4 Songs by Famous Artists That Feature Jimmy Page as a Session Musician

Before Jimmy Page became a household name as the mastermind behind Led Zeppelin, he was already making waves in the music industry. In the bustling London music scene of the early 1960s, Page was one of the most sought-after session guitarists. His technical skill and creative flair led him to collaborate with a variety of artists, often behind the scenes. While many fans know him for his iconic riffs and stage presence, few realize just how many classic tracks feature his guitar work long before Zeppelin. Today, we’ll explore four songs by famous artists where Jimmy Page’s talent shines, even if his name wasn’t on the marquee. Let’s dive into the hidden legacy of this guitar legend. 00:33 Jimmy Page’s journey to stardom took a pivotal turn in 1966 when he joined The Yardbirds, initially replacing bassist Paul Samwell-Smith. Quickly, he switched to guitar, teaming up with Jeff Beck to create a dynamic two-guitar sound that would influence rock music for decades. This period was crucial, not just for Page’s development as a musician, but also for the evolution of classic rock itself. The Yardbirds became a breeding ground for innovation, and Page’s contributions set the stage for what would become Led Zeppelin. But even before this, his session work was already leaving a mark on the industry. 01:01 Long before he was a rock superstar, Jimmy Page was quietly building a reputation as one of London’s top session guitarists. Producers and artists alike sought him out for his versatility and ability to elevate any track. From pop ballads to bluesy rock numbers, Page’s guitar could adapt to any style. This behind-the-scenes work not only honed his skills but also allowed him to collaborate with some of the biggest names in music. It’s in these early sessions that Page’s signature sound began to take shape, setting the foundation for his later success. 01:25 One of the first major hits to feature Jimmy Page as a session musician was Marianne Faithfull’s “As Tears Go By” in 1964. Written by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, the song was originally intended for The Rolling Stones, but their manager felt it didn’t suit the band’s style. Instead, the song was given to 17-year-old Faithfull, who delivered a haunting performance. Page played a 12-string guitar on the track, adding a rich, melodic layer that helped propel the single to No. 9 on the UK charts and No. 22 on the Billboard Hot 100. This collaboration marked the beginning of Faithfull’s career and showcased Page’s ability to enhance any song. 01:57 The story of “As Tears Go By” is deeply intertwined with The Rolling Stones. Mick Jagger and Keith Richards penned the song, but it was their manager, Andrew Loog Oldham, who decided it was better suited for a female vocalist. This decision not only launched Marianne Faithfull’s career but also highlighted the interconnectedness of the British music scene at the time. Jimmy Page’s involvement as a session guitarist further cements the song’s place in rock history, bridging the worlds of pop, rock, and folk in a single, memorable track. 02:22 In 1964, Jimmy Page lent his guitar skills to the Belfast-based band Them, fronted by a young Van Morrison. Their cover of the blues standard “Baby, Please Don’t Go” became the band’s first major hit, reaching No. 10 on the UK singles chart. Page’s energetic guitar work added a raw edge to the track, helping define the band’s gritty sound. This wasn’t his only collaboration with Them—he also played on “Mystic Eyes” and “Here Comes The Night,” both of which found success in the US. These sessions highlight Page’s versatility and his knack for enhancing a song’s emotional impact.