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It’s definitely happening, it’s just a matter of who will be involved. Yes, the long running saga of whether Led Zeppelin will properly reform and embark on a tour seems to be almost over, with bassist John Paul Jones confirming the band, with the exception of Robert Plant, are working together again.
Not only does it seem like Led Zeppelin will reform for a full tour but new material also looks likely. Because of Plant’s decision not to be a part of the reunion, the band are trying out new singers, and Steve Tyler from Aerosmith is the latest name to be mentioned.
According to BBC News, Jones was talking to BBC Radio Devon when he revealed the current state of play. He said:
“We are trying out a couple of singers. We want to do it. It’s sounding great and we want to get on and get out there.”
“It’s got to be right. There’s no point in just finding another Robert. You could get that out of a tribute band, but we don’t want to be our own tribute band. There would be a record and a tour, but everyone has to be on board.”
“The most pleasure is making music. I love listening to it, but nothing as much fun as having an instrument in my hand and communicating with people.”
I think it’s a good decision not to try and replace Plant like for like, as no-one would actually be able to slot in on that kind of level. Instead, the rest of Led Zeppelin seem keen on evolving to a new level and becoming a whole new band. And if they get the right singer, they could instantly become the best rock band in the world for a second time around.
Tyler is the latest name to be mentioned as a possible new singer for Led Zep, but personally I don’t think he’s right. In the same way as Jack White is a magnificent musician, he does his thing in his own unique way and it just wouldn’t fit in to the style and feel of the band.
I actually think Myles Kennedy, a man who I hadn’t heard of until the Led Zeppelin rumor arose, is the best bet. He’s similar enough to Plant to be able to cover the old material while offering enough new ideas and input to make any new material worthy.
Now all we need is for the remaining members of Led Zeppelin to choose their singer, announce details of the tour, and get in the recording studio. Is that too much to ask? Probably, as Jones and Page aren’t getting any younger. 2009 though, surely? Fingers crossed.
[Photo Source: From Newscom with permission]
