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In 1969, Joe Walsh gave a guitar away to Jimmy Page. Two years later, he wrote one of the greatest solos of all time
Joe Walsh gave Jimmy Page a guitar in 1969, a gesture later linked to Page’s celebrated solo on Led Zeppelin’s ‘Stairway to Heaven’. Walsh has praised the solo as one of rock’s finest, recognising Page’s distinctive style and the song’s lasting importance.
The article says Page used a Fender Telecaster for the solo, despite being associated with his Les Paul, and notes that Walsh heard familiar touches in its closing flourish. It also recalls Walsh lending Pete Townshend a guitar that featured in work on The Who’s ‘Who’s Next’, presenting his generosity as part of his influence on fellow musicians.
In short
- Walsh gave Page a guitar in 1969.
- Page’s ‘Stairway to Heaven’ solo became a landmark performance.
- Walsh heard echoes of his own playing in its closing flourish.