| The Robert Plant Homepage - The Big Blog 2008 |
 | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
December 9, 2008
Robert and Alison have signed a CD and poster to raise funds for two Grammy Award related
charities, the GRAMMY Foundation and MusiCares. The Items are up for auction which you can
check out by clicking here. The auction ends in a couple of days.
December 7, 2008
Funeral Services were held for Michael Lee this past week. The funeral was attended by Jimmy
Page and others in the music industry. Two nice articles were written, one from The Northern Echo
and the second from the Gazette Live.
Alison and Robert get nominated for five Grammy awards including Album of the Year. Winners
will be announced on February 8th. Here are the following categories they are nominated:
Album Of the Year: Raising Sand
Record of the Year: Please Read the Letter
Best Contemporary Folk/Americana Album: Raising Sand
Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals: Rich Woman
Best Country Collaboration With Vocals: Killing The Blues
November 30, 2008
From Uncut.Co.Uk:
Lee passed away earlier this week - November 24 or 25, according to conflicting reports - and the
circumstances or causes of his death are currently unknown. The drummer first worked with
Robert Plant on his 1993 solo album "Fate Of Nations", before playing with the singer and Jimmy
Page on their 1994 set "No Quarter: Jimmy Page And Robert Plant Unledded". Lee also performed
on the duo's Steve Albini-produced follow-up, 1998's "Walking Into Clarksdale". He also played
with The Cult, Echo And The Bunnymen and the reformed Thin Lizzy during his career.
From Blabbermouth:
Funeral services for British drummer Michael Lee (ROBERT PLANT, LENNY KRAVITZ, THIN LIZZY,
THE CULT, LITTLE ANGELS, THE QUIREBOYS) will be held on Wednesday, December 3 at 10:45
a.m. at Darlington Crematorium in Darlington, England. All flowers and cards can be sent to:
John Meynell Funeral Service
150 North Road
Darlington
County Durham, DL1 2EJ
United Kingdom
Daniel Stanton of Coallier Entertainment, which has worked with THIN LIZZY in the past, said in a
statement to BLABBERMOUTH.NET, "The results of post mortem was a seizure, apparently the
worst one he could have had. "Michael passed away at his flat (home) in Darlington. He was found
at his home by his friend and police on the floor beside his bed. "Michael was out the night before
[he died]. He said he wasn't feeling well and went home to rest it off. When he didn't answer his
phone the next morning, a friend had the police enter his home. "Michael will sadly be missed. "I
have received endless calls from fans, friends and family members surrounding Michael's death.
"The guys in THIN LIZZY are crushed, I have spoken to people in the Robert Plant camp who have
also expressed the same. Spike from the London QUIREBOYS has been dedicating their shows
each night to Michael. Dave Ling from Classic Rock magazine is said to be doing a feature on
Michael Lee in an upcoming issue. "We will all miss Michael. His boyish smile, his humor, his
love and his talent, [but] most of all, we will miss his friendship. "Michael died way too young. He
shares his death with Freddie Mercury of QUEEN and drummer Eric Carr of KISS who also
passed away on the same date. "We love you, Michael. You are forever in our hearts and your
music forever in our souls."
Michael Lee was born Michael Gary Pearson on November 19, 1969. He landed a gig in Robert
Plant's solo band in time for 1993's "Fate of Nations" album and stayed with the LED ZEPPELIN
singer when he reunited with Jimmy Page in 1994. The drummer toured extensively with the
ZEPPELIN duo and appears on both PAGE & PLANT's official albums: 1994's "No Quarter: Jimmy
Page and Robert Plant Unledded" and 1998's "Walking into Clarksdale".
Paul McCartney speaks out on Plant
From Various Sources: Sir Paul McCartney has expressed his disappointment at Led Zeppelin's
decision to reunite without frontman Robert Plant. The Kashmir hitmakers announced in October
that they plan to hit the road in 2009 without Plant, who has opted out of the reunion shows. The
remaining stars, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and the late John Bonham's son, Jason, are now
auditioning singers to take over vocals. But fans of the rockers don't want to see the group with
another frontman - and former Beatle McCartney concedes it won't be the same without Plant. He
says, "What's happened to Planty? He was great at their gig. It's such a pity."
