Joe Walsh recounts a memorable story about a significant transaction that highlights his generosity and his keen eye for musicianship. The story begins with Jimmy Page, legendary guitarist of Led Zeppelin, still playing the Telecasters that he had used during his time with the Yardbirds. Despite his mastery with those instruments, Jimmy was on the hunt for a Les Paul—a guitar renowned for its rich tone and iconic status—yet he couldn’t seem to find one that truly resonated with him. Recognizing Jimmy’s search and his own collection of guitars, Joe recalls that he had two Les Pauls, but he kept the one he favored the most. The other, he decided, could be a gift to a fellow musician who truly needed it.
Joe Walsh explains that he flew with the guitar, emphasizing that he personally hand-carried it to ensure its safety and to keep expenses transparent. He laid the guitar on Jimmy and told him to try it out, and Jimmy immediately responded positively, liking the feel and sound of the instrument. Recognizing the significance of the moment and Jimmy’s appreciation, Joe offered him a very favorable deal—charging only what it cost him to acquire and transport the guitar, with no markup. The motivation behind this gesture was simple yet heartfelt: “I just thought he should have a Les Paul, for God’s sake!” Joe’s generosity was rooted in his respect for Jimmy’s artistry and understanding how much a good guitar can mean to a musician.
What makes this story even more compelling is the subsequent chapter in the guitar’s history. Jimmy Page used that very Les Paul to record Led Zeppelin II in May of that year. The guitar’s significance deepened as it became a core part of Jimmy’s arsenal. Throughout the years with Led Zeppelin, the guitar remained his favorite—his “number one,” as he would come to refer to it. Despite acquiring other guitars over time, this particular Les Paul held a special place in Jimmy’s heart, symbolizing not just a tool for musical creation but also a story of friendship, trust, and the shared passion for music.
Joe Walsh’s story encapsulates the spirit of camaraderie among musicians—an act of kindness that transcended monetary value. It also highlights how a single guitar can become an integral part of a legendary sound and a musician’s identity. The Les Paul Jimmy received from Joe Walsh was more than just an instrument; it was a catalyst for some of Led Zeppelin’s most iconic recordings. Its journey from Walsh’s collection, through his generosity, to Jimmy’s hands, and ultimately to legendary recordings, illustrates the profound impact that such gestures can have on the history of music. It’s a story of friendship, respect, and the enduring power of music to connect and inspire.
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