John Bonham was not just a skilled drummer, but also an eye-catching member of the English band. However, simply watching Jimmy Page play the guitar passionately or Robert Plant sing with his captivating voice wasn’t enough. Bonham’s drumming was equally mesmerizing, particularly on songs like “Whole Lotta Love.”
His contribution to rock music involved breaking free from the traditional jazz and blues drumming styles. Bonham started hitting his drums with greater force, which later influenced genres like Heavy Metal, known for its powerful and fast-paced drumming.
John Bonham, also known as “Bonzo,” left an undeniable legacy in the history of music and rock. Much of Led Zeppelin’s success can be attributed to Bonham’s songwriting and drumming skills. He had a mastery of timing and drum techniques, evident when listening to the isolated drum track of Led Zeppelin’s acclaimed song, “Whole Lotta Love.”
His virtuosity is so exceptional that the song’s name barely does it justice, as it only captures the constant rhythms and chords. The song begins with an electrifying snare drum around the 40-second mark, introducing the other instruments with a roll. Throughout the song, Bonham maintains a frenetic pace, which was completely unconventional for the genre in its early stages.
During his 32 years of life, John Bonham experimented with various percussion instruments, including oriental instruments like gongs. He captivated audiences with his drum solos, a feat that few individuals dared to attempt. His greatness was so immense that when he passed away, Led Zeppelin disbanded. While it may seem exaggerated, the band understood the loss of their most essential foundation—the extraordinary talent of those godly hands.