November 16, 2008
Plant and Krauss win best event at the Country Music Awards.
Their award was given away before the Wednesday Broadcast on CBS in the States.
Former Plant bandmate Doug Boyle with some new music:
On the Message Board Charlie posted a message:
This is to let you know that Doug(that is,me)is releasing tracks from the album 'The third rail' for
download ,beginning this week. Check my site at web.mac.com/dougboyle for imminent arrival...or
follow the link on myspace. Thanks for listening ,
November, 9 2008
Plant and Krauss up for Country Music Award
Tuesday, October 28
Led Zeppelin members to carry on with Plant confirmed?
There's been quite a bit of speculation about Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham
carrying on without Plant. Now it seems to be more of a reality as according to a recent interview
that John Paul Jones had with the BBC:
LONDON (AFP) – Legendary rock band Led Zeppelin are planning to return to recording and touring --
without singer and frontman Robert Plant, bassist John Paul Jones told BBC radio.
Jones said the hard-rocking British band were trying out different singers to replace Plant, who has repeatedly
voiced his reluctance to join in a full reunion after a mammoth one-off gig at the O2 Arena in London last
December.
Some 20 million people applied for 20,000 tickets for the charity concert -- the band's first full gig since they
split in 1980 following the death of drummer John Bonham. Jones said he, guitarist Jimmy Page and Bonham's
drummer son Jason were keen to get out playing concerts again, and were not hanging around waiting for Plant
to change his mind.
"We are trying out a couple of singers," the 62-year-old said. "We want to do it. It's sounding great and we
want to get on and get out there." Jones said the band were not searching for a Plant replica. "It's got to be right.
There's no point in just finding another Robert," he said. "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."
However, promoter Harvey Goldsmith said the band -- who he has worked with in the past -- should not tour
without Plant under their original name, saying: "If they're going out with another singer it's not exactly Led
Zeppelin." He said if they did do something all together, it should not include old material but "something new
and innovative that would turn them on".
The O2 show -- the first time the original three played together in public for 19 years -- was part of a tribute
concert for the late Atlantic Records founder Ahmet Ertegun, who signed the group in 1968. Led Zeppelin
went on to sell more than 300 million albums worldwide, with "Stairway to Heaven", "Whole Lotta Love" and
"Kashmir" among their best-loved songs.
Jones said the one-off London show was "wonderful." "The most pleasure is making music. I love listening to
it, but nothing is as much fun as having an instrument in my hand and communicating with people," he said.
Preparing for the O2 concert had been "very hard work," but everything had clicked on the night, he added. "It
felt like the next night of the last tour."
But while the others seem keen on keeping the momentum going from their hugely successful reunion gig, Plant
has said the context would have to feel right and he would not want to tour old material. Plant has been busy
touring with US country violinist Alison Krauss following a well-received hit album together.
In a statement on his website on September 29, Plant said he had "no intention whatsoever" of touring with
anyone for at least the next two years once his current tour ends.
"Contrary to a spate of recent reports, Robert Plant will not be touring or recording with Led Zeppelin.
Anyone buying tickets online to any such (an) event will be buying bogus tickets," the statement read.
Plant said: "It's both frustrating and ridiculous for this story to continue to rear its head when all the musicians
that surround the story are keen to get on with their individual projects and move forward. "I wish Jimmy
Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham nothing but success with any future projects," he added.
There has been no official word if and when anything will happen. The interesting part will be to
find out who will handle the vocal duties.
Monday, October 20
Another Led Zeppelin Box Set to hit the stores in November
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Who's is Robert Plant's replacement? If there is one...
Jimmy Page doesn't want Led Zeppelin to get stepped on?
It seemed that Jimmy Page has refused a chance for Led Zeppelin to get a star on the Hollywood
Walk of Fame.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Has Robert Plant been replaced? More Rumors no confirmation.
