Terry Reid, rock legend, played at the Green Hotel, Kinross, Scotland a few weeks ago and I was lucky enough to be there to photograph him in action.
He has had an amazing career as a rock vocalist and guitarist that stretches back four decades. “I’m a legend in me own yard,” he quipped. “It’s a big yard, though.”
Reid is better known for the things he hasn’t done, than for those he has. He’s the fellow who turned down the job of vocalist with the band that became Led Zeppelin, only to then send a rejection note to Deep Purple. Listen to one of the handful of albums he has made – 1973′s River, for example – and you can see why the offers were made. Back then Reid’s powerful, gymnastic vocal talents arguably eclipsed those of his better-known contemporaries: Rod Stewart, Paul Rodgers, Steve Marriott.
During the gig Terry, who was absolutely awesome spoke of his meetings with Crosby, Stills and Nash as well as time he spent with George Harrison and Ringo Starr who became friends, as did Jimi Hendrix. “He was the sweetest guy,” Reid said. “He picked up my guitar at a gig and starts ripping the same licks he played, but left-handed, upside down. I was depressed enough when he played normally.”
The crowd at the intimate venue were enthralled by Reid’s unplugged performance, which was masterful.
