21A: Led Zeppelin
The band Led Zeppelin was formed in London in 1968. (Question 1 – What country is London in?) They are considered one of the most iconic rock bands in history.
Their name implies a combination of heavy and light. (Question 2 – Based on the band’s name, can you explain this?) A photograph of the burning LZ Hindenburg was used on the group’s first album and much of their merchandise.
Led Zeppelin was heavily influenced by American blues artists like Howlin’ Wolf. But their heavy sound was an early influence on heavy metal.
Two of the members – guitarist Jimmy Page and drummer John Bonham – are widely considered among the best ever at their instrument. Their styles, and Robert Plant’s voice, are signatures of their sound.
They opened most of their shows with the song “Rock & Roll.” Here’s the start of a concert at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Listen to Robert Plant’s wail.
Each member of the band had his own symbol. They’ve never divulged the meaning, so it remains a mystery to this day. What do you think these symbols could mean? (Below, left to right, the symbols are for John Paul Jones, John Bonham, Jimmy Page, and Robert Plant.)
Jimmy Page was the principal writer of the music, and Robert Plant wrote the lyrics. In the early 1970s, they were considered the biggest band in the world. Here’s “Black Dog.”
In 2012, the band received a Kennedy Center Honor and was celebrated at a fancy awards center by President Obama and others. Here’s a short biography of the band that tells their story from the beginning to now. (From 1:55-6:20)
Around this same time, the band re-formed – with John Bonham’s son on drums – for a concert film. They literally received millions of requests for tickets. Here’s a trailer to that film, which was called “Celebration Day.”
Their song “Stairway to Heaven” is one of the most famous songs in rock history. At the Kennedy Center honors, the band Heart performed the song – with the members of Led Zeppelin in attendance. (John Bonham often wore a derby. Look for the significance of that in this performance.) This interpretation shows that a great song can be performed in a number of styles. The song builds slowly, but it’s worth it – especially to see the reaction of Jimmy Page and Robert Plant.
Answers:
1 — London is in England
2 — “Led” is a play off the word “lead,” which is heavy; “Zeppelin” is a type of balloon, which is light.
Bonus videos!
The documentary “It Might Get Loud” came out in 2009. It features three legendary guitarists from three generations – Jack White of the White Stripes, the Edge of U2 and Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin. Here’s the trailer.
One more: In 2018, the band published a book celebrating the 50th anniversary of the band. Here’s a short interview from CBS Sunday Morning.