Without any confirmation from Page, Jones and Bonham this is the latest story to pop up from
various sources this one from Yahoo UK and Ireland:
Weekend reports claim that Led Zeppelin are planning to tour again – but without lead singer
Robert Plant. Instead, the three remaining members have recruited American vocalist Myles
Kennedy for the role. Kennedy, who's usually to be found fronting rockers Alter Bridge, has been
rehearsing with the band for a while now, according to the Sun.
The rumours come after reports just last month that stated Plant was to rejoin Led Zeppelin for
future dates. But now the newspaper are suggesting that Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and
Jason Bonham – son of original drummer John - have decided to take Kennedy out on tour with
them for the as yet unannounced dates.
Plant and Krauss production team win a TEC award in San Fransisco and also induct T Bone
Burnett into the TEC awards Hall of Fame.
Monday, September 29, 2008
They were just rumors... Plant denies Zeppelin reunion from Rolling Stone. Some people won't
let it go. I never did buy this story last week. Thought the timing was just odd since Plant was in a
middle of a tour with Alison Krauss. Thankfully he cleared up the rumors. Just wait five more
months and he'll probably have to clear them up again.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
More stories about Robert Plant (rumored) agreement to tour with Jimmy, John Paul and Jason.
Another tour write up from the Seattle Times
Plant and Krauss perform in Oklahoma City for Hurricane Ike Benefit
Great review from newsok.com
Plant, Krauss go above and beyond in OKC
By George Lang
Some concerts simply do justice to the artist's work, but others achieve transcendence. Robert
Plant and Alison Krauss, performing a hastily arranged benefit concert for Hurricane Ike victims
that attracted an unconditionally loving capacity crowd Friday night at the Zoo Amphitheatre, found
that extraordinary place where the event becomes more than anyone could have hoped. It was the
summit of the "golden god" and the bluegrass goddess, and the two singers achieved an
uncommon alchemy.
Plant and Krauss' "Raising Sand" disc was the jumping off point, providing the set's stylistic
framework of smoky, after-midnight mood music, but the duo's powerful set extended well into
Krauss' classic bluegrass repertoire, the deeper elements of Led Zeppelin and Plant's classic
solo work. And by the time Krauss and Plant launched into Zeppelin's "Ballad of Evermore," any
subdued, pops concert behavior from the crowd was replaced by a kind of rapture.
People were losing their minds, screaming as if it were the mid-'70s and Plant was still the
Dionysian rock conqueror instead of the leonine elder statesman holding court with Krauss,
whose crystalline voice was in perfect form throughout. Beginning with "Rich Woman" from
"Raising Sand," the two singers' voices blended beautifully as bandleader T-Bone Burnett
powered the band through the set and drummer Jay Bellerose beat his kit mercilessly with
timpani mallets.
Burnett has crafted a swamp-rock sound that finds the sweet spot between Plant's otherworldly
wail and Krauss' rural sweetness, and while it works beautifully on record, the live experience is a
whole other animal.
This was especially true when Krauss executed a flawless reading of Sam Phillips' "Sister
Rosetta Goes Before Us," with Plant, who until recently was unaccustomed to singing background
harmony, giving perfect support in the shadows, or when they came together for a surprising,
down-home rendition of Plant's synth-heavy early '80s hit, "In the Mood."
The audience seemed equally rapt by new songs such as "Fortune Teller"
and Zeppelin favorites such as "Black Dog" or their astounding version of "Black Country Woman."
Plant still sounded like the great howler of yore — it didn't matter that it was roots-music great
Buddy Miller pulling the strings instead of Jimmy Page. He was in his element, and the nearly
constant smile on his weathered face told the tale.
There were hints long ago that Plant could go this route, like when he performed Doc Pomus'
"Little Sister" with Rockpile in 1979 at the Concert for Kampuchea. While there is always a certain
hope that Led Zeppelin will rise again for a full-scale tour, his current pairing with Krauss is clearly
a labor of love, and an appreciative Oklahoma City audience returned that love in full.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Tickets now on sale for Plant/Krauss Hurricane Ike benefit
You can purchase tickets by calling (800) 511-1552 or visiting tickets.com or gotickets.com.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Robert Plant in the new for a few different reasons...
