Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Gonna Make You Sweat Gonna Make You Groove

What were you doing 365 days ago - to the minute. It's not often you can answer that question with any accuracy, but today is one of those days. It was exactly one-year ago today, at exactly 9:00 PM (4:00 PM shitty snowy Toronto time), that Led Zeppelin walked on the stage at London's 02 arena.

Led Zeppelin's legendary stage shows and relatively short career run meant that for many people, this was the concert they waited a lifetime for. I was one of those people. Their last American date was on my 14th birthday, their last Toronto date six years earlier. Seeing Led Zeppelin had always been a pipe dream.

I came close once. I arrived in London on Aug 4, 1979, the day of the legendary 1st Knebworth concert for a family vacation when I was 16. My aunt had arranged a ticket with a neighbour who was my age, but a delay in our flight meant I was too late. It would be my last chance to see Led Zeppelin for 28 years.

I wouldn't see London again for 28 years either, and it seems a fitting close that I should return to the city where it almost happened, and in the same year the Sex Pistols would reunite, to finally make it happen.

London was abuzz with the Sex Pistols in 1979, with Led Zeppelin in 2007. Taxi's adorned ads for the new CD compilation, Mothership. In stores, people were talking about the concert, asking us about it. The news covered the ticket line up the day before the show. It was an occasion as much as a concert.

It was a concert first, however. That was what it was all about, the show, the music. And on that front, more than any others, there would be no disappointment. The show! We sat patiently through an array of artists playing one, maybe two songs: Chris Squire and Alan White from Yes, Keith Emerson from ELP and Simon Kirke from Bad Company playing ELP's Fanfare for the Common Man opened the show. Magic, that was. Paul Rodgers was worthy of mention too. Strangely, they stopped the show for a twenty minute setup before Foreigner came on and Foreigner played one song, I Wanna Know What Love Is. "They tore down one drum kit, set up a second," I have joked to more than one person, "and the drummer pulls out his brushes!" One lousy ballad from the band that gave us Feels Like the First Time and Double Vision. You'd be disappointed if you weren't waiting for them to get off stage so Led Zeppelin could get on.

Zeppelin promised a 9:00 start (4:00 SSTT), and they came on exactly at 9:00 (4:00 SSTT). After a short video about the 1975 Tampa show, they hit with Good Times Bad Times, lights flashing to the intro, Jason Bonham paradiddling to his old man's beat, Led Zeppelin were back.




The first chills up the spine, the I can't believe it moment, came surprisingly during the next song, Ramble On. Never a favourite, at this moment, this exact point in time, it was perfect. The concert is, like many concerts, a blur of moments: more chills during In My Time of Dying, watching Jimmy Page strutting, yes strutting at 63 years old, playing that old slide blues guitar; Watching Jimmy strap on the double neck and knowing what was next - Stairway to Heaven; The legendary surrealness of No Quarter, blue lights coming through the stage fog; The never before played For Your Life from my favourite Zeppelin album, the vastly underrated Presence; Kashmir, lush, expansive mesmerizing. It was the true gem, true musical highlight of any show
I have seen; The young couple screwing (yes, you read that right) to Since I've Been Loving You in the seat in front of me redefining the slow minor key blues masterpiece; Whole Lotta Love, especially the moment when it seemed they were going to go old school, go into Elvis' Boogie Mama, and beyond like in their prime; Rock and Roll, ending with deceased John's most famous piece, his son Jason supplicating himself in a "I'm not worthy" manner before the boys at the end of it all.

From start to finish, magical. Jason Bonham indeed was worthy, whether the rest of us were so is an open question.

The trip to London was marred by a bad cold that kept me from being my best. The beer I couldn't quite digest, and in fact had to go to the flat warm stuff to survive. The food gave me trouble, and I stayed in a couple of nights, much to my travel partners disappointment, to try and keep myself going. But on this night I couldn't rest. Back at the hotel the bar was full of fellow travellers, revelling in post-Zeppelin ardour. The bar closed down, so we kept the night porter busy chasing beer for us to drink in the lounge. Sleep would be difficult coming, the night too perfect to let end.

People have asked since, was it worth it? What if they tour, was it still worth it? Yes and yes, is the answer. Every minute, every penny. And since the likelihood that Led Zeppelin will ever tour now seem as remote as ever, it was worth it more so now than then.

Worth every minute, worth every penny.


Crossposted to At Home in Hespeler

original review here.

Gonna Make You Sweat Gonna Make You Groove

What were you doing 365 days ago - to the minute. It's not often you can answer that question with any accuracy, but today is one of those days. It was exactly one-year ago today, at exactly 9:00 PM (4:00 PM shitty snowy Toronto time), that Led Zeppelin walked on the stage at London's 02 arena.

Led Zeppelin's legendary stage shows and relatively short career run meant that for many people, this was the concert they waited a lifetime for. I was one of those people. Their last American date was on my 14th birthday, their last Toronto date six years earlier. Seeing Led Zeppelin had always been a pipe dream.

I came close once. I arrived in London on Aug 4, 1979, the day of the legendary 1st Knebworth concert for a family vacation when I was 16. My aunt had arranged a ticket with a neighbour who was my age, but a delay in our flight meant I was too late. It would be my last chance to see Led Zeppelin for 28 years.

I wouldn't see London again for 28 years either, and it seems a fitting close that I should return to the city where it almost happened, and in the same year the Sex Pistols would reunite, to finally make it happen.

London was abuzz with the Sex Pistols in 1979, with Led Zeppelin in 2007. Taxi's adorned ads for the new CD compilation, Mothership. In stores, people were talking about the concert, asking us about it. The news covered the ticket line up the day before the show. It was an occasion as much as a concert.

It was a concert first, however. That was what it was all about, the show, the music. And on that front, more than any others, there would be no disappointment. The show! We sat patiently through an array of artists playing one, maybe two songs: Chris Squire and Alan White from Yes, Keith Emerson from ELP and Simon Kirke from Bad Company playing ELP's Fanfare for the Common Man opened the show. Magic, that was. Paul Rodgers was worthy of mention too. Strangely, they stopped the show for a twenty minute setup before Foreigner came on and Foreigner played one song, I Wanna Know What Love Is. "They tore down one drum kit, set up a second," I have joked to more than one person, "and the drummer pulls out his brushes!" One lousy ballad from the band that gave us Feels Like the First Time and Double Vision. You'd be disappointed if you weren't waiting for them to get off stage so Led Zeppelin could get on.

Zeppelin promised a 9:00 start (4:00 SSTT), and they came on exactly at 9:00 (4:00 SSTT). After a short video about the 1975 Tampa show, they hit with Good Times Bad Times, lights flashing to the intro, Jason Bonham paradiddling to his old man's beat, Led Zeppelin were back.




