The beginning of Led Zeppelin

In 1968 the #1 artists included Diana Ross & The Supremes, Herb Alpert, Simon and Garfunkel and of course The Beatles. In January 1969 the #1 single for that month was Marvin Gaye - Heard it through the grape vine. Also in January 1969, Led Zeppelin released their first self titled LP. It a tough thing to put into perspective but this video gives a good idea of the worlds introduction to Led Zeppelin.




It seems almost absurd to see the audience so placid while watching this. At the time, this must have been the heaviest thing they've ever heard and they don't even know how to react. Check out how intense John Bonham plays near the start of the song, that kind of playing has barely been matched since.

Also notice that this was obviously filmed before Jimmy Page bought his signature '59 Les Paul Standard. Here he is sporting a psychedelic Telecaster he received as a gift from Jeff Beck to say thanks for recommending him to the Yardbirds, securing him the spot over Eric Clapton (a spot he would later lose to Clapton only to start The Jeff Beck Group).

This whole show can be found on this here DVD along with a whole whack of other amazing gear.

Keep it unreal!