Robert Plant, Alison Krauss to play Hurricane Ike benefit in Oklahoma City
By Gene Triplett/The Oklahoman
Robert Plant and Alison Krauss will play a special benefit concert at the Zoo Amphitheatre on
Friday, Sept. 26, to raise money for the victims of Hurricane Ike, it was learned today. The singers
were scheduled to perform at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in Houston on that date but the
show was canceled due to the storm's devastation in that city. Howard Pollack, head of
Innervisions, which produces shows at the Zoo, said he received a call early today from Plant's
management, inquiring about the availability of the venue. "Yeah, it's going to happen," Pollack
said. "They called me up in my sleep. They said, 'Howard, we want to do a benefit.' What Robert
Plant just found out is how devastated Houston and the surrounding areas are. They just said,
'Hey, we want to make this a benefit. Can we pull this off in a week?'
"We're going to get everybody behind this. I think we can sell 6 or 7,000 tickets and all the money
goes to the victims. Tickets.com is kicking in. They're kicking in a major portion of their service
charges." Pollack said he expects several major corporations to offer sponsorship for the event as
well. General admission and reserved-seat tickets will go on sale Monday at Tickets.com or by
phone at (800) 511-1552.
Alison Krauss and Robert Plant's 'Raising Sand' wins album of the year at Americana awards
From the Associated Press:
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Alison Krauss and Robert Plant's album "Raising Sand" was a big winner at
the Americana Honors & Awards. "Raising Sand" won album of the year, and Krauss and Plant
were named duo of the year Thursday at the Ryman Auditorium.
Led Zep audition for new singer
From the Sun
Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant is to be given an ultimatum by his bandmates – join us on
tour or we’ll replace you. Zep guitarist Jimmy Page, bassist John Paul Jones and drummer Jason
Bonham have been busy recently rehearsing in West London’s Ritz Studio and using stand-in
vocalists. And one American singer has been so impressive the other band members are
confident they could hit the road next year without their iconic frontman. Brummie-born belter Plant
has refused to take part in any practice sessions as he is currently committed to his side project
with country singer Alison Krauss. A source said: “Jimmy, Jason and John are determined a tour
will go ahead next year. “They’ve been rehearsing frequently in London and the band is really
gelling. There’s an American guy who has been standing in for Robert regularly and doing a great
job. “Obviously they want the original frontman to join them on the road but he still won’t commit.
“They will be finalising plans for shows over the next couple of months and will tell Robert that if he
doesn’t want to be involved they will go ahead without him.” While fans would be disappointed if
Plant was not involved, the shows would still fill arenas worldwide. The band’s followers are
among the most dedicated in rock and would jump at the chance to witness Page, Jones and
original drummer John Bonham’s son Jason tearing through mighty rock classics such as
Kashmir and Whole Lotta Love. I understand Plant’s reluctance to revisit the past but the group’s
one-off reunion show at London's O2 in December was an incredible success. The only shame
was that more fans couldn’t witness it. In that night’s post-gig euphoria Plant came round to his
pals’ plan for more shows. But has since cooled on the idea. If he does not take part it remains
unclear whether the group will be allowed to use the name Led Zeppelin.
ROBERT PLANT SAYS 'PAPERWORK' HOLDS UP LED ZEPPELIN REUNION
From Launch
Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant says in the new British edition of GQ magazine that "paperwork"
is one of the main reasons why the band has not agreed to do any more shows following its wildly
acclaimed London charity concert last December. Plant explained that before that show took
place, "The endless paperwork was like nothing I've experienced before. I've kept every one of the
emails that were exchanged before the concert and I'm thinking of compiling them for a book,
which I feel sure would be hailed as a sort of literary version of Spinal Tap."
