The singer is a harsh evaluator of his early work…
Most artists evolve over time, and Robert Plant is no different. The former "golden god" has wisely utilized his solo years to move past the grandeur of Led Zeppelin, delving deeply into his interest in various global music styles. He is a stern critic of his own creations, having referred to one Led Zeppelin classic as “horrific.”
This tendency is evident in the vocalist's frequent expressions of discomfort regarding some of his past work—including certain now-classic rock pieces. Led Zeppelin's debut album is regarded as one of their most impressive releases, and the creation of this album is featured in the new documentary Becoming Led Zeppelin.
During their initial rehearsals, guitarist Jimmy Page introduced his rendition of the folk classic ‘Babe I’m Gonna Leave You,’ even performing it during his first pivotal meeting with Robert Plant. Page once reminisced: “I used to perform that song back in the days when I would sit in the dark, playing my six-string behind Marianne Faithfull.”
Led Zeppelin allowed the song to transform, merging gentle folk elements with hard rock influences, thereby putting their own twist on the original material.
In a conversation with the Guardian in 2017, Robert Plant shared his regrets regarding his vocal style. “I recognized that the tough, manly way I approached singing wasn’t really what it was all about. For songs like [Led Zeppelin I’s] 'Babe I’m Going To Leave You,' I now find my vocals to be horrific. I really should have kept quiet!”
Nevertheless, Robert Plant has revisited the song in more recent years—the Page & Plant collaboration in the 90s featured a nine-minute live version; he’s also performed it with his bands Strange Sensation and the Sensational Space Shifters.
Perhaps he protests a bit too much…
Listen to Led Zeppelin’s ‘Babe I’m Gonna Leave You’ below.
Foo Fighters have ended their relationship with drummer Josh Freese. The drummer announced the news late at night in a statement on social media, expressing that he was "shocked."
Drummer Zak Starkey has officially departed from The Who. It's been a tough week for drummers in legendary rock bands, as just hours after Foo Fighters let go of their drummer...
Most artists experience growth over time, and Robert Plant is no different. The former golden god has made good use of his solo career, evolving past the grandiosity of Led.