The first chills up the spine, the I can't believe it moment, came surprisingly during the next song, Ramble On. Never a favourite, at this moment, this exact point in time, it was perfect. The concert is, like many concerts, a blur of moments: more chills during In My Time of Dying, watching Jimmy Page strutting, yes strutting at 63 years old, playing that old slide blues guitar; Watching Jimmy strap on the double neck and knowing what was next - Stairway to Heaven; The legendary surrealness of No Quarter, blue lights coming through the stage fog; The never before played For Your Life from my favourite Zeppelin album, the vastly underrated Presence; Kashmir, lush, expansive mesmerizing. It was the true gem, true musical highlight of any show
I have seen; The young couple screwing (yes, you read that right) to Since I've Been Loving You in the seat in front of me redefining the slow minor key blues masterpiece; Whole Lotta Love, especially the moment when it seemed they were going to go old school, go into Elvis' Boogie Mama, and beyond like in their prime; Rock and Roll, ending with deceased John's most famous piece, his son Jason supplicating himself in a "I'm not worthy" manner before the boys at the end of it all.

From start to finish, magical. Jason Bonham indeed was worthy, whether the rest of us were so is an open question.

The trip to London was marred by a bad cold that kept me from being my best. The beer I couldn't quite digest, and in fact had to go to the flat warm stuff to survive. The food gave me trouble, and I stayed in a couple of nights, much to my travel partners disappointment, to try and keep myself going. But on this night I couldn't rest. Back at the hotel the bar was full of fellow travellers, revelling in post-Zeppelin ardour. The bar closed down, so we kept the night porter busy chasing beer for us to drink in the lounge. Sleep would be difficult coming, the night too perfect to let end.

People have asked since, was it worth it? What if they tour, was it still worth it? Yes and yes, is the answer. Every minute, every penny. And since the likelihood that Led Zeppelin will ever tour now seem as remote as ever, it was worth it more so now than then.

Worth every minute, worth every penny.


Crossposted to At Home in Hespeler

original review here.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

It's Not Led Zeppelin

We have chronicled the will they or won't they of Led Zeppelin members decision to tour and or record together in the near future. In September Robert Plant said no, he would not tour or record with the other members. Last month, John Paul Jones announced that the remaining members of Led Zeppelin, himself, Jimmy Page and Jason Bonham were, in fact, recording together:

there would be a record and tour, yea. But we have to got to have everybody on board.
The search was officially on for a singer, with Alter Bridge's Myles Kennedy rumoured to have the inside track. Of note, Lemon Squeezings reported earlier this week that Page, Jones and Bonham watched last weekends Alter Bridge concert in London from side stage.

Thus fans raised the question: they wouldn't tour as Led Zeppelin without Robert Plant would they? The answer, it appears, is no. According to Rolling Stone a representative for Jimmy Page has told them that "Whatever this is, it is not Led Zeppelin."

But Page wants to make one thing clear about the new project. "Whatever this is, it is not Led Zeppelin," says a rep for Page's management company, QPrime. "Not without the involvement of Robert Plant."

We are now officially taking ideas for a new name. Ramble On's choice, if Myles Kennedy ends up getting the gig is:

Alter Zeppelin

But then, I like bad puns.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

It's Not Led Zeppelin

We have chronicled the will they or won't they of Led Zeppelin members decision to tour and or record together in the near future. In September Robert Plant said no, he would not tour or record with the other members. Last month, John Paul Jones announced that the remaining members of Led Zeppelin, himself, Jimmy Page and Jason Bonham were, in fact, recording together:

there would be a record and tour, yea. But we have to got to have everybody on board.
The search was officially on for a singer, with Alter Bridge's Myles Kennedy rumoured to have the inside track. Of note, Lemon Squeezings reported earlier this week that Page, Jones and Bonham watched last weekends Alter Bridge concert in London from side stage.

Thus fans raised the question: they wouldn't tour as Led Zeppelin without Robert Plant would they? The answer, it appears, is no. According to Rolling Stone a representative for Jimmy Page has told them that "Whatever this is, it is not Led Zeppelin."

But Page wants to make one thing clear about the new project. "Whatever this is, it is not Led Zeppelin," says a rep for Page's management company, QPrime. "Not without the involvement of Robert Plant."

We are now officially taking ideas for a new name. Ramble On's choice, if Myles Kennedy ends up getting the gig is:

Alter Zeppelin

But then, I like bad puns.

Friday, November 7, 2008

Foo Fighters DVD release

American Foo Fighter and Led Zeppelin fans have been waiting for the DVD release of June's Wembley Stadium show, complete with Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones playing Ramble On and Rock and Roll with the Foo's. The DVD was released in August in Europe and Australia.

According to Led Zeppelin News, the American release is set for Nov 18, just in time for Christmas. This also includes the Canadian release.

h/t Steve "the Lemon"

Foo Fighters DVD release

American Foo Fighter and Led Zeppelin fans have been waiting for the DVD release of June's Wembley Stadium show, complete with Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones playing Ramble On and Rock and Roll with the Foo's. The DVD was released in August in Europe and Australia.

According to Led Zeppelin News, the American release is set for Nov 18, just in time for Christmas. This also includes the Canadian release.

h/t Steve "the Lemon"

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Jimmy Page Won't Tour Without Robert Plant?

According to the mailer sent out by gossip site Popbitch, Jimmy Page has told a fan that without Robert Plant he will not tour:

Led Zepellin's [Sic] John Paul Jones has been fuelling feverish speculation that Led Zepellin [Sic] are about to reform with a new singer, possibly Steven Tyler. Yet Jimmy Page hasn't quite been singing from the same songsheet.

He got talking to a fan last week and said that he'd never tour without Robert Plant.

Popbitch is a gossip site with no link to their e-mailed tidbits (thus none provided here). I have no reliable gauge on their general accuracy, although it's always fun to read. However, I wouldn't place too much faith in the accuracy of this report without further evidence.

Jimmy Page Won't Tour Without Robert Plant?

According to the mailer sent out by gossip site Popbitch, Jimmy Page has told a fan that without Robert Plant he will not tour:

Led Zepellin's [Sic] John Paul Jones has been fuelling feverish speculation that Led Zepellin [Sic] are about to reform with a new singer, possibly Steven Tyler. Yet Jimmy Page hasn't quite been singing from the same songsheet.

He got talking to a fan last week and said that he'd never tour without Robert Plant.

Popbitch is a gossip site with no link to their e-mailed tidbits (thus none provided here). I have no reliable gauge on their general accuracy, although it's always fun to read. However, I wouldn't place too much faith in the accuracy of this report without further evidence.

Saturday, November 1, 2008

The Singer Saga Continues

Billboard is today reporting that the new Led Zeppelin singer will, in fact, be Myles Kennedy. The story has been out there for a long time, but note that it has never been denied, like the recent Jack White and Stephen Tyler denials. Billboard is stating, however, that "sources in the know" are telling them it will be Kennedy - assuming Robert Plant still does not want to go:

Who needs Robert Plant? Apparently not the other surviving members of Led Zeppelin, who are ready to pull the trigger on a tour with a new singer if Plant refuses to join in. Sources tell Billboard the frontman first in line for the gig is Myles Kennedy, who has most recently led the rock outfit Alter Bridge.