* Plant is not opposed to doing more Zeppelin shows, but added, "Led Zeppelin's never been
about the fans. We've always been about four guys coming together to make thrilling, disturbing
rock 'n' roll. On our own terms."
Monday, September 15, 2008
Pink Floyd's Richard Wright dies
Original Pink Floyd keyboardist Richard Wright passed away at the age of 65 to cancer. Surprising
news as I was unaware that he was sick. For those who are of the Pink Floyd that you hear on the
radio, they go beyond that. Back on July 4, 2006 he shared the stage with David Gilmour and
Roger Waters one last time. As close to a Pink Floyd reunion we'll ever get. While he contributed
some great atmospheric work with his keyboard he managed to write a handful of songs as well.
Most notably "A Great Gig in the Sky" and "Us and Them" from Dark Side of the Moon. He was out
of the band after the release of The Wall, although he did tour with them as a session musician
during that tour. He came back for Momentary Lapse of Reason and was also a part of the
Division Bell where I was able to finally see Pink Floyd in concert. If you get a chance pull out Dark
Side of the Moon or Meddle or their earlier psychedelic work "Careful With That Axe, Eugene" and
"A Saucerful of Secrets." Thanks for the great music Richard, you will be missed. Download some
Floyd on iTunes.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Led Zeppelin win a GQ award
From nzherald.co.nz
Led Zeppelin have won the Outstanding Achievement prize the GQ Men of the Year awards. The
accolade was handed to Jimmy Page and Robert Plant by Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl at
the glamorous event at London's Royal Opera House.
Led Zeppelin in the studio, let the rumors begin
From http://star-ecentral.com
Legendary rockers Led Zeppelin are working on new material, but without the participation of
frontman Robert Plant. Drummer Jason Bonham, who took over from his deceased father John,
said that the band has been involved in several recording sessions. "I've been working with Jimmy
and John Paul and trying some new material. I don't know what it will be, but it will be something,”
Bonham said. "At the moment, all I know is I have the great pleasure to go and jam with the two
guys and start work on some material."
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
A good number of Setlists from the 2008 tour have been updated.
Upcoming Tour Dates
Tuesday, September 23rd Kansas City, MO, Starlight Theatre - buy tickets
Wednesday, September 24th Saint Louis, MO, Fabulous Fox Theatre - buy tickets
Friday, September 26th, The Woodlands, TX, The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion - buy tickets -
this concert has been cancelled due to Hurricane Ike.
Friday, September 26th, The Zoo, Oklahoma City, Hurricane Ike Benefit
Saturday, September 27th, Austin, TX, Zilker Park ("Austin City Limits Music Festival") - buy
tickets
Tuesday, September 30th, Portland, OR, Rose Garden Arena - buy tickets
Wednesday, October 1st, Seattle, WA, Qwest Field Event Center - buy tickets
Friday, October 3, San Francisco, CA, Speedway Meadow @Golden Gate Park (Hardly Strictly
Bluegrass) - buy tickets
Saturday, October 4, Kelseyville, CA, Konocti Harbor Resort & Spa - Amphitheatre - buy tickets
Sunday, October 5th, Saratoga, CA, The Mountain Winery - buy tickets
Monday, May 19th
Recent picture of Alison and Robert in Düsseldorf with some fans from http://www.alisonkrauss.
de/
Robert and Alison have signed a CD and poster to raise funds for two Grammy Award related
charities, the GRAMMY Foundation and MusiCares. The Items are up for auction which you can
check out by clicking here. The auction ends in a couple of days.
December 7, 2008
Funeral Services were held for Michael Lee this past week. The funeral was attended by Jimmy
Page and others in the music industry. Two nice articles were written, one from The Northern Echo
and the second from the Gazette Live.
