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 .
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. Led Zeppelin - Babe I'm Gonna Leave You (Official Audio)
More than just a cover, the track was essential in defining the "Led Zeppelin sound" during their earliest days. Folk legend Joan Baez heard the song from
1 Led Zeppelin tune was dubbed "Baby" by Jimmy Page. - Facebook by Jimmy Page" on Led Zeppelin's 1969 debut
It was written in the late 1950s by Anne Bredon , an American folk artist and Berkeley student.
For nearly two decades, many believed this track was a traditional folk song with unknown origins.