Kennedy has rehearsed with Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page, bassist John Paul Jones and drummer Jason Bonham on several occasions, according to sources in the know. In a recent BBC interview, Jones confirmed the band was planning to tour but didn't refer to Kennedy by name.
Note the suggestion that Page, Jones and Bonham are still waiting for Robert Plant, hoping he will change his mind.

Note also that, while I use the term "new Led Zeppelin singer," Billboard only refers to the "surviving members of Led Zeppelin." No one knows what a new unit with a different singer will be called. Until such time Led Zeppelin is the least confusing name, but it is not to be considered accurate that the band will tour as Led Zeppelin.

The Singer Saga Continues

Billboard is today reporting that the new Led Zeppelin singer will, in fact, be Myles Kennedy. The story has been out there for a long time, but note that it has never been denied, like the recent Jack White and Stephen Tyler denials. Billboard is stating, however, that "sources in the know" are telling them it will be Kennedy - assuming Robert Plant still does not want to go:

Who needs Robert Plant? Apparently not the other surviving members of Led Zeppelin, who are ready to pull the trigger on a tour with a new singer if Plant refuses to join in. Sources tell Billboard the frontman first in line for the gig is Myles Kennedy, who has most recently led the rock outfit Alter Bridge.

Kennedy has rehearsed with Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page, bassist John Paul Jones and drummer Jason Bonham on several occasions, according to sources in the know. In a recent BBC interview, Jones confirmed the band was planning to tour but didn't refer to Kennedy by name.
Note the suggestion that Page, Jones and Bonham are still waiting for Robert Plant, hoping he will change his mind.

Note also that, while I use the term "new Led Zeppelin singer," Billboard only refers to the "surviving members of Led Zeppelin." No one knows what a new unit with a different singer will be called. Until such time Led Zeppelin is the least confusing name, but it is not to be considered accurate that the band will tour as Led Zeppelin.

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

John Paul Jones: "Album and Tour"

Vic Morgan of BBC Radio Devon gets an interview with John Paul Jones at the Manson Guitar Show in Exeter last weekend. There's two clips and in the first he mostly discusses playing bluegrass, but he adds:

on the 02 show (5:43)
Vic Morgan: "It was one of the greatest moments of my life, how was it for you?"
John Paul Jones: "It was wonderful, it was wonderful. It was a combination of a lot of hard work. We worked really, really hard. It wasn't just a matter of getting through the show and just hoping that people hearing the songs again would carry us through. We were determined to give a really top of the line performance. And you've got to be so familiar with it all again and then move on to the next level. And it was very important to us that we did that, and we did it. I think we pulled it off. We put a tremendous amount of work in it, a lot of focus on that one show"




The second one has, for our purposes here, more meat on it:



VM (1:48) Just a final question then. You did say earlier you were working with Jimmy Page, were working with Jason Bonham. What is happening? 'Cause we've heard that Robert Plant doesn't want to do it. We've heard Myles Kennedy has been mentioned. What is happening?
JPJ: We're trying out a couple of singers and basically, when we know what we're going to do, we'll let you know, we'll let everyone else know.
VM: You obviously want to do it though.
JPJ: We do want to do it. It's sounding great what we're doing. We're very happy and we really want to get on and get out there. Times getting on (laughs)
VM: Is there a feeling that if you don't do it shortly you wouldn't want to do it, really?
JPJ: Not we wouldn't want to, but it's got to be right, you know. Just trying to re-create, just find another Robert, I mean you could get somebody out of a tribute band. What's the point. We don't want to be our own tribute band.
VM: And just a final point, would there be a record coming out? What is it, just touring?
JPJ: Well, yea. Yea, there would be a record and tour, yea. But we have to got to have everybody on board. Everybody that we want. That's what we're working for, that's our job.


And there you have it. The members of Led Zeppelin, minus Robert Plant are "trying out a couple of singers," and plan on doing a record and tour. Myles Kennedy was specifically mentioned by interviewer Vic Morgan, and not denied by John Paul Jones, although that only seems to confirm that Kennedy played with them.

As The Lemon points out as well, "Jones never said the project will be called Led Zeppelin." A valid point, and they may well tour as The Knobs, The old Yardbirds or some other name. But make no mistake, it will be seen, and sold as a Led Zeppelin show.

h/t Lemon Squeezings: Led Zeppelin News

John Paul Jones: "Album and Tour"

Vic Morgan of BBC Radio Devon gets an interview with John Paul Jones at the Manson Guitar Show in Exeter last weekend. There's two clips and in the first he mostly discusses playing bluegrass, but he adds:

on the 02 show (5:43)
Vic Morgan: "It was one of the greatest moments of my life, how was it for you?"
John Paul Jones: "It was wonderful, it was wonderful. It was a combination of a lot of hard work. We worked really, really hard. It wasn't just a matter of getting through the show and just hoping that people hearing the songs again would carry us through. We were determined to give a really top of the line performance. And you've got to be so familiar with it all again and then move on to the next level. And it was very important to us that we did that, and we did it. I think we pulled it off. We put a tremendous amount of work in it, a lot of focus on that one show"




The second one has, for our purposes here, more meat on it:



VM (1:48) Just a final question then. You did say earlier you were working with Jimmy Page, were working with Jason Bonham. What is happening? 'Cause we've heard that Robert Plant doesn't want to do it. We've heard Myles Kennedy has been mentioned. What is happening?
JPJ: We're trying out a couple of singers and basically, when we know what we're going to do, we'll let you know, we'll let everyone else know.
VM: You obviously want to do it though.
JPJ: We do want to do it. It's sounding great what we're doing. We're very happy and we really want to get on and get out there. Times getting on (laughs)
VM: Is there a feeling that if you don't do it shortly you wouldn't want to do it, really?
JPJ: Not we wouldn't want to, but it's got to be right, you know. Just trying to re-create, just find another Robert, I mean you could get somebody out of a tribute band. What's the point. We don't want to be our own tribute band.
VM: And just a final point, would there be a record coming out? What is it, just touring?
JPJ: Well, yea. Yea, there would be a record and tour, yea. But we have to got to have everybody on board. Everybody that we want. That's what we're working for, that's our job.


And there you have it. The members of Led Zeppelin, minus Robert Plant are "trying out a couple of singers," and plan on doing a record and tour. Myles Kennedy was specifically mentioned by interviewer Vic Morgan, and not denied by John Paul Jones, although that only seems to confirm that Kennedy played with them.

As The Lemon points out as well, "Jones never said the project will be called Led Zeppelin." A valid point, and they may well tour as The Knobs, The old Yardbirds or some other name. But make no mistake, it will be seen, and sold as a Led Zeppelin show.

h/t Lemon Squeezings: Led Zeppelin News

Monday, October 27, 2008

John Paul Jones: we really hope that something is going to happen soon

John Paul Jones has told a Q& A session at Manson's Guitar Show in Exeter last weekend that Led Zeppelin are looking to tour, and are looking for a new singer:

John Paul Jones said, "As you probably know, Jimmy, Jason and I are actually rehearsing and we've had the odd singer come in and have a bash. As soon as we know — which we don't — we will let you know. But we really hope that something is going to happen soon because we really want to do it and we're having a lot of fun, actually, just rehearsing. Jason is actually tremendous... And what we've done so far sounds absolutely fantastic. When it does come, it will come, and you'll know about it."

