There’s likely very little that manages to impress Jimmy Page in the realm of rock music. Given the influence Led Zeppelin has had on numerous bands, it’s likely that Jimmy Page encounters a fair share of imitators as well as the occasional group that shares his passion for bluesy tunes. While nothing can replicate the enchantment that Zeppelin possessed during their early years, Page was still astounded by Paul Rodgers’ vocal prowess.
Prior to his involvement with Zeppelin, Page had the opportunity to collaborate with a notable lineup of talented vocalists. Previously collaborating with Keith Relf in The Yardbirds, Page embarked on his solo journey with a clear vision in mind. He approached Terry Reid and Steve Marriott to join an early incarnation of Led Zeppelin before ultimately finding Plant.
Page had no trouble finding talented blues singers. During the era of the Summer of Love, a vibrant music scene was thriving in Britain, showcasing talented blues singers who often hailed from the United States. Amidst Fleetwood Mac and The Bluesbreakers, Free emerged as a remarkable supergroup, leaving their mark on the club scene.
With the incredible guitar skills of Paul Kossoff stealing the spotlight, it was Rodgers who truly shone on stage. His soulful and bluesy sound was a perfect blend of Janis Joplin’s powerful vocals and Marriott’s unique style. When Kossoff passed away due to a drug overdose, Zeppelin was devastated. They were determined not to let one of the greatest voices of their generation succumb to the same fate.
With the addition of Boz Burrell on bass and Mick Ralphs from Mott the Hoople, Bad Company emerged. They were a blues-infused band that could hold its own against the likes of Zeppelin. Their talent caught the attention of Page, who saw enough potential in them to sign them to Swan Song, their label. Despite lacking firsthand experience with the group, Page recognized Rodgers as a top-notch professional in his field.
Although Page was already experiencing immense success, he expressed his belief that Rodgers’s voice was instrumental in elevating the group’s protégés. In an interview with Uncut, Page acknowledged that Bad Company was primarily Peter Grant’s project. Grant, the manager for Led Zeppelin, had a hand in assembling Bad Company. Paul Rodgers in the band made it truly exceptional. He is absolutely outstanding. He remains the same, both then and now.
Compliments are nice, but Rodgers achieved something truly remarkable: having the legendary Jimmy Page perform alongside him. Following the disbandment of Zeppelin, Rodgers played a pivotal role in supporting Page’s comeback. He laid the foundation for The Firm during Bad Company’s break.
Many vocalists have attempted to imitate Plant’s singing style with varying degrees of success. However, Rodgers’s deep and soulful blues tone is likely more influential than many people realize. When you hear the soulful, low tones in songs like ‘Bad Company’ or ‘Shooting Star’, it’s reminiscent of Eddie Vedder’s deep baritone voice. This later became influential to many aspiring singers. Rodgers possessed a bluesy soulful quality in his voice. This, even though grunge wasn’t around back then, may have unknowingly influenced the vocal technique used in alternative rock.
