Led Zeppelin, despite disbanding over 40 years ago, continue to exert an enormous influence on the world of rock music.
Their particular brand of power rock, marked by heavy, bold rhythms and electrifying riffs, redefined what it meant to be a rock star and carved out the foundations of the heavy metal genre.
Every member of the band – Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones, and John Bonham – made distinct contributions that collectively positioned Led Zeppelin as rock revolutionaries.
Their creative prowess is still widely studied and emulated by aspiring musicians. Dave Grohl, the Foo Fighters frontman, discusses his admiration for the band and how their album Coda shaped his music career, especially his approach to drumming.
Coda, released in 1982, was Led Zeppelin’s first compilation album. It featured unused tracks from various recording sessions over the band’s 12-year career and made its appearance nearly two years after the group disbanded in the aftermath of drummer John Bonham’s untimely death.
The creation of this album was more of a necessity, a contractual requirement to fulfill obligations to Atlantic Records and meet tax needs, rather than a passion project.
Nevertheless, Coda, despite being a collection of unused tracks and rarities, was celebrated as a work of brilliance in its own right.
The decision to release Coda, according to guitarist Jimmy Page, was influenced partially by the popularity of bootleg Led Zeppelin recordings among fans.
Upon discovering the extent of these unofficial recordings, Page decided to provide fans with something more legitimate and substantial.
This was no easy feat given that Led Zeppelin had a habit of releasing nearly all their recorded material, leaving little room for unexplored content. However, there were a few gems – eight, to be exact – that hadn’t yet been revealed to the public.
Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl holds Coda in high regard, considering it to be among Led Zeppelin’s finest works.
Discussing his admiration for the album, Grohl said, “Led Zeppelin entirely crafted my approach to drumming. No one can refute the impact of that band.
All their albums are exceptional. I personally favor Houses Of The Holy and In Through The Out Door over their first two albums, but Coda has a special place because it features ‘Bonzo’s Montreux’, John Bonham’s solo drum symphony.
I’ve spent countless nights perfecting that piece. I’d even perform it for you on the spot if you wish!”
As a swan song to their incredible journey, Coda encapsulated Led Zeppelin’s raw musical genius.
From the intoxicating blues strains of ‘I Can’t Quit You Baby’ to the folksy charm of ‘Hey Hey What Can I Do’, the album showcased their diversity and prowess.
Coda is a fitting tribute to Led Zeppelin’s legacy, a testament to their indomitable spirit and unrivaled talent, deserving every bit of the affection and admiration it continues to receive.
