Led Zeppelin legend’s suit expected to sell for £1,500 at auction
A vintage suit worn by the iconic Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham is scheduled to be auctioned with an estimated value of £1,500. The distinguished pinstripe suit, dating back to the 1970s, bears a unique handwritten inscription inside the pocket, reading “John Bonham Esq 1974.” Hailing from Redditch, Bonham, together with Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones, formed the legendary rock group Led Zeppelin, which is often regarded as one of the greatest bands in the history of rock ‘n’ roll.
Led Zeppelin achieved immense success in the 1970s, selling a staggering 300 million records worldwide before the tragic death of Bonham occurred in 1980. A masterful drummer, Bonham was highly acclaimed in the music industry and renowned for his unmatched talent. His untimely demise took place after a prolonged drinking binge, where he reportedly consumed 40 shots of vodka and subsequently asphyxiated on his vomit.
Commencing on Wednesday, coinciding with the 45th anniversary of Bonham’s passing, the suit will be up for auction at Fielding’s Auctioneers. The anticipated price range for the suit is between £1,000 and £1,500, however, music devotees may drive the bidding price up significantly through their fervent engagement. The suit’s current owner initially acquired it through a charity raffle orchestrated by Bonham’s brother-in-law, Allan Weaver. Following Bonham’s demise, his brother-in-law, Pat Bonham, passed the suit to Weaver, who honored Bonham’s wishes by donating it to charity.
Earning the moniker “Bonzo,” Bonham was instrumental in solidifying Led Zeppelin’s rhythm section, helping establish them as trailblazers in the realm of rock music. Founded in 1968, Led Zeppelin had a monumental impact on the music industry with enduring classics such as “Stairway to Heaven,” “Whole Lotta Love,” and “Kashmir.” Bonham’s unparalleled drumming style, tempo, and innovative techniques revolutionized the art of rock drumming, leaving a lasting influence on countless musicians.
Scheduled for auction at Fieldings’ Auctioneers showroom in Stourbridge, West Midlands, the suit presents a unique opportunity for music aficionados and collectors to own a piece of history associated with the iconic John Bonham and the legendary Led Zeppelin.