When it comes to iconic rock bands, Led Zeppelin is always mentioned as one of the greatest of all time. The band, which formed in 1968, consisted of four members: Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones, John Bonham, and Robert Plant. While all members contributed to the band’s success, it was Robert Plant’s incredible vocal range and unique style that set Led Zeppelin apart from other bands of the era. But did Robert Plant actually sing for Led Zeppelin? In this blog post, we will explore the answer to that question and delve into Plant’s contributions to the band’s success.
Robert Plant’s Early Career
Before joining Led Zeppelin, Robert Plant had already been working in the music industry for several years. He began his career as the lead vocalist of a band called Listen, which was later renamed as the Band of Joy. In the late 1960s, Plant was introduced to Jimmy Page, who at the time was working as a session musician. Page was impressed with Plant’s vocal abilities and asked him to join a new project he was working on, which would later become Led Zeppelin.
Plant’s Contributions to Led Zeppelin
It goes without saying that Robert Plant’s vocals were a crucial part of Led Zeppelin’s success. His unique singing style, which blended blues, folk, and heavy metal, helped the band to stand out from other rock bands of the era. But Plant’s contributions to the band went beyond just his vocals. He also wrote many of Led Zeppelin’s most iconic songs, including “Stairway to Heaven,” “Kashmir,” and “Whole Lotta Love.” His lyrics often dealt with themes of love, loss, and mythology, adding a layer of depth to the band’s music.
Plant’s Legacy
Led Zeppelin disbanded in 1980 following the death of drummer John Bonham, but Robert Plant’s influence on rock music continued long after the band’s demise. He embarked on a successful solo career, releasing several critically acclaimed albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s. He also collaborated with other musicians, including Jimmy Page, on a number of projects. In 1995, Led Zeppelin reunited for a one-off performance as part of a benefit concert, and Plant’s vocals were as powerful as ever.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is safe to say that Robert Plant did indeed sing for Led Zeppelin. His vocals, songwriting, and overall contributions to the band played a major role in their success and influence on rock music as a whole. Although Led Zeppelin is no longer together, Plant’s legacy lives on through his solo work and continued collaborations with other musicians.
FAQ
Who was almost the lead singer of Led Zeppelin?
The story of who was almost the lead singer of Led Zeppelin is one that music enthusiasts may find intriguing. During the early 1960s, Roger Daltrey was the lead singer of the English rock band, The Who. However, fate had other plans for Daltrey when he was ousted from the band in 1965 before returning some time later. It was during this time that a 17-year-old Robert Plant, soon to become one of the most recognisable voices of a generation as the lead singer of Led Zeppelin, became interested in taking over the spot currently held by Roger Daltrey.
Despite Plant’s undeniable talent, Jimmy Page, who was instrumental in the formation of Led Zeppelin, ultimately chose not to go with the future rock icon as his band’s lead singer. Instead, Page decided to hold auditions and eventually selected another talented singer, Terry Reid, as his first choice. However, after Reid declined Page’s offer, citing contractual obligations and a lack of interest in what he perceived as a band that was still in flux, Plant was the next artist to be offered the role of lead singer, and he eagerly took the opportunity.
Despite missing out on the opportunity to front one of the most successful rock bands in history, Terry Reid’s decision paved the way for the birth of Led Zeppelin as we know it, the band that went on to earn countless platinum records, loyal fans and changed the face of rock and roll music. Nonetheless, the story of who was almost the lead singer of Led Zeppelin proves that success isn’t always about being the first pick, but rather the one who is right for the role, even if they arrive on the scene a little later than expected.
Did John Lennon like Led Zeppelin?
John Lennon was known for his eclectic taste in music, ranging from rock and roll to folk to avant-garde. While he never publicly stated his opinion on Led Zeppelin, there are some clues that suggest he was a fan of the band. In an interview with Rolling Stone in 1970, Lennon praised the sound of Led Zeppelin, saying “the new stuff is good. That guitar sound in ‘Whole Lotta Love’ is great. It’s just as good as anyone’s riff, it’s just a matter of timing and holding back.” This comment suggests that he was at least aware of Led Zeppelin’s music and appreciated some aspects of it.
Furthermore, it’s worth noting that Led Zeppelin drew inspiration from The Beatles and other British Invasion bands. They even released several albums in quick succession early in their career, much like The Beatles did with their early albums. It’s possible that Lennon saw some of himself in Led Zeppelin’s approach to music.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that Lennon was also known for his outspoken and sometimes controversial opinions. He may have had negative feelings about Led Zeppelin that he never expressed publicly. But based on the evidence we have, it seems likely that he was at least a casual fan of the band and appreciated their sound.
Who else sang Stairway to Heaven besides Led Zeppelin?
Stairway to Heaven is a classic song by the British rock band Led Zeppelin. However, over the years since its release in 1971, several musicians and bands have covered this iconic track. One of the most notable covers of Stairway to Heaven was performed by the American heavy metal band Mastodon.
Mastodon released their version of Stairway to Heaven in 2018 as a tribute to their fellow musician and friend, Brent Hinds, who is a lifelong fan of Led Zeppelin. Their cover rendition doesn’t stray too far from the original, yet they bring their metal style and blend in their own unique sound. Their version, though faithful to the original, boasts a slightly heavier guitar sound, along with an overall harder, metal tone.
Other notable covers of Stairway to Heaven have been made over the years; some famous musicians and bands that have recorded their own versions of this classic rock hit include Heart, Rodrigo y Gabriela, Frank Zappa, Janet Jackson, and Dolly Parton, among others.
While many bands have put their own spin on Stairway to Heaven, the original recording by Led Zeppelin remains iconic and unforgettable. The song’s timeless appeal and powerful musical arrangements have secured its position as one of the most recognizable songs in rock history.
