Phil Collins believes Led Zeppelin never surpassed their 1971 song
In the world of music, there are few bands as iconic as Led Zeppelin, and few musicians as synonymous with them as Phil Collins. Collins, who briefly became an honorary member of Led Zeppelin for a Live Aid reunion, experienced what could be considered one of the most disastrous comebacks in rock ‘n’ roll history. Taking the stage with big shoes to fill, Collins found himself in a situation where his lack of preparation was glaringly obvious. Jimmy Page, Led Zeppelin’s guitarist, expressed his regret in trusting Collins to know the songs well enough for the performance. The result? Collins, blissfully unaware, awkwardly bashing away on the drums during ‘Whole Lotta Love,’ leaving the audience and fellow band members stunned.
The Live Aid reunion was a disaster, to say the least, but Collins, despite the humiliation of that night, still holds a deep appreciation for Led Zeppelin’s music. His admiration for the band goes as far back as his childhood, where he looked up to influential drummers such as Ringo Starr, Charlie Watts, Ginger Baker, and Keith Moon. However, it was John Bonham, Led Zeppelin’s drummer, who truly captured Collins’ attention and earned the first standing ovation from him. Bonham’s drumming prowess and the way he blended seamlessly with his bandmates left an indelible mark on Collins.
One of Led Zeppelin’s standout tracks, ‘When The Levee Breaks’ from 1971, particularly resonated with Collins. The haunting blues epic showcased Bonham’s exceptional drumming skills, further solidifying his position as one of the greatest drummers in rock history. The sound’s raw energy, groove, and attitude spoke to Collins on a profound level. Bonham’s innovative decision to record his drums in a stairway added a cavernous quality to the beat, creating a distinctive sound that set the band apart.
Despite the disastrous Live Aid performance, Collins credits his admiration for Bonham’s drumming and the timeless quality of ‘When The Levee Breaks’ for inspiring him to pursue a career in drumming. The track’s impact transcended its release year, becoming a benchmark for exceptional drum recordings in pop music. Even Jason Bonham, John Bonham’s son and a drummer in his own right, acknowledges the track’s legendary status. The drum intro of ‘When The Levee Breaks’ stands out as a defining moment in rock history, a testament to John Bonham’s skill and influence.
In the end, Collins views the experience of the Live Aid reunion with Led Zeppelin as a crucial chapter in his career. Despite the embarrassment of that night, he recognizes the role it played in shaping his musical journey. While the performance may have been a disaster, the lasting impact of Led Zeppelin’s music, particularly John Bonham’s drumming, continues to inspire Collins. The legacy of ‘When The Levee Breaks’ endures as a powerful reminder of the magic that can happen when a talented group of musicians come together to create something extraordinary.