who denied offers from rock bands Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple to join them. Reid was reportedly suffering from cancer. The news of his demise was confirmed by his record label. 🎥 Terry Reid Dies: British Rock Legend Who Turned Down Offers To Join Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple Passes Away at 75 of Cancer.
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