Alison and Robert get nominated for five Grammy awards including Album of the Year. Winners
will be announced on February 8th. Here are the following categories they are nominated:
Album Of the Year: Raising Sand
Record of the Year: Please Read the Letter
Best Contemporary Folk/Americana Album: Raising Sand
Best Pop Collaboration With Vocals: Rich Woman
Best Country Collaboration With Vocals: Killing The Blues
November 30, 2008
From Uncut.Co.Uk:
Lee passed away earlier this week - November 24 or 25, according to conflicting reports - and the
circumstances or causes of his death are currently unknown. The drummer first worked with
Robert Plant on his 1993 solo album "Fate Of Nations", before playing with the singer and Jimmy
Page on their 1994 set "No Quarter: Jimmy Page And Robert Plant Unledded". Lee also performed
on the duo's Steve Albini-produced follow-up, 1998's "Walking Into Clarksdale". He also played
with The Cult, Echo And The Bunnymen and the reformed Thin Lizzy during his career.
From Blabbermouth:
Funeral services for British drummer Michael Lee (ROBERT PLANT, LENNY KRAVITZ, THIN LIZZY,
THE CULT, LITTLE ANGELS, THE QUIREBOYS) will be held on Wednesday, December 3 at 10:45
a.m. at Darlington Crematorium in Darlington, England. All flowers and cards can be sent to:
John Meynell Funeral Service
150 North Road
Darlington
County Durham, DL1 2EJ
United Kingdom
Daniel Stanton of Coallier Entertainment, which has worked with THIN LIZZY in the past, said in a
statement to BLABBERMOUTH.NET, "The results of post mortem was a seizure, apparently the
worst one he could have had. "Michael passed away at his flat (home) in Darlington. He was found
at his home by his friend and police on the floor beside his bed. "Michael was out the night before
[he died]. He said he wasn't feeling well and went home to rest it off. When he didn't answer his
phone the next morning, a friend had the police enter his home. "Michael will sadly be missed. "I
have received endless calls from fans, friends and family members surrounding Michael's death.
"The guys in THIN LIZZY are crushed, I have spoken to people in the Robert Plant camp who have
also expressed the same. Spike from the London QUIREBOYS has been dedicating their shows
each night to Michael. Dave Ling from Classic Rock magazine is said to be doing a feature on
Michael Lee in an upcoming issue. "We will all miss Michael. His boyish smile, his humor, his
love and his talent, [but] most of all, we will miss his friendship. "Michael died way too young. He
shares his death with Freddie Mercury of QUEEN and drummer Eric Carr of KISS who also
passed away on the same date. "We love you, Michael. You are forever in our hearts and your
music forever in our souls."
Michael Lee was born Michael Gary Pearson on November 19, 1969. He landed a gig in Robert
Plant's solo band in time for 1993's "Fate of Nations" album and stayed with the LED ZEPPELIN
singer when he reunited with Jimmy Page in 1994. The drummer toured extensively with the
ZEPPELIN duo and appears on both PAGE & PLANT's official albums: 1994's "No Quarter: Jimmy
Page and Robert Plant Unledded" and 1998's "Walking into Clarksdale".
Paul McCartney speaks out on Plant
From Various Sources: Sir Paul McCartney has expressed his disappointment at Led Zeppelin's
decision to reunite without frontman Robert Plant. The Kashmir hitmakers announced in October
that they plan to hit the road in 2009 without Plant, who has opted out of the reunion shows. The
remaining stars, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and the late John Bonham's son, Jason, are now
auditioning singers to take over vocals. But fans of the rockers don't want to see the group with
another frontman - and former Beatle McCartney concedes it won't be the same without Plant. He
says, "What's happened to Planty? He was great at their gig. It's such a pity."
November 16, 2008
Plant and Krauss win best event at the Country Music Awards.
Their award was given away before the Wednesday Broadcast on CBS in the States.
Former Plant bandmate Doug Boyle with some new music:
On the Message Board Charlie posted a message:
This is to let you know that Doug(that is,me)is releasing tracks from the album 'The third rail' for
download ,beginning this week. Check my site at web.mac.com/dougboyle for imminent arrival...or
follow the link on myspace. Thanks for listening ,
November, 9 2008
Plant and Krauss up for Country Music Award
Tuesday, October 28
Led Zeppelin members to carry on with Plant confirmed?