He then added, "We really wanna do something and Robert doesn't want to do this, at least for the moment. I don't really know what his plans are. He really doesn't want to make loud music anymore. We do. I mean, I love acoustic music, but it doesn't stop me from turning something up." Jones also indicated during the interview that there could well be a DVD of the O2 show released.

It looks like something is on, and soon. Now if only they could talk Robert into joining them...

John Paul Jones: we really hope that something is going to happen soon

John Paul Jones has told a Q& A session at Manson's Guitar Show in Exeter last weekend that Led Zeppelin are looking to tour, and are looking for a new singer:

John Paul Jones said, "As you probably know, Jimmy, Jason and I are actually rehearsing and we've had the odd singer come in and have a bash. As soon as we know — which we don't — we will let you know. But we really hope that something is going to happen soon because we really want to do it and we're having a lot of fun, actually, just rehearsing. Jason is actually tremendous... And what we've done so far sounds absolutely fantastic. When it does come, it will come, and you'll know about it."

He then added, "We really wanna do something and Robert doesn't want to do this, at least for the moment. I don't really know what his plans are. He really doesn't want to make loud music anymore. We do. I mean, I love acoustic music, but it doesn't stop me from turning something up." Jones also indicated during the interview that there could well be a DVD of the O2 show released.

It looks like something is on, and soon. Now if only they could talk Robert into joining them...

Saturday, October 25, 2008

New Replacement for Robert Plant Rumour

I concede all these rumours get a bit ridiculous and that furthermore most are trash. A few weeks ago The Toronto Sun pondered some possible replacements, serious and silly, and a week later Jack White was officially denying he was replacing Robert Plant. However, this is a rumour site, so it behoves me to report the rumours, serious or silly:

It is still not yet confirmed whether former lead singer Robert Plant will join Led Zeppelin on their next tour, which may go some way to explaining why the band have been having secret rehearsals with Aerosmith singer Steve Tyler.

I’m told the rock star spent several days in a recording studio in Putney ‘jamming’ with Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham.

‘Steve was jamming with Zep. They had a great time but Steve kept fluffing his lines. He got quite flustered about it,’ says a source.

Perhaps that’s why singer Myles Kennedy has also been hanging out with the band?
I know that Tyler and bandmate Joe Perry are long time Zeppelin fans, but somehow I suspect this falls in the silly category none the less.

New Replacement for Robert Plant Rumour

I concede all these rumours get a bit ridiculous and that furthermore most are trash. A few weeks ago The Toronto Sun pondered some possible replacements, serious and silly, and a week later Jack White was officially denying he was replacing Robert Plant. However, this is a rumour site, so it behoves me to report the rumours, serious or silly:

It is still not yet confirmed whether former lead singer Robert Plant will join Led Zeppelin on their next tour, which may go some way to explaining why the band have been having secret rehearsals with Aerosmith singer Steve Tyler.

I’m told the rock star spent several days in a recording studio in Putney ‘jamming’ with Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham.

‘Steve was jamming with Zep. They had a great time but Steve kept fluffing his lines. He got quite flustered about it,’ says a source.

Perhaps that’s why singer Myles Kennedy has also been hanging out with the band?
I know that Tyler and bandmate Joe Perry are long time Zeppelin fans, but somehow I suspect this falls in the silly category none the less.

Thursday, October 9, 2008

This is getting silly

The Toronto Sun today speculate on who may replace Robert Plant as front man for Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham if they decide to tour without Plant. Their choice? The White Stripes Jack White. It's hard to imagine too many scenarios where this blog wouldn't part with a few hundred hard earned to see the aforementioned, but Jack White on vocals may just be the one.

They also suggest a variety of other possibles, including: Dave Grohl, Chris Cornell, Axl Rose, Sammy Hagar, Paul Rodgers, Ann Wilson and, dear God! David Coverdale. Also mentioned are previously mentioned here Myles Kennedy and some guy called Robert Plant.

Jack White, David Coverdale and Axl Rose: this is getting out of hand.

This is getting silly

The Toronto Sun today speculate on who may replace Robert Plant as front man for Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham if they decide to tour without Plant. Their choice? The White Stripes Jack White. It's hard to imagine too many scenarios where this blog wouldn't part with a few hundred hard earned to see the aforementioned, but Jack White on vocals may just be the one.

They also suggest a variety of other possibles, including: Dave Grohl, Chris Cornell, Axl Rose, Sammy Hagar, Paul Rodgers, Ann Wilson and, dear God! David Coverdale. Also mentioned are previously mentioned here Myles Kennedy and some guy called Robert Plant.

Jack White, David Coverdale and Axl Rose: this is getting out of hand.

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Myles Kennedy to fill Robert Plants Snake Skins?

An interview with Dee Snider of Twisted Sister and (more recently) Ramsey's Kitchen Nightmares, for Much More Music's Where You At Baby produced the following:

...cause my manager represents Robert, and works with him, is that there saying, if you... were all rehearsed, were ready to go, here's a Gazillion dollars on the table. If you don't do it, we're going out with this kid (laughs) and he can sing the shit out of Zeppelin. And, ah, and there going to hope that Robert at the last minute will go OK and step in, before having the lead singer of Alter Bridge out with John Paul Jones, Jimmy Page and Jason Bonham.

I've been hearing the Myles Kennedy rumour for a while now, and have checked him out (and just because Dee Snider says it's so, doesn't make it so). He's a real singer, but whether his style is suitably Zeppelin, it's hard to say. My feeling is he could work very well if they produce some new music. But if Page, Bonham and Jones are just taking Mothership on the road, then Anne Wilson is probably just as good.

Here's Myles Kennedy and Alter Bridge doing Kashmir, which leads to a question: Does Page let Kennedy play any guitar? I would say another guitar player just inhibits Page's freedom.

Myles Kennedy to fill Robert Plants Snake Skins?

An interview with Dee Snider of Twisted Sister and (more recently) Ramsey's Kitchen Nightmares, for Much More Music's Where You At Baby produced the following:

...cause my manager represents Robert, and works with him, is that there saying, if you... were all rehearsed, were ready to go, here's a Gazillion dollars on the table. If you don't do it, we're going out with this kid (laughs) and he can sing the shit out of Zeppelin. And, ah, and there going to hope that Robert at the last minute will go OK and step in, before having the lead singer of Alter Bridge out with John Paul Jones, Jimmy Page and Jason Bonham.

I've been hearing the Myles Kennedy rumour for a while now, and have checked him out (and just because Dee Snider says it's so, doesn't make it so). He's a real singer, but whether his style is suitably Zeppelin, it's hard to say. My feeling is he could work very well if they produce some new music. But if Page, Bonham and Jones are just taking Mothership on the road, then Anne Wilson is probably just as good.

