The history of Led Zeppelin’s is a fascinating journey through accidental plagiarism, defining band dynamics, and a 20-year wait for songwriter credit. The Labyrinthine Authorship
Folk legend Joan Baez heard the song from a student at Oberlin College and included it on her 1962 live album, Joan Baez in Concert .
1 Led Zeppelin tune was dubbed "Baby" by Jimmy Page. - Facebook
Because Baez’s album lacked a writing credit, it was mistakenly labeled as a "traditional" song. Jimmy Page , hearing this version, assumed it was public domain and credited it as "Traditional, arr. by Jimmy Page" on Led Zeppelin's 1969 debut.
In the 1980s, Bredon was made aware of the rock version. By 1990, the band officially changed the credits to include Bredon , and she received a substantial back-payment of royalties. The Song that Built the Band
For nearly two decades, many believed this track was a traditional folk song with unknown origins.
More than just a cover, the track was essential in defining the "Led Zeppelin sound" during their earliest days.