Jimmy Page: The Definitive Biography

Jimmy Page, the legendary guitarist of Led Zeppelin, has been the subject of a comprehensive biography by Chris Salewicz. The book delves into Page's life, including his trials and tribulations, heroin use, and overcoming death threats. It also explores his eccentricities and connections to London gangsters and power struggles. The book is based on interviews with Page and those close to him and is expected to be as close to a Jimmy Page autobiography as fans can get.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 528 pages
Publication date: 20 February 2020
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Introduction:
Jimmy Page, the legendary guitarist of Led Zeppelin, has remained an enigmatic figure throughout his career. In this definitive and comprehensive biography, Chris Salewicz delves into the life and times of the man behind the music. With over 300 million copies sold worldwide, Led Zeppelin was the biggest band of the 1970s and has continued to be adored by fans worldwide. This biography aims to unravel the mystery surrounding Page and provide a deeper understanding of the man behind the guitar.
Early Life and Influences:
Born in 1944 in the Surrey suburbs, Page was a middle-class boy with a passion for music. He grew up listening to blues and rock artists such as Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, and Eric Clapton. These early influences shaped his musical style and helped him develop his unique playing technique.
Led Zeppelin:
In 1968, Page formed Led Zeppelin with drummer John Bonham, bassist John Paul Jones, and keyboardist Jimmy Page. The band quickly gained popularity and released their debut album, "Led Zeppelin," in 1969. The album was a massive success, selling over 30 million copies worldwide. Led Zeppelin's music was characterized by its heavy guitar riffs, powerful vocals, and blues-inspired sound.
Personal Life:
Page's personal life was marked by numerous trials and tribulations. He struggled with addiction to heroin, which he used to enhance his creative focus while making albums. He also faced numerous death threats during this time, which added to the tension and stress of his career. Despite these challenges, Page remained committed to his music and continued to push the boundaries of rock music.
Warrior Magician:
Salewicz describes Page as a warrior magician, someone who was prepared to die for his art. He justified his heroin use by claiming that it helped him harness its narcotic focus and enhance his creative abilities. Page's eccentricities and skeletons were often contextualized against a background of London gangsters, deaths, and power struggles, which he continued to rail against even within his own band.
Conclusion:
"The Life and Times of Jimmy Page: A Warrior Magician" is a captivating and insightful biography that provides a closer look at the life and career of one of rock's most iconic figures. Through extensive interviews with Page and those closest to him, Salewicz unravels the man behind the mystery and reveals the many trials and tribulations that shaped his life and music. This book is not only entertaining but also provides valuable insights into the creative process and the struggles of a musician who was willing to sacrifice everything for his art. Whether you are a fan of Led Zeppelin or simply interested in the life of a musical legend, this biography is a must-read.

Weight: 386g
Dimension: 212 x 127 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008152796