The Black Crowes and Jimmy Page revisit a significant 26-year-old live performance

In 2000, a strange live album, featuring The Black Crowes and legendary Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page, was released. Strangely, the album did not contain any Black Crowes songs, leaving fans disappointed as they expected to hear hits like “Hard to Handle” and “She Talks to Angels”. However, after 26 years, this error has finally been rectified with the release of the updated album “Jimmy Page & The Black Crowes: Live at the Greek”, now featuring 16 previously unreleased tracks that were originally omitted.

The live recordings that form the basis of this album were captured during performances at The Greek Theatre in Los Angeles over two nights in October 1999. This unique collaboration between The Black Crowes and Jimmy Page showcased a powerful connection and energy that the musicians shared. Singer Chris Robinson described the experience as “special” and “alive”, highlighting the synergy that the musicians felt performing together.

Despite the unity felt on stage, the original live album release was missing something crucial – Black Crowes songs. Contractual obligations prevented the usage of Black Crowes’ music on the album, leading to only Zeppelin tunes, blues, R&B standards, and covers being included. Rich Robinson expressed disappointment at this missed opportunity, acknowledging that the decision to exclude their own songs was ill-informed.

Jimmy Page, the iconic guitarist, expressed regret at not being able to include Black Crowes songs on the original album. He felt a sense of incompleteness due to the contractual limitations imposed, preventing the full expression of the bond formed during the performances. However, the updated anniversary edition now features Black Crowes tracks, offering fans the chance to hear the band’s signature songs performed alongside Zeppelin classics like “Misty Mountain Hop” and “Bring It on Home”.

In addition to the live performances, the album includes soundcheck outtakes and a previously unreleased track titled “Jams”, highlighting the playful and creative energy that defined the collaboration. The partnership formed during these performances was enduring, leading to a full American tour in 2000 and a lasting friendship between Page and The Black Crowes.

The re-release of this album coincides with a creative resurgence for The Black Crowes, who received their second Grammy nomination for “Happiness Bastards” in the previous year. Chris Robinson reflects on the delayed release of the songs, emphasizing his belief that things happen when they are meant to. Despite the long wait, he is grateful that the music can now be heard and appreciated by fans.

The updated album “Live at the Greek” not only restores previously omitted tracks but also captures the essence of a unique musical partnership that transcended boundaries and genres. The collaboration between The Black Crowes and Jimmy Page continues to be celebrated and remembered, showcasing the timeless appeal of rock music and the enduring power of creative collaborations between artists.