Here's Myles Kennedy and Alter Bridge doing Kashmir, which leads to a question: Does Page let Kennedy play any guitar? I would say another guitar player just inhibits Page's freedom.

Monday, September 29, 2008

Robert Plant Will Not Tour With Led Zeppelin

It's a sad day for Led Zeppelin fans: Robert Plant has announced that he will not tour with Led Zeppelin in the coming year, in fact, will not tour at all for the next two years.

From RobertPlant.com:

Robert Plant and Alison Krauss are currently touring the USA on the last leg of their 'Raising Sand' tour. They played a benefit concert in Oklahoma City for victims of Hurricane Ike last Friday; Austin,Texas last Saturday and tomorrow they play Portland, Oregon before finishing the tour in Saratoga, California on October 5th.

After those dates, Robert has no intention whatsoever of touring with anyone for at least the next two years. Contrary to a spate of recent reports, Robert Plant will not be touring or recording with Led Zeppelin. Anyone buying tickets online to any such event will be buying bogus tickets.

It‘s both frustrating and ridiculous for this story to continue to
rear its head when all the musicians that surround the story are keen to get on with their individual projects and move forward,” Robert Plant said.

I wish Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham nothing but success with any future projects,” he added.
So that is that, it appears. Either Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham go out with someone else, or the Zeppelin dream is over for now.

Robert Plant Will Not Tour With Led Zeppelin

It's a sad day for Led Zeppelin fans: Robert Plant has announced that he will not tour with Led Zeppelin in the coming year, in fact, will not tour at all for the next two years.

From RobertPlant.com:

Robert Plant and Alison Krauss are currently touring the USA on the last leg of their 'Raising Sand' tour. They played a benefit concert in Oklahoma City for victims of Hurricane Ike last Friday; Austin,Texas last Saturday and tomorrow they play Portland, Oregon before finishing the tour in Saratoga, California on October 5th.

After those dates, Robert has no intention whatsoever of touring with anyone for at least the next two years. Contrary to a spate of recent reports, Robert Plant will not be touring or recording with Led Zeppelin. Anyone buying tickets online to any such event will be buying bogus tickets.

It‘s both frustrating and ridiculous for this story to continue to
rear its head when all the musicians that surround the story are keen to get on with their individual projects and move forward,” Robert Plant said.

I wish Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham nothing but success with any future projects,” he added.
So that is that, it appears. Either Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham go out with someone else, or the Zeppelin dream is over for now.

Friday, September 26, 2008

Led Zeppelin to Tour

As always, take such stories with a grain of salt. However, something seems to be happening in camp Zeppelin, and The Sun and Daily Telegraph are reporting that Robert Plant and the boys are making arrangements for a summer 2009 tour:

ROCK legends LED ZEPPELIN are set for a reunion tour after singer ROBERT PLANT finally caved in and agreed to join them.

Guitarist JIMMY PAGE, 64, bassist JOHN PAUL JONES, 62, and drummer JASON BONHAM, 42, had resigned themselves to touring without Plant.

They even rehearsed with stand-in singers - and one American was so impressive they were confident they could hit the road next year without Plant.

That was what finally persuaded him to return.

A source revealed: “The rest of the band had all but given up on Robert joining them, but they were determined to go ahead so had started to seriously explore other avenues.

“When Robert realised the band were serious about doing it without him, it made him think long and hard.

“He realised he couldn’t face the thought of not being involved.

“The band were over the moon when he told them the news.

“They are now forging ahead with the tour plans and they can’t wait to get on the road.”
Again, this is just rumour at this stage but I have an old adage when I write about politics, it's not about the polls, it's about what the politicians do. When Jason Bonham left his day job with Foreigner, that spoke volumes. Something is up, here's hoping this is what.

Led Zeppelin to Tour

As always, take such stories with a grain of salt. However, something seems to be happening in camp Zeppelin, and The Sun and Daily Telegraph are reporting that Robert Plant and the boys are making arrangements for a summer 2009 tour:

ROCK legends LED ZEPPELIN are set for a reunion tour after singer ROBERT PLANT finally caved in and agreed to join them.

Guitarist JIMMY PAGE, 64, bassist JOHN PAUL JONES, 62, and drummer JASON BONHAM, 42, had resigned themselves to touring without Plant.

They even rehearsed with stand-in singers - and one American was so impressive they were confident they could hit the road next year without Plant.

That was what finally persuaded him to return.

A source revealed: “The rest of the band had all but given up on Robert joining them, but they were determined to go ahead so had started to seriously explore other avenues.

“When Robert realised the band were serious about doing it without him, it made him think long and hard.

“He realised he couldn’t face the thought of not being involved.

“The band were over the moon when he told them the news.

“They are now forging ahead with the tour plans and they can’t wait to get on the road.”
Again, this is just rumour at this stage but I have an old adage when I write about politics, it's not about the polls, it's about what the politicians do. When Jason Bonham left his day job with Foreigner, that spoke volumes. Something is up, here's hoping this is what.

Saturday, September 20, 2008

Zeppelin Yes, Robert Plant... No?

Could it be true? Could Led Zeppelin be considering the almost unthinkable, a tour with a singer other than Robert Plant?

This story comes from London newspaper The Sun, who apparently have a bit of a dodgy reputation. So take it, for now, with a grain of salt:

LED ZEPPELIN frontman ROBERT PLANT is to be given an ultimatum by his bandmates – join us on tour or we’ll replace you.

Zep guitarist JIMMY PAGE, bassist JOHN PAUL JONES and drummer JASON BONHAM have been busy recently rehearsing in West London’s Ritz Studio and using stand-in vocalists.

And one American singer has been so impressive the other band members are confident they could hit the road next year WITHOUT their iconic frontman...

A source said: “Jimmy, Jason and John are determined a tour will go ahead next year.

As said before, take it for what it's worth. However, when Jason Bonham left Foreigner, that action suggested something was up, so perhaps there's some truth here.

Zeppelin Yes, Robert Plant... No?

Could it be true? Could Led Zeppelin be considering the almost unthinkable, a tour with a singer other than Robert Plant?

This story comes from London newspaper The Sun, who apparently have a bit of a dodgy reputation. So take it, for now, with a grain of salt:

LED ZEPPELIN frontman ROBERT PLANT is to be given an ultimatum by his bandmates – join us on tour or we’ll replace you.

Zep guitarist JIMMY PAGE, bassist JOHN PAUL JONES and drummer JASON BONHAM have been busy recently rehearsing in West London’s Ritz Studio and using stand-in vocalists.

And one American singer has been so impressive the other band members are confident they could hit the road next year WITHOUT their iconic frontman...

A source said: “Jimmy, Jason and John are determined a tour will go ahead next year.

As said before, take it for what it's worth. However, when Jason Bonham left Foreigner, that action suggested something was up, so perhaps there's some truth here.

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Was That the Door Opening a Crack.

