Robert Plant Discusses Rock Drummers in New Book
Robert Plant recently participated in an interview for an upcoming book called “Backbeats: A History of Rock and Roll in Fifteen Drummers” by John Lingan, slated for publication on November 11.
The 304-page book includes a new interview with Plant discussing John Bonham and his experiences in the studio with Led Zeppelin, as revealed by LedZepNews.
According to the publisher, Simon & Schuster, the book offers “insider stories and exclusive interviews,” encompassing Robert Plant’s insights on Led Zeppelin’s iconic sessions.
Scheduled for release on November 11 in the US and on December 18 in the UK, the book delves into the rich history of rock and roll through the riveting stories of fifteen influential drummers and their counterparts in percussion, ranging from renowned figures like John Bonham and Charlie Watts to Ringo Starr and Questlove.
Rock music is inherently driven by rhythm, yet the drummers behind these pulsating beats often exist in the shadows. In “Backbeats,” esteemed music historian John Lingan endeavors to bring these often-overlooked heroes to the forefront, embarking on a captivating exploration spanning six decades of rock history.
Through meticulous research and compelling narratives, Lingan sheds light on the lives of fifteen groundbreaking drummers and their peers who collectively set the rhythmic foundation for an era. From Bernard Purdie’s profound collaborations with Aretha Franklin to Dave Grohl’s genre-defining contributions to Nirvana, these drummers revolutionized the possibilities within pop music.
While iconic figures like Ringo Starr and Charlie Watts are prominently featured, Lingan also champions the unsung talents of musicians such as Maureen Tucker of The Velvet Underground and Sam Lay, essential figures in rock’s evolution from the blues.
Rich in insider anecdotes and exclusive interviews—from Robert Plant’s recollections of Led Zeppelin’s legendary sessions to recording engineer Steve Albini’s firsthand recollections—”Backbeats” offers a revealing glimpse into some of rock’s most indelible moments. Highlights include Bob Dylan’s groundbreaking transition to electric at Newport, James Brown’s revolutionary creation of funk in the late 1960s, and the emergence of LA thrash metal in the early 1980s.
Beyond honoring a cohort of virtuosic drummers, the book serves as a heartfelt tribute to the art of drumming itself. “Backbeats” showcases how these exceptional artists not only maintained the beat but also propelled the course of rock and roll. A requisite read for music enthusiasts, the book presents a fresh and invigorating perspective on a narrative that we believed we knew inside out.