On November 3, 2023, Jimmy Page made a triumphant return to the stage after nearly a decade, delivering a performance that electrified the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Brooklyn, New York. At 79, the legendary Led Zeppelin guitarist honored his hero, Link Wray, by playing Wray’s groundbreaking instrumental “Rumble” on his iconic Gibson EDS-1275 doubleneck guitar. This marked Page’s first live performance since 2015, and it was a moment that resonated deeply with fans and musicians alike. ([guitarworld.com][1], [jambase.com][2])
Before taking the stage, Page appeared in a pre-recorded video, reflecting on Wray’s profound influence on his musical journey. He recalled hearing “Rumble” at 14, describing it as “the essence of cool,” noting its vigor, strength, and fearless execution. Page emphasized that Wray’s music was “the sort of stuff that can’t be taught” and expressed his honor in inducting his “hero” into the Hall of Fame. ([wrif.com][3], [blabbermouth.net][4], [guitar.com][5])
### The Performance
As the video concluded, the stage lights illuminated Page, who stood poised with his double-neck guitar. Joined by drummer Anton Fig and bassist Tim Givens, he launched into “Rumble,” delivering a rendition that was both haunting and bold. The performance was a masterclass in tone and emotion, with Page’s playing exuding the quiet fire and swagger that have defined his career. The crowd erupted in applause, witnessing a moment that seamlessly blended rock history with living legend. ([americansongwriter.com][6], [rockcellarmagazine.com][7])
### The Legacy of “Rumble”
Released in 1958, “Rumble” by Link Wray was a pioneering instrumental that introduced aggressive distortion and tremolo effects to rock music. Its raw sound and rebellious spirit made it a precursor to genres like punk and heavy metal. The song’s influence is immeasurable, having inspired countless artists, including Jimmy Page, who has often cited it as a pivotal moment in his musical development. ([en.wikipedia.org][8], [en.wikipedia.org][9])
### A Moment Burned into Rock History
Jimmy Page’s performance at the 2023 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony was more than just a musical event—it was a testament to the enduring power of rock and roll. At 79, Page proved that his connection to the music remains as potent as ever, delivering a performance that was both a tribute and a reaffirmation of his place in rock history. As fans and fellow musicians looked on, it was clear that Zeppelin lives on, and Jimmy Page continues to reign as the king of guitar.([guitarworld.com][1])
For those who missed the live event, the full ceremony, including Page’s performance, is available for streaming on Disney+.
[1]: https://www.guitarworld.com/news/jimmy-page-rumble-rock-and-roll-hall-fame-2023?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Jimmy Page plays Link Wray’s Rumble at Rock & Roll Hall of Fame | Guitar World”
[2]: https://www.jambase.com/article/jimmy-page-link-wray-rumble-rock-roll-hall-fame?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Watch Jimmy Page Play Link Wray’s ‘Rumble’ At Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Ceremony”
[3]: https://wrif.com/2023/11/04/jimmy-page-performs-rumble-at-2023-rock-hall-ceremony/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Jimmy Page Performs ‘Rumble’ at 2023 Rock Hall Ceremony”
[4]: https://blabbermouth.net/news/watch-led-zeppelins-jimmy-page-performs-for-first-time-in-nearly-a-decade?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Watch: LED ZEPPELIN’s JIMMY PAGE Performs For First Time In Nearly A Decade – BLABBERMOUTH.NET”
[5]: https://guitar.com/news/music-news/jimmy-page-surprise-performance-rock-hall/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Jimmy Page surprises with first performance in eight years at Rock Hall induction ceremony”
[6]: https://americansongwriter.com/watch-jimmy-page-pays-tribute-link-wray-surprise-performance-rumble-rock-roll-hall-fame-induction-ceremony/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Watch: Jimmy Page Pays Tribute to Link Wray with Surprise Performance of \”Rumble\” at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony”
[7]: https://rockcellarmagazine.com/rock-hall-induction-2023-highlights-jimmy-page-link-wray-elton-john-willie-nelson/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Jimmy Page Surprise Link Wray Tribute Performance Highlights Rock Hall Induction Ceremony 2023 (Key Moments/Rewatch Info)”
[8]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rumble_%28instrumental%29?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Rumble (instrumental)”
[9]: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Link_Wray?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Link Wray”