Being a session musician sounds like an intriguing profession. Your role involves assisting other artists in perfecting their recordings and achieving the best possible outcome for their work. Unfortunately, you may encounter criticism from some of these artists. Artists prefer to personally perform the songs they have written for their albums, rather than having someone else play them. It feels inappropriate to have someone who is unfamiliar with the band or the song take over. Which leads to a generally negative perception of session musicians. This is exactly how Pete Townshend felt towards Jimmy Page when The Who was recording one day.
Jimmy Page began his journey as a touring musician. However, due to health issues during his time on the road with Neil Christian and the Crusaders, he made the decision to shift his focus to the studio. He had a unique approach to playing and recording styles. This quickly caught the attention of labels who sought his assistance on various songs.
One of the tracks that Jimmy Page almost contributed to was one of The Who’s early recordings. During the recording of ‘I Can’t Explain‘, producer and songwriter Shel Talmy seemed to have doubts about Pete Townshend’s playing skills. As a precaution, they asked Jimmy Page to wait outside the studio with his guitar, ready to step in if needed. Townshend must have experienced an awful sensation. Fortunately, they did not need Page, as The Who guitarist delivered a flawless performance.
It’s interesting to consider how The Who’s sound could have been transformed if Page had performed at that event and eventually replaced Townshend in the band. Townshend’s significant contribution to The Who’s artistic vision and approach to creating concept albums is undeniable. Without him, the band’s identity would have been fundamentally altered. However, their chances of achieving success would still have been quite high.
The combination of Roger Daltry’s powerful vocals and Jimmy Page’s intricate guitar style would have been a perfect match. It would be fascinating to explore how The Who’s narratives about ordinary individuals would transform when replaced with mythical creatures from a fantastical realm.
Let’s imagine this pairing for a moment. Townshend effortlessly delivered his guitar parts with exceptional skill, while Page found himself excluded from the studio. It’s definitely a good thing, though, because we’ve had the privilege of witnessing The Who and Led Zeppelin at the height of their musical prowess. Their timeless compositions have become iconic classics and have left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape.
Like many session musicians, Page garnered high regard and influenced many aspiring players in the 1960s with his guitar skills. However, it was often disappointing for people to see him with a guitar, as it usually meant he wouldn’t be performing that day.
