Robert Plant released a new single covering a song by his favorite Minnesota band
Renowned musician Robert Plant has once again showcased his admiration for Minnesota’s beloved indie-rock band by releasing a cover of one of their songs as the lead single for his upcoming album with a new band. The former Led Zeppelin frontman unveiled his rendition of Low’s “Everybody’s Song,” introducing listeners to the new project titled Saving Grace and announcing an accompanying tour.
This isn’t the first instance of Plant demonstrating his affinity for the cult-favorite Duluth trio, but it certainly stands out as a prominent tribute, especially following the passing of the band’s drummer and co-vocalist Mimi Parker. Plant’s take on Low’s “Everybody’s Song” offers a refreshing interpretation that diverges significantly from the original version released in 2005 as part of Low’s critically acclaimed album “The Great Destroyer.” Incorporating what appears to be a cuatro, a traditional Latin American stringed instrument, Plant infuses an exotic acoustic quality into the track. This distinctive sound is indicative of the overarching aesthetic of Saving Grace, a musical collaboration that pairs Plant with a new female co-vocalist, Suzi Dian, and a group of talented string musicians, including a cellist.
Plant’s homage to Low extends beyond this recent cover, as he previously included two other songs from the band’s 2005 catalog, “Silver Rider” and “Monkey,” on his 2010 album “Band of Joy.” In the wake of Parker’s tragic passing, various notable rock musicians such as the Pretenders’ Chrissie Hynde, Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy, and members of Sleater-Kinney have also paid homage to Low, with Hynde even declaring them her favorite band.
During a musical convergence, Plant crossed paths with Low’s co-founder and Parker’s husband, Alan Sparhawk, when the veteran Duluth rocker joined forces with Trampled by Turtles for performances on Willie Nelson’s Outlaws Music Festival in 2023, where Plant also shared the stage with Alison Krauss. Despite this connection, Plant’s fall tour with Saving Grace will not include a stop in Minnesota; instead, the band will perform in Chicago for two consecutive dates on November 12 and 13. Fans can anticipate the release of Plant’s new album, titled “Saving Grace,” scheduled for September 28 and available for pre-order.
In summary, Robert Plant’s recent cover of a Low song as the lead single for his upcoming album with Saving Grace, his new band, exemplifies his continued admiration for the influential indie-rock trio from Minnesota. As this musical journey unfolds, Plant’s collaboration with Suzi Dian and other talented musicians promises a unique and captivating listening experience, underscoring the enduring legacy of Low’s music and the profound impact it has had on fellow artists across genres.