Robert Plant has reportedly told GQ magazine that he has no objection to
doing another reunion with Led Zeppelin, it's the bureaucracy involved that
puts him off:


From Contact Music

Rocker ROBERT PLANT has not ruled out another reunion with his band LED
ZEPPELIN - insisting it's the bureaucracy involved that puts him off the
idea.
The Kashmir hitmakers have been dogged by rumours of a world tour since they
reformed for a one-off gig in London last year (Dec07) - their first concert
in 19 years.
But singer Plant, who is currently touring with bluegrass star Alison
Krauss, has so far refused to agree to hit the road with the legendary group
again.
And he insists it's not the idea of a reunion which he is opposed to - it's
the paperwork that accompanies every live show.
He tells Britain's GQ magazine, "The endless paperwork was like nothing I've
experienced before. I've kept every one of the emails that were exchanged
before the concert and I'm thinking of compiling them for a book, which I
feel sure would be hailed as a sort of literary version of Spinal Tap
(semi-fictional heavy metal band featured in spoof documentary This Is
Spinal Tap).
"Led Zeppelin's never been about the fans. We've always been about four guys
coming together to make thrilling, disturbing rock 'n' roll. On our own
terms."

Was That the Door Opening a Crack.

Robert Plant has reportedly told GQ magazine that he has no objection to
doing another reunion with Led Zeppelin, it's the bureaucracy involved that
puts him off:


From Contact Music

Rocker ROBERT PLANT has not ruled out another reunion with his band LED
ZEPPELIN - insisting it's the bureaucracy involved that puts him off the
idea.
The Kashmir hitmakers have been dogged by rumours of a world tour since they
reformed for a one-off gig in London last year (Dec07) - their first concert
in 19 years.
But singer Plant, who is currently touring with bluegrass star Alison
Krauss, has so far refused to agree to hit the road with the legendary group
again.
And he insists it's not the idea of a reunion which he is opposed to - it's
the paperwork that accompanies every live show.
He tells Britain's GQ magazine, "The endless paperwork was like nothing I've
experienced before. I've kept every one of the emails that were exchanged
before the concert and I'm thinking of compiling them for a book, which I
feel sure would be hailed as a sort of literary version of Spinal Tap
(semi-fictional heavy metal band featured in spoof documentary This Is
Spinal Tap).
"Led Zeppelin's never been about the fans. We've always been about four guys
coming together to make thrilling, disturbing rock 'n' roll. On our own
terms."

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Jimmy Page and Leona Lewis: Whole Lotta Love

The moment. Jimmy Page in pony tail with his sunburst Les Paul. Leona Lewis does a good job of singing Whole Lotta Love, but it's not really in her style. None the less, the collaboration works. Try to ignore the dunderhead TV commentators who don't seem to realize SHUT UP WHEN SOMEONE ON STAGE IS SINGING!! Sheesh!


Jimmy Page, Leona Lewis and David Beckham: Olympic Breakfast Interview

An interview with the three main parties of the London Olympic committee interviewed prior to the closing ceremonies:

Jimmy Page and Leona Lewis: Whole Lotta Love

The moment. Jimmy Page in pony tail with his sunburst Les Paul. Leona Lewis does a good job of singing Whole Lotta Love, but it's not really in her style. None the less, the collaboration works. Try to ignore the dunderhead TV commentators who don't seem to realize SHUT UP WHEN SOMEONE ON STAGE IS SINGING!! Sheesh!


Jimmy Page, Leona Lewis and David Beckham: Olympic Breakfast Interview

An interview with the three main parties of the London Olympic committee interviewed prior to the closing ceremonies:

Saturday, August 23, 2008

Band, looking for singer

Led Zeppelin seems to be a rather official three peace band in search of a singer, as Jason Bonham has announced that he is leaving Foreigner.

I've been over [to England] a couple of times, I've been working with Jimmy [Page] and John Paul [Jones] and trying to do just do some new material and some writing. I don't know what it will be, but it will be something.

My time with Foreigner is coming to an end. This is the first time I've talked about it. I leave at the end of this month so, I mean, I'm looking forward to taking some time out to be with the family really. Since I moved to America I've been on the road, so my first priority is to go and watch my kids grow up, because they've grown up way to fast in the last four years.
Clearly something is in the works with Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones, and the main question is, will Robert Plant join them? If not, who will sing?

Band, looking for singer

Led Zeppelin seems to be a rather official three peace band in search of a singer, as Jason Bonham has announced that he is leaving Foreigner.

I've been over [to England] a couple of times, I've been working with Jimmy [Page] and John Paul [Jones] and trying to do just do some new material and some writing. I don't know what it will be, but it will be something.

My time with Foreigner is coming to an end. This is the first time I've talked about it. I leave at the end of this month so, I mean, I'm looking forward to taking some time out to be with the family really. Since I moved to America I've been on the road, so my first priority is to go and watch my kids grow up, because they've grown up way to fast in the last four years.
Clearly something is in the works with Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones, and the main question is, will Robert Plant join them? If not, who will sing?

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Whole Lotta Olympics

When Jimmy Page and Leona Lewis perform for the world at the closing ceremonies of the Bejing Olympics this Sunday (August 24th), they will be playing Whole Lotta Love.

What, exactly, they would play was supposed to be a secret, but bassist Guy Pratt has let the cat out of the bag on his personal blog:

You may also be interested to know that when Jimmy Page and Leona Lewis perform Whole Lotta Love at the end of the Olympics, that’s me playing bass on it.

Whole Lotta Olympics

When Jimmy Page and Leona Lewis perform for the world at the closing ceremonies of the Bejing Olympics this Sunday (August 24th), they will be playing Whole Lotta Love.

What, exactly, they would play was supposed to be a secret, but bassist Guy Pratt has let the cat out of the bag on his personal blog:

You may also be interested to know that when Jimmy Page and Leona Lewis perform Whole Lotta Love at the end of the Olympics, that’s me playing bass on it.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

Happy Birthday Robert Plant

Born on this day 60 years ago, he is the voice and face of Led Zeppelin. When I was very young I, and I have met many since who think so, thought he was the guy Led Zeppelin.

Besides Led Zeppelin he has a solo career that spans over 25 years, 8 albums, plus an EP of R&B classics under the band name "The Honeydrippers." Most recently he has done a successful collaboration with bluegrass singer Alison Krauss.

Welcome to your pension years Mr. Plant. Perhaps it's time for that one last big tour, you know, while there's still time.


Happy Birthday Robert Plant

Born on this day 60 years ago, he is the voice and face of Led Zeppelin. When I was very young I, and I have met many since who think so, thought he was the guy Led Zeppelin.

Besides Led Zeppelin he has a solo career that spans over 25 years, 8 albums, plus an EP of R&B classics under the band name "The Honeydrippers." Most recently he has done a successful collaboration with bluegrass singer Alison Krauss.

Welcome to your pension years Mr. Plant. Perhaps it's time for that one last big tour, you know, while there's still time.


