On this day in 2016, rock legend Jimmy Page faced a courtroom—not with his iconic guitar, but with a \$79 million lawsuit threatening one of rock’s most sacred legacies. The legendary opening riff of Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” was under fire, accused of being stolen. Michael Skidmore, representing the estate of Randy Wolfe—Spirit’s gifted guitarist—claimed that Page and Robert Plant had lifted the riff from Spirit’s 1968 instrumental, “Taurus.”
The courtroom buzzed with tension as decades of rock history hung in the balance. Skidmore argued that the similarities between the two riffs were undeniable, accusing Led Zeppelin of plagiarism. Yet, Jimmy Page remained composed. When called to testify, Page swore under oath that he had never heard “Taurus” until the allegations surfaced online years later.
In a dramatic and defining moment, Page picked up a guitar right there in the courtroom. With steady fingers, he played the opening riff of “Stairway to Heaven,” weaving the notes with precision and passion. The demonstration was more than a performance; it was a testament to originality and artistry.
Throughout the trial, experts debated music theory, chord progressions, and creative influence. But Page’s testimony and live performance struck a chord with the judge and jury alike. They saw the difference between inspiration and imitation, and ultimately, Led Zeppelin’s iconic status remained untarnished.
The case became a landmark in music copyright law, underscoring the fine line between influence and infringement. For fans around the world, the verdict was a relief: the timeless magic of “Stairway to Heaven” remained pure, a soaring anthem of rock’s golden era, protected by truth, talent, and the undeniable spirit of creativity.
