Yes, Jimmy Page did play on Donovan's 1968 hit single "Hurdy Gurdy Man." His contribution, alongside that of future bandmate John Paul Jones, was a significant moment in music history, predating their formation of the iconic rock band Led Zeppelin.
Key Contributions to "Hurdy Gurdy Man"
The recording of "Hurdy Gurdy Man" featured a notable lineup of session musicians, including Jimmy Page on guitar and John Paul Jones on bass. This collaboration provided an early glimpse of the powerful musical synergy that would later define Led Zeppelin.
Originally, the legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix was considered for the session, but due to scheduling conflicts or other circumstances, Jimmy Page stepped in to contribute his distinctive guitar work to the track. This uncredited session work was a common practice for highly sought-after musicians like Page and Jones during the late 1960s.
Personnel on "Hurdy Gurdy Man" (Key Instrumentalists)
| Instrument | Musician | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Vocals & Guitar | Donovan | The primary artist and songwriter. |
| Guitar | Jimmy Page | Contributed to the distinctive sound. |
| Bass | John Paul Jones | Laid down the rhythmic foundation. |
| Drums | Clem Cattini | A prolific session drummer. |
| Keyboard/Organ | John Paul Jones | Also contributed on keyboards. |
The Significance of Page and Jones' Involvement
The fact that both Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones worked on "Hurdy Gurdy Man" is a testament to their established reputations as versatile and talented session musicians before achieving global superstardom with Led Zeppelin. Their collaboration on this track highlights:
- Early Synergy: It offered an early instance of the musical chemistry between Page and Jones, which would become a cornerstone of Led Zeppelin's sound.
- Session Work Expertise: Both musicians were highly in-demand for their ability to adapt to various musical styles and contribute effectively to recordings, showcasing their professionalism and skill.
- Historical Context: This period of intense session work was crucial for Page and Jones, allowing them to hone their craft, develop their unique styles, and build the foundational experience that would inform their later work with Led Zeppelin.
Donovan himself has acknowledged the contributions of these musicians, recognizing the enduring legacy that followed their work on his psychedelic folk-rock anthem.
