Terry Reid, the influential British singer known for turning down offers to front Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple, has died at the age of 75. A powerful voice in rock and soul, Reid’s career intersected with major acts of the 1960s and ’70s. Despite limited commercial success, he left a lasting legacy.
Here’s what we know so far about Terry Reid’s death.
Terry Reid cause of death explained
Terry Reid, the British rock and soul singer nicknamed Superlungs, died at the age of 75 following a battle with cancer.
His UK representative confirmed his death to The Guardian on August 5, 2025. A post on his official Instagram page had previously announced the postponement of his autumn 2025 tour due to medical issues from cancer treatment.
Born in Cambridgeshire in 1949, Reid began performing in his teens and joined Peter Jay and the Jaywalkers before supporting the Rolling Stones at age 16. By 1968, Jimmy Page approached him to join a new band that would become Led Zeppelin, but Reid declined due to prior touring commitments with the Stones. He recommended Robert Plant and John Bonham instead. “I contributed half the band – that’s enough on my part!” Reid told The Guardian in 2024.
He also turned down an offer from Ritchie Blackmore to front Deep Purple after Rod Evans’ departure. “It was very flattering. Ritchie was one hell of a guitar player,” Reid said.
Reid signed with Mickie Most and released two studio albums: Bang Bang, You’re Terry Reid and the self-titled Terry Reid, which included songs like “Without Expression” and “Speak Now or Forever Hold Your Peace.” Following a contractual dispute with Most, he resumed his career with the 1973 album River and moved to California.
Reid collaborated with Bonnie Raitt, Don Henley, and Jackson Browne and worked with Trevor Horn on The Driver. He later reworked Seed of Memory with Dr. Dre and his rappers, calling it “a fascinating experience.” Joe Bonamassa wrote, “One of the greatest to ever do it, and a beautiful person and soul.” Reid is survived by his wife, Annette.
Originally reported by Vritti Johar on ComingSoon.net.
