Hop on the wild ride of Led Zeppelin that swings between euphoric triumphs and gut-wrenching tragedies. In this episode we delve deep into the Led Zeppelin story with Bob Spitz, the author behind Led Zeppelin: The Biography, who shed light on the band's journey from their humble beginnings in 1968 to their premature demise in 1980. In this episode you will hear:
- How the founder of Zeppelin was a stellar studio musician seeking a new challenge
- How two famous members of the band were unknowns playing in bar bands
- How Led Zep tours reached levels of sexual debauchery not seen before nor since
- How Zeppelin transformed music styles and concert economics for all artists
- How a 300 pound former wrestler created their innovative marketing strategy
- That one of its members was studying to be an accountant
- How several tragic events changed the band forever
Led Zep was composed of stellar musicians
Led Zeppelin wasn't just a band; it was a powerhouse of talent. Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones weren't your average musicians—they were session legends, popping up on more records than you can shake a drumstick at. From The Who to commercial jingles, these guys did it all, bringing a wealth of musical experience to Led Zep recordings. In fact, Jimmy Page seemed destined for prodigy status when he appeared as a 13-year-old appearing on the BBC.
Innovation in music style
Jimmy Page had a vision: to rock the socks off mainstream music. And, did he deliver. Led Zeppelin wasn't just music; it was an experience. From Page's wailing guitar to Robert Plant's thundering vocals to John Bonham’s relentless attack on drums, every note was a punch to the gut, leaving fans reeling with excitement.
Record breaking concerts
America fell head over heels for Led Zeppelin, adopting them as their own. And Zep? Well, they repaid the favor by crisscrossing the States like rock 'n' roll nomads. In fact, years later the Kennedy Center would honor them for their career achievements with stirring tribute performances from the likes of the rock group Heart.
Savvy marketing and PR
Enter Peter Grant, the man you wouldn't dare cross, according to our guest Bob Spitz. He didn't just manage Led Zeppelin; he had a secret strategy to turn them into legends, and it worked.
Shocking levels of debauchery
If you thought rock 'n' roll excess was a myth, think again. Spitz told us stories of how Led Zeppelin took debauchery to new heights (or lows, depending on your perspective). Young girls, some barely out of middle school, flocked to their hotels like moths to a flame. Bob Spitz tells us about the shocking details.
Burnout, addictions and demons
Behind the scenes, darkness lurked. Founder Jimmy Page and drummer John Bonham battled addictions that threatened the integrity of the band.
Led Zeppelin's journey was a whirlwind of highs and lows, triumphs and tragedies. Their musical prowess, unmatched charisma, and savvy marketing propelled them to the pinnacle of rock 'n' roll success. From sold-out stadiums to groundbreaking albums, Led Zeppelin left an indelible mark on music history. Zep even teased everyone with a stellar performance in 2007 reunification in London featuring the three core members plus the son of their deceased drummer.
Air date: May 2024
Guest: Bob Spitz, author of Led Zeppelin: The Biography
Songs played: Good Times Bad Times, Babe I’m Gonna Leave You, Communication Breakdown, Dazed and Confused, Whole Lotta Love, Hearbreaker, Living Loving Maid, Ramble On, Immigrant Song, Bron-Y-Aur Stomp, Black Dog, Rock and Roll, Going to California, Over the Hills and Far Away, D’Yer Mak’er, Kashmir, Trampled Under Foot, All My Love.
Stream the Garage to Stadiums official Led Zeppelin playlist on Apple
Stream the Garage to Stadiums official Led Zeppelin playlist on Spotify
