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Led Zeppelin: The Definitive Oral History of the Mighty Zep

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Published in Led Zeppelin: 1968 1980 Michael Shaw

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An Unprecedented Journey into the Heart of Rock Legends

A quarter of a century has passed since the passing of John Henry "Bonzo" Bonham, the thunderous drummer whose swing powered the most iconic rock band of all time, Led Zeppelin. In 2012, the surviving members of the band, Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones, reunited for a tribute concert at London's O2 Arena. The event was a resounding success, sparking renewed interest in the band's history and music.

This book, assembled by renowned music journalist Michael Shaw, is the definitive oral history of Led Zeppelin, told by the people who were there: the band members themselves, their friends, colleagues, and contemporaries. Through a series of in-depth interviews, Shaw paints a vivid and revealing portrait of the band's formation in the late 1960s, their meteoric rise to fame, and their tragic downfall following Bonham's death in 1980.

The Early Years

Led Zeppelin was formed in 1968 when Jimmy Page, the former guitarist of The Yardbirds, recruited Robert Plant, John Paul Jones, and John Bonham. The band's early years were spent honing their sound in small clubs and pubs throughout the UK. In 1969, they released their debut album, Led Zeppelin, which was an instant critical and commercial success. The album's heavy blues-rock sound and Plant's soaring vocals set the template for the band's future work.

Led Zeppelin: 1968-1980

by Michael Shaw

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7916 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	320 pages

The Rise to Fame

Led Zeppelin's second album, Led Zeppelin II, was released in 1969 and was even more successful than their debut. The album featured some of the band's most iconic songs, including "Whole Lotta Love" and "Heartbreaker." Led Zeppelin continued to release a string of successful albums throughout the early 1970s, including Led Zeppelin III (1970),Led Zeppelin IV (1971),and Houses of the Holy (1973).

By the mid-1970s, Led Zeppelin was one of the most popular and successful bands in the world. They were known for their powerful live performances and their ability to connect with their audience on a visceral level. The band's music was a mix of blues, rock, and folk, and they were able to create a sound that was both unique and timeless.

The Tragic Downfall

In 1975, Led Zeppelin released their sixth album, Physical Graffiti. The album was a double LP and featured some of the band's most complex and ambitious work. However, the album's release was overshadowed by the death of John Bonham's son, Jason. The tragedy had a profound impact on the band, and they began to drift apart.

In 1977, Led Zeppelin released their seventh album, Presence. The album was a more stripped-down and raw affair than their previous work. It was clear that the band was struggling to cope with the loss of Bonham's son. In 1980, Led Zeppelin released their eighth and final album, In Through the Out Door. The album was a commercial success, but it was clear that the band was no longer the same without Bonham.

The Legacy

Led Zeppelin disbanded in 1980 following Bonham's death. However, their music continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world. The band's influence on rock music is immeasurable, and they are considered one of the greatest bands of all time.

Free Download Your Copy Today

Led Zeppelin: The Definitive Oral History of the Mighty Zep is a must-read for any fan of the band. This book is the most comprehensive and in-depth account of Led Zeppelin's history ever written. Free Download your copy today and immerse yourself in the world of one of the greatest rock bands of all time.

Led Zeppelin: 1968-1980

by Michael Shaw

4.7 out of 5