This singer/guitarist was considered

[VGNonly]

by Jimmy Page to join the fledgling Led Zeppelin before Robert Plant. He was also considered to join The Rolling Stones after Mick Taylor left. Who was he?

[highplainsdem]

1. ...

https://www.democraticunderground.com/1034149561

[VGNonly]

4. I was unaware that Reid had recently died,

sorry to hear. The star I had in mind was Steve Marriott. Page had some words with thug promoter Don Arden, words to the effect, " you can't play guitar with busted fingers". Page backed away. Reid was busy with tours with The Stones and Cream. Reid suggested Plant to Page.

Marriott was in the running for Mick Taylors position. Keith Richards particularly liked him. He auditioned with the Stones, but Jagger quashed it. Marriotts vocal prowess and energetic stage presence overwhelmed Mick.

[Lochloosa]

2. Terry Reid

[ProfessorGAC]

3. Beat Me To It

A legendary almost.
He had a modicum of success but nothing close to his "almosts".