When people think about classic rock in the 1970s, Led Zeppelin is often one of the first bands that comes to mind. With Jimmy Page’s powerful guitar riffs, Robert Plant’s dramatic vocals, John Paul Jones’ musical versatility, and John Bonham’s thunderous drumming, Led Zeppelin became one of the most influential rock bands of all time. But even as Page helped shape the sound of hard rock, he was also a passionate music fan with deep respect for other artists.
Jimmy Page grew up loving music from many styles. Before Led Zeppelin, he worked as a session guitarist in London during the 1960s, playing on countless recordings. This experience helped him develop a wide musical taste. He loved blues, folk, experimental sounds, and even classical and Indian music. Unlike many rock stars, Page was not impressed by fame alone. He admired musicians who had strong roots, originality, and real musical feeling.
Over the years, Page spoke about a few classic rock acts that truly stood out to him. Among them, three names are mentioned again and again: The Rolling Stones, Little Feat, and Jeff Beck.
The Rolling Stones
The Rolling Stones were one of the biggest bands of the 1960s and 1970s, and Jimmy Page respected them deeply. What he loved most about the Stones was their connection to American blues music. Artists like Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf had a huge influence on Page, and he felt the Stones captured that same blues spirit in an honest way.
Page first became interested in the Stones when he was still a young session musician. When he finally saw them perform live, he was impressed by their groove and energy. He especially admired Brian Jones’ authentic blues playing. To Page, the Rolling Stones were not just a popular band — they were true students of the blues who helped bring that sound to a new generation.
Little Feat
One of Jimmy Page’s most surprising favorites was Little Feat, an American band that never reached the same level of fame as Led Zeppelin or the Stones. Little Feat mixed blues, country, rock, funk, and soul into a relaxed, swampy sound. Page once called them his favorite American band, which says a lot about how highly he regarded them.
What Page loved about Little Feat was their feel and musicianship. Their music sounded natural and effortless, with strong rhythms and soulful melodies. Even Robert Plant has joked that Led Zeppelin used to play Little Feat records very loudly while on tour. This shows just how much the band meant to them.
Jeff Beck
Jeff Beck was not just a favorite artist — he was also a close friend and fellow guitar legend. Both Page and Beck played in The Yardbirds during the 1960s, along with Eric Clapton. While Page went on to form Led Zeppelin, Beck followed a more experimental path, exploring blues, jazz fusion, and instrumental music.
Jimmy Page often praised Jeff Beck’s guitar technique, calling it complex, beautiful, and unique. Beck was known as a “guitarist’s guitarist,” respected by musicians across many genres. Page admired Beck’s willingness to push boundaries and try new ideas.
Conclusion
Jimmy Page’s favorite classic rock bands show that he was more than just a rock icon. He was a thoughtful listener who valued blues roots, musical skill, and creativity. Whether it was the raw blues of the Rolling Stones, the soulful grooves of Little Feat, or the innovative guitar work of Jeff Beck, Page’s tastes reflected his deep love for music itself.