Thursday, August 14, 2008

Jimmy Page to Play the Olympic Closing Ceremonies

The Olympic closing ceremonies on August 24th will feature a handing over of the Olympics to London for the 2012 games. Part of the handing over will feature a performance by R&B singer Leona Lewis with Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page:

David Beckham will star at the Olympics closing ceremony in Beijing as the handover to London 2012 gets under way.

The spectacular event on August 24 will also see Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page performing a duet with pop star Leona Lewis.

And an incredible finale will feature Becks, 33, arriving on top of one of London's iconic red double-decker buses - before he kicks a football into the crowd to celebrate.

Let the guessing begin: what song will they perform.

Jimmy Page to Play the Olympic Closing Ceremonies

The Olympic closing ceremonies on August 24th will feature a handing over of the Olympics to London for the 2012 games. Part of the handing over will feature a performance by R&B singer Leona Lewis with Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page:

David Beckham will star at the Olympics closing ceremony in Beijing as the handover to London 2012 gets under way.

The spectacular event on August 24 will also see Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page performing a duet with pop star Leona Lewis.

And an incredible finale will feature Becks, 33, arriving on top of one of London's iconic red double-decker buses - before he kicks a football into the crowd to celebrate.

Let the guessing begin: what song will they perform.

Saturday, August 2, 2008

Reunion Goes Cold

Those like myself who watch for evidence of a Led Zeppelin reunion can't help but noticed how the trail seems to be getting very cold these days.

This week an old rumour was shot down when Gerry Toms, Grounds Boss at the Wales' Millennium Stadium, said:

It's dead in the water (not happening). Because the concert was a success there was hope of a tour, but that was a lot of speculation. It would be great if they would, but as far as we know that is dead in the water.

That's not ambiguous or open to interpretation. It also comes on the heels of rumours that Robert Plant is miffed with Jimmy Page after Page gave a lengthy speech, after accepting Led Zeppelin's Best Live Act, at the Mojo Awards last month and failed to mention the absent Plant.

This all comes at the same time as Robert Plant and Alison Krauss extend their tour into the fall. September and October dates in Texas, Missouri and the West Coast make Jimmy Page's "nothing until September," a distant memory.

If you are hoping for a Led Zeppelin tour, July was not your month and it seems farther away than ever.

Reunion Goes Cold

Those like myself who watch for evidence of a Led Zeppelin reunion can't help but noticed how the trail seems to be getting very cold these days.

This week an old rumour was shot down when Gerry Toms, Grounds Boss at the Wales' Millennium Stadium, said:

It's dead in the water (not happening). Because the concert was a success there was hope of a tour, but that was a lot of speculation. It would be great if they would, but as far as we know that is dead in the water.

That's not ambiguous or open to interpretation. It also comes on the heels of rumours that Robert Plant is miffed with Jimmy Page after Page gave a lengthy speech, after accepting Led Zeppelin's Best Live Act, at the Mojo Awards last month and failed to mention the absent Plant.

This all comes at the same time as Robert Plant and Alison Krauss extend their tour into the fall. September and October dates in Texas, Missouri and the West Coast make Jimmy Page's "nothing until September," a distant memory.

If you are hoping for a Led Zeppelin tour, July was not your month and it seems farther away than ever.

Saturday, July 5, 2008

Bonnaroo 2009?

Here we go again. This site is based on passing Led Zeppelin information, rumours &tc. along, and that is what I will do. Sometimes, however, the rumour just feels old and silly. None the less, here it is, from antiMusic and Gigwise:

Led Zeppelin will be reuniting at Bonnaroo 2009, June 12 - 15 2009. On drums may be the Foo Fighter's Dave Grohl, who is apparently waiting patently for the phone to ring.

This just seems like environmentalism in the name of journalism, recycling old rumours as new, but it's out there. Perhaps if Robert Plant is still uninterested Taylor Hawkins could fill in for him.

Bonnaroo 2009?

Here we go again. This site is based on passing Led Zeppelin information, rumours &tc. along, and that is what I will do. Sometimes, however, the rumour just feels old and silly. None the less, here it is, from antiMusic and Gigwise:

Led Zeppelin will be reuniting at Bonnaroo 2009, June 12 - 15 2009. On drums may be the Foo Fighter's Dave Grohl, who is apparently waiting patently for the phone to ring.

This just seems like environmentalism in the name of journalism, recycling old rumours as new, but it's out there. Perhaps if Robert Plant is still uninterested Taylor Hawkins could fill in for him.

Friday, July 4, 2008

Page and Plant presser next week?

Hidden Grok is reporting, via their newsletter, that Jimmy Page and Robert Plant will be holding "a press interview" next week. Here's what they say:

Plant and Krauss are tearing it up everywhere they play......much to the dismay of the other three members of Zepp. With Plant touring this summer with Krauss and Bonham spending the summer and fall with Foreigner, we can only hope that news of a few more reunion shows will surface in the winter or spring of 09. Indeed, Page himself is saying that the other members are busy working on other projects til next year. Oddly, a press interview is expected from Page and Plant next week. We will see what comes of that.
We'll see indeed. This seems to be a single sourced rumour, I cannot find anywhere else that is reporting a coming press conference. While I have a few ideas what such a press conference/interview could be about, it would be pure speculation. I'll save that for another day.

Page and Plant presser next week?

Hidden Grok is reporting, via their newsletter, that Jimmy Page and Robert Plant will be holding "a press interview" next week. Here's what they say:

Plant and Krauss are tearing it up everywhere they play......much to the dismay of the other three members of Zepp. With Plant touring this summer with Krauss and Bonham spending the summer and fall with Foreigner, we can only hope that news of a few more reunion shows will surface in the winter or spring of 09. Indeed, Page himself is saying that the other members are busy working on other projects til next year. Oddly, a press interview is expected from Page and Plant next week. We will see what comes of that.
We'll see indeed. This seems to be a single sourced rumour, I cannot find anywhere else that is reporting a coming press conference. While I have a few ideas what such a press conference/interview could be about, it would be pure speculation. I'll save that for another day.

Thursday, June 26, 2008

That's Dr. Jimmy

Via University of Surrey press release

The University of Surrey is proud to confer the honorary degree of Doctor of the University to Jimmy Page for services to the music industry. The award was made on Friday, June 20 at Guildford Cathedral. Jimmy generously signed a guitar (see attached photo) which will be given away in a competition at the upcoming GuilFest festival. Surrey’s involvement with GuilFest this year celebrates its innovative music programmes that reflect the diversity of contemporary musical practice.
Congratulations Dr. Jimmy - or is it Mr. Jim?

That's Dr. Jimmy

Via University of Surrey press release

The University of Surrey is proud to confer the honorary degree of Doctor of the University to Jimmy Page for services to the music industry. The award was made on Friday, June 20 at Guildford Cathedral. Jimmy generously signed a guitar (see attached photo) which will be given away in a competition at the upcoming GuilFest festival. Surrey’s involvement with GuilFest this year celebrates its innovative music programmes that reflect the diversity of contemporary musical practice.
Congratulations Dr. Jimmy - or is it Mr. Jim?

