The Time When Jimmy Page and Eric Clapton Were in the Yardbirds: A Brief Co-Existence

The Yardbirds, a British rock band famous for their influential guitarists, were home to two legendary guitarists at different times in their history: Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page. While Clapton was a member from 1963 to 1965, Page joined much later, in late 1966.

Finding Their Places in the Yardbirds

Despite popular belief, Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page never shared the same stage in the famed band. Clapton was a original member of the Yardbirds, playing until March 1965. He then left the band and went on to form Cream.

Jim Page, on the other hand, initially joined as a session musician and was only later asked to become a full-time member in 1966. His arrival actually marked a brief co-existence with the band's classic lineup.

Jeff Beck's Temporary Stint

Jeff Beck, a renowned guitarist in his own right, did co-exist with Jimmy Page in the Yardbirds for a brief period. However, their tenure was short-lived. The band briefly included Jeff Beck on bass, but his arrangement was only temporary. Due to Page's dissatisfaction with Beck's role on bass and his desire to assert himself as a lead guitarist, the band quickly disbanded after Beck's departure.

This coexistence, although brief, was a pivotal moment in rock history. Page took over on the lead guitar, and the band continued on with a new lineup, eventually forming what would become the seminal rock band, Led Zeppelin.

Rock History and Personal Insights

The brief coexistence between Jimmy Page and Eric Clapton in the Yardbirds remains a topic of interest among music enthusiasts. For instance, comedian and music fan Graham Parker once reveals, "I was fortunate enough to see one of those shows at the Catalina Casino on Catalina Island in Southern California. My friends and I wanted to see The Yardbirds instead of The Beatles at Dodger Stadium. We still think the choice we made was the right one."

The rest of the story is rock and roll history. After Beck left, Page took over as the lead guitarist, and the band re-formed with new members, eventually becoming the legendary Led Zeppelin.

Jimmy Page's role in the Yardbirds set the stage for his future work in Led Zeppelin and his legendary status in the music industry. This brief period in the band's history is a reminder of the dynamic and evolving nature of rock music in the 1960s.