Throughout most of the twelve years between their formation and
disbanding after the death of drummer John Bonham, Led Zeppelin was
regarded as arguably the most influential group in popular music since
The Beatles. While seen as pioneers of British heavy rock, their sound
also embraced blues, psychedelia and folk music.
Earlier in his career Jimmy Page had been one of the most highly
sought-after session guitarists, while John Paul Jones was a versatile
multi-instrumentalist and experienced arranger, and Robert Plant was one
of the most individual vocalists of the era.
A deal signed with Atlantic Records allowed them total musical control,
and a deliberate policy of not allowing any tracks to be released as
singles in Britain helped to ensure maximum demand for their albums as
well as huge ticket sales every time they toured. Initially unpopular
with critics, they were much loved by fans on both sides of the Atlantic
and indeed throughout much of the world. This book provides a thorough
examination of each track on all the group's studio albums, additional
songs on official live releases and compilations of BBC sessions
material.