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Foo Fighters + Zeppelin Pictures

Ross Halfin is one of the best rock photographers in the business, good friends with Jimmy Page and taking credit for making the Saturday night collaboration happen. He has also posted a series of pictures from the concert, both on-stage and backstage:

http://www.rosshalfin.co.uk/foo-fighters/foofighters10.php


My favourite?

This one.

Foo Fighters + Zeppelin Pictures

Ross Halfin is one of the best rock photographers in the business, good friends with Jimmy Page and taking credit for making the Saturday night collaboration happen. He has also posted a series of pictures from the concert, both on-stage and backstage:

http://www.rosshalfin.co.uk/foo-fighters/foofighters10.php


My favourite?

This one.

Monday, June 9, 2008

More Zeppelin to Come

The Telegraph Newspaper is reporting that in an after show interview Saturday, Jimmy Page appeared to confirmed Led Zeppelin is ready to go with more shows:

In an interview after that concert, Page said the band were ready to reunite and perform more live events.

But he said that fans could have to wait until Autumn 2009 as band members had to tie up individual projects first.

Late 2009 for more Zeppelin! With rumours that the three J's, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham, have been putting in some studio time, late 2009 would give time to get some support material released.

Page and Jones performed Saturday at Wembley Stadium in London with the Foo Fighters. Cross your fingers Zeppelin fans, more may be to come, including that possible 40th anniversary tour.

More Zeppelin to Come

The Telegraph Newspaper is reporting that in an after show interview Saturday, Jimmy Page appeared to confirmed Led Zeppelin is ready to go with more shows:

In an interview after that concert, Page said the band were ready to reunite and perform more live events.

But he said that fans could have to wait until Autumn 2009 as band members had to tie up individual projects first.

Late 2009 for more Zeppelin! With rumours that the three J's, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham, have been putting in some studio time, late 2009 would give time to get some support material released.

Page and Jones performed Saturday at Wembley Stadium in London with the Foo Fighters. Cross your fingers Zeppelin fans, more may be to come, including that possible 40th anniversary tour.

Saturday, June 7, 2008

Led Zeppelin Perform with the Foo FIghters

The rumours through the week ran that Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham would reunite on-stage with the Foo Fighters Saturday night. The rumours where 2/3 true, as Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones performed Rock and Roll and Ramble On with the Foo Fighters during the final encore at Wembley Stadium in London.

The Zeppelin duo joined the Foos to play Rock and Roll with Dave Grohl on drums and Taylor Hawkins singing. Grohl and Hawkins then switched places for Ramble On. In the past Grohl has intimated that he would be willing to drum for Zeppelin should they reunite, so this event probably falls in the dream come true category for Grohl. However, there is no indication that anybody in camp Zeppelin is unhappy with Bonham, or that Bonham is dumb enough to turn down the payday should he be offered, so expect this to be a one off.


Update: Video now available of Rock and Roll. How long it will stay up is anybody's guess:


Led Zeppelin Perform with the Foo FIghters

The rumours through the week ran that Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham would reunite on-stage with the Foo Fighters Saturday night. The rumours where 2/3 true, as Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones performed Rock and Roll and Ramble On with the Foo Fighters during the final encore at Wembley Stadium in London.

The Zeppelin duo joined the Foos to play Rock and Roll with Dave Grohl on drums and Taylor Hawkins singing. Grohl and Hawkins then switched places for Ramble On. In the past Grohl has intimated that he would be willing to drum for Zeppelin should they reunite, so this event probably falls in the dream come true category for Grohl. However, there is no indication that anybody in camp Zeppelin is unhappy with Bonham, or that Bonham is dumb enough to turn down the payday should he be offered, so expect this to be a one off.


Update: Video now available of Rock and Roll. How long it will stay up is anybody's guess:


Friday, May 23, 2008

No Zeppelin for Toronto

The Toronto Sun has done a bit of digging and it is turning up zero on the Zeppelin to Toronto stories. This never was a very credible story, but the Sun puts it more or less to rest.:

Yesterday, though, two sources in the position to know both said they were unaware of any discussions involving Led Zeppelin playing in Toronto at any venue, with one source completely dismissing the speculation.

Music industry magazine Billboard inquired into the report "at the highest level" and, according to the magazine's news editor Jonathan Cohen, was "fairly confident there's nothing to it."

A spokesperson for the Rogers Centre yesterday said there is nothing to the reports regarding Led Zeppelin, but did not close the door.

Add in a little quick math. The Rogers Centre has other other events booked in August, including Major League Baseball's Toronto Blue Jays, Canadian Football League's Toronto Argo's and a National Football League Pre-Season game. Only one time in August is there a five day break in the schedule (let's assume for Robert Plant's voice sake there will not be four shows in four nights), during the last week of the month beginning on August 25th. For the record, Foreigner has a show on the 30th, so the shows would literally have to be the 25th, 26th, 28th and 29th. Certainly doable, but it's a tight schedule for such a big event.

Reading into the Sun story and looking at the Rogers Centre schedule, this one, sadly, begins to look like a non-starter.

One final thought, why would hip-hop TV be breaking this story? And notice on that story, they reference the discredited Ian Astbury "we're opening for a band you may have heard of. The name starts with an 'L' and has a 'Z' in it" story. Astbury himself has denied this one, but hip-hop TV is reliably sourcing it as proof "that Led Zeppelin had plans to go on tour sometime in 2008."

This story makes less sense the more you think about it.

No Zeppelin for Toronto

The Toronto Sun has done a bit of digging and it is turning up zero on the Zeppelin to Toronto stories. This never was a very credible story, but the Sun puts it more or less to rest.:

Yesterday, though, two sources in the position to know both said they were unaware of any discussions involving Led Zeppelin playing in Toronto at any venue, with one source completely dismissing the speculation.

Music industry magazine Billboard inquired into the report "at the highest level" and, according to the magazine's news editor Jonathan Cohen, was "fairly confident there's nothing to it."

A spokesperson for the Rogers Centre yesterday said there is nothing to the reports regarding Led Zeppelin, but did not close the door.

Add in a little quick math. The Rogers Centre has other other events booked in August, including Major League Baseball's Toronto Blue Jays, Canadian Football League's Toronto Argo's and a National Football League Pre-Season game. Only one time in August is there a five day break in the schedule (let's assume for Robert Plant's voice sake there will not be four shows in four nights), during the last week of the month beginning on August 25th. For the record, Foreigner has a show on the 30th, so the shows would literally have to be the 25th, 26th, 28th and 29th. Certainly doable, but it's a tight schedule for such a big event.

Reading into the Sun story and looking at the Rogers Centre schedule, this one, sadly, begins to look like a non-starter.

One final thought, why would hip-hop TV be breaking this story? And notice on that story, they reference the discredited Ian Astbury "we're opening for a band you may have heard of. The name starts with an 'L' and has a 'Z' in it" story. Astbury himself has denied this one, but hip-hop TV is reliably sourcing it as proof "that Led Zeppelin had plans to go on tour sometime in 2008."

This story makes less sense the more you think about it.