The original heavy metal band?

The history of Led Zeppelin began with the end of the Yardbirds, in 1968, before I was even born. I was born in 1969, the same year that Led Zeppelin visited the U.S in four separate tours (the busy musicians also toured the other side of the Atlantic four times that year, as well as taking care of the writing and recording of Led Zeppelin II). I may not have been able to catch any of those shows (my mom was more of a Beatles fan); but, I do remember that the first album I bought with my own money was Led Zeppelin Presence. I thought it was powerful and heavy.

Formation of Led Zeppelin

The history of Led Zeppelin begins in late 1960’s England. Led Zeppelin was one of the original heavy metal bands, and was perhaps the first band to see fans ‘bang their heads’ to the music (no, for real). Led Zeppelin was the brain child of Jimmy Page, who recruited a smart, talented bass player in John Paul Jones. Of course, Jimmy plays guitar (and many argue he is the best guitar player of all time); although he did play bass guitar in his prior band. Jimmy had already played in The Yardbirds, first on bass, then playing a second lead guitar with Jeff Beck.

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