Every band usually has a grounded member who holds things together, but Led Zeppelin defied this norm. The band’s virtuosity was highlighted when a radio station held a national poll for the greatest vocalist, guitarist, drummer, and bassist. Remarkably, fans voted Led Zeppelin members as winners in all categories.
Their collective talent brought a fresh energy to rock ‘n’ roll. While virtuosos existed before Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, John Bonham, and John Paul Jones, rock still had commercial constraints. Artists like Bob Dylan pushed boundaries, but Led Zeppelin went further, breaking away from radio-friendly norms. With thunderous drums, soaring guitars, extended song lengths, and a blend of rock and classical elements, they shattered the old rules of popular music.
This innovation deeply inspired young musicians like Geddy Lee of Rush. Coming from a challenging background, Lee found escape in Led Zeppelin’s defiance of convention. Yet, he had mixed feelings about their hit “Rock and Roll.” While the song was commercially successful, Lee found it too simplistic compared to the band’s usual complexity. “It’s too simple for me, too commercial,” he said, believing it lacked the adventurous spirit that made Zeppelin unique.
Despite this, “Rock and Roll” can be seen as part of the band’s depth—proving they could master simplicity as well as complexity.
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