Rocking the Heights of Led Zeppelin: Shining Stars Take Center Stage
In the heart of the 1960s, four musicians—Jimmy Page (guitar), Robert Plant (vocals), John Paul Jones (bass/keyboard), and John Bonham (drums)—came together to form Led Zeppelin, a band that would revolutionise the music industry.
Their early music was a fusion of genres, influenced by post-war British musical influences, notably R&B and blues, as well as American blues and early rock 'n' roll. The band's distinctive hard rock and blues rock sound was born from these diverse influences.
Jimmy Page, having worked with the Rolling Stones, Petula Clark, and David Bowie in his initial stint with another band, brought a wealth of experience to the table. Meanwhile, Robert Plant, John Bonham, and John Paul Jones had all honed their skills in local blues bands before joining forces.
The biographical film "Becoming Led Zeppelin" delves into the band's formative years, tracing their journey from childhood and early teens to the first 18 months of the band's existence. The documentary is a treasure trove for fans of Led Zeppelin, offering a glimpse into the band's early days, their first practice song together (The Train Kept A-Rollin'), and their electrifying American debut, which toppled the Beatles.
The soundtrack of the film features a mix of Led Zeppelin originals and covers of songs by other artists, including Sonny Boy Wiliamson's 'Darlin Do Me a Favour' and Lonnie Donegan's 'Jack O Diamonds'.
In addition to the musical journey, the film also provides a backdrop of the chaotic world events during the band's rise to fame. Snapshots of world events such as Mexico's student massacre, the escalation of troops in Vietnam, and the moon landing, are featured in the documentary.
While the film does not delve deep into the band's creative conflicts or controversies, it offers a unique insight into the personalities of each member, as described by John Bonham himself. The documentary ends on a high note with Led Zeppelin's triumphant performance at the Royal Albert Hall.
For those curious about the music that electrified the 1970s, "Becoming Led Zeppelin" is a must-watch. The film's rich archives, including rare photos and unseen recordings from the band members' childhood and early teens, offer a unique and intimate look into the lives of the band members and the music that made them legends.
[1] Wikipedia, Led Zeppelin [2] Rolling Stone, The 50 Greatest Hard Rock Songs of All Time [3] Ultimate Classic Rock, The 100 Greatest Classic Rock Artists of All Time
- The documentary "Becoming Led Zeppelin" provides an insight into the band's music career, featuring a mix of their original songs and covers of artists like Sonny Boy Williamson and Lonnie Donegan.
- John Bonham, a member of Led Zeppelin, shares personal insights into the band's formative years, offering a glimpse into the band's creative process and the chaotic world events that served as a backdrop during their rise to fame.
- For enthusiasts of entertainment and music from the 1960s and 1970s, "Becoming Led Zeppelin" serves as an essential addition to their understanding of the band's early days, providing a rare and intimate look into the lives of the band members and the music that cemented their place as legendary artists.
