Led Zeppelin Biography

Led Zeppelin is the legendary heavy metal band that pioneered the genre of hard rock. Combining unique, complex sounds and an otherworldly stage presence, they are known as one of the best rock bands in music history.

Early Formation

Former “The Yardbirds” member Jimmy Page had the initiative to start a superband in 1968. After some negotiation, Led Zeppelin was finally formed with Jimmy Page as the guitarist, Robert Plant as the vocalist, John Paul Jones as the bassist-keyboardist and John Bonham as the drummer. In late November, they were signed to “Atlantic Records” with a lucky deal, as the band had the liberty to decide how and when they would make, release and promote their music.

Beginning

During this era touring was regarded as the best way to promote and make music. They had already toured the UK and a part of the US before making any official releases. Their 1969 debut album, “Led Zeppelin”, was regarded as a turning point in the growth of heavy metal and hard rock because of its iconic guitar riffs, psychedelic blues, groove sound and its traces of English Folk. “Whole Lotta Love” was released as a single in the US from the”Led Zeppelin II” album and it cemented the band’s popularity. Against the band’s wishes “Immigrant Song” from “Led Zeppelin III” was released as a single in the US in 1970.

Success

Because of the constant scrutiny from the media and the band’s opposition to the commercialization of their music, they decided to release a nameless album in 1971. Ironically, “Led Zeppelin IV”, was one of the best-selling albums in the world with 37 million units sold, turning them into superstars. The iconic “Stairway to Heaven” was never released as a single, however, was made popular while touring the world from 1971 to 1973.The 1973 experimental “Houses of the Holy” was successful as much as on the charts as during touring, breaking records for the high attendance. After a one year break, the critically acclaimed double album “Physical Graffiti” was released in 1975 thus, the Zeppelins were now competing with prestigious bands like the “Rolling Stones” and “The Who”. Zeppelin’s sold-out tour was now employing sophisticated sound and lighting combined with each member’s fashion and mystical stage presence.

Setbacks and Return

As of 1975, they were considered the best rock band, however, that appeared to change after the 1976 album “Presence”. The record was not received well by either critics or fans. Prior to that, Plant had suffered a car accident, Page was allegedly using drugs and the band faced a tax exile which forced them to take a break from touring in 1976. In 1977 they broke the record of highest attendance for a single show in the US, with over 76,000 people present.

Bonham’s Death and Disbandment

“In Through the Out Door” was released in 1978, followed by a European tour. During the rehearsals of the US tour, the band’s drummer John Bonham was found dead in his room as a result of an alleged asphyxiation accident. In consequence, the tour was canceled and the members decided to disband in respect to their lost friend.

Following Break-up

All members decided to pursue solo careers, meeting and collaborating now and then. They played in 1985 at “Live Aid” and at John Bonham son Jason’s wedding. Page and Plant reunited on the “No Quarter” album in 1994. A full reunion occurred in 2007, London with Jason Bonham on drums. Led Zeppelin was the third act to accomplish four or more diamond-certified albums in music history.

Photo credit: Ledzeppelin