On this day in 2016, rock legend Jimmy Page faced an extraordinary courtroom drama—though instead of his iconic guitar, he confronted a \$79 million lawsuit challenging the origins of one of rock’s most famous riffs. The dispute centered on the opening notes of Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven,” arguably one of the most recognizable guitar intros in history. Michael Skidmore, representing the estate of Randy Wolfe, the late guitarist for the band Spirit, alleged that Page and Robert Plant had stolen the riff from Spirit’s 1968 instrumental “Taurus.”
The lawsuit quickly captured the attention of fans, music historians, and legal experts alike, as it posed a fundamental question: Could one of rock’s greatest masterpieces have been lifted from a lesser-known song? The courtroom was packed, with tension thick as the case unfolded.
When Jimmy Page took the stand, he remained composed and confident. He swore he had never heard “Taurus” before the internet and media frenzy ignited the accusations years after “Stairway to Heaven” was released. To settle doubts, Page was asked to demonstrate the disputed riff live in court. Picking up his guitar, he played the legendary notes flawlessly, showcasing the originality and distinctiveness of his composition.
Page’s testimony, combined with expert analysis and comparisons of the two pieces, convinced the jury. Led Zeppelin’s legacy was upheld, and the band walked out with their iconic status intact. The ruling underscored the complexities of musical creativity, inspiration, and ownership—reminding the world how some riffs become timeless legends, etched into the fabric of rock history.