There's been quite a bit of speculation about Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham
carrying on without Plant. Now it seems to be more of a reality as according to a recent interview
that John Paul Jones had with the BBC:
LONDON (AFP) – Legendary rock band Led Zeppelin are planning to return to recording and touring --
without singer and frontman Robert Plant, bassist John Paul Jones told BBC radio.
Jones said the hard-rocking British band were trying out different singers to replace Plant, who has repeatedly
voiced his reluctance to join in a full reunion after a mammoth one-off gig at the O2 Arena in London last
December.
Some 20 million people applied for 20,000 tickets for the charity concert -- the band's first full gig since they
split in 1980 following the death of drummer John Bonham. Jones said he, guitarist Jimmy Page and Bonham's
drummer son Jason were keen to get out playing concerts again, and were not hanging around waiting for Plant
to change his mind.
"We are trying out a couple of singers," the 62-year-old said. "We want to do it. It's sounding great and we
want to get on and get out there." Jones said the band were not searching for a Plant replica. "It's got to be right.
There's no point in just finding another Robert," he said. "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."
However, promoter Harvey Goldsmith said the band -- who he has worked with in the past -- should not tour
without Plant under their original name, saying: "If they're going out with another singer it's not exactly Led
Zeppelin." He said if they did do something all together, it should not include old material but "something new
and innovative that would turn them on".
The O2 show -- the first time the original three played together in public for 19 years -- was part of a tribute
concert for the late Atlantic Records founder Ahmet Ertegun, who signed the group in 1968. Led Zeppelin
went on to sell more than 300 million albums worldwide, with "Stairway to Heaven", "Whole Lotta Love" and
"Kashmir" among their best-loved songs.
Jones said the one-off London show was "wonderful." "The most pleasure is making music. I love listening to
it, but nothing is as much fun as having an instrument in my hand and communicating with people," he said.
Preparing for the O2 concert had been "very hard work," but everything had clicked on the night, he added. "It
felt like the next night of the last tour."
But while the others seem keen on keeping the momentum going from their hugely successful reunion gig, Plant
has said the context would have to feel right and he would not want to tour old material. Plant has been busy
touring with US country violinist Alison Krauss following a well-received hit album together.
In a statement on his website on September 29, Plant said he had "no intention whatsoever" of touring with
anyone for at least the next two years once his current tour ends.
"Contrary to a spate of recent reports, Robert Plant will not be touring or recording with Led Zeppelin.
Anyone buying tickets online to any such (an) event will be buying bogus tickets," the statement read.
Plant said: "It's both frustrating and ridiculous for this story to continue to rear its head when all the musicians
that surround the story are keen to get on with their individual projects and move forward. "I wish Jimmy
Page, John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham nothing but success with any future projects," he added.
There has been no official word if and when anything will happen. The interesting part will be to
find out who will handle the vocal duties.
Monday, October 20
Another Led Zeppelin Box Set to hit the stores in November
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Who's is Robert Plant's replacement? If there is one...
Jimmy Page doesn't want Led Zeppelin to get stepped on?
It seemed that Jimmy Page has refused a chance for Led Zeppelin to get a star on the Hollywood
Walk of Fame.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Has Robert Plant been replaced? More Rumors no confirmation.
Without any confirmation from Page, Jones and Bonham this is the latest story to pop up from
various sources this one from Yahoo UK and Ireland:
Weekend reports claim that Led Zeppelin are planning to tour again – but without lead singer
Robert Plant. Instead, the three remaining members have recruited American vocalist Myles
Kennedy for the role. Kennedy, who's usually to be found fronting rockers Alter Bridge, has been
rehearsing with the band for a while now, according to the Sun.
The rumours come after reports just last month that stated Plant was to rejoin Led Zeppelin for
future dates. But now the newspaper are suggesting that Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and
Jason Bonham – son of original drummer John - have decided to take Kennedy out on tour with
them for the as yet unannounced dates.
Plant and Krauss production team win a TEC award in San Fransisco and also induct T Bone
Burnett into the TEC awards Hall of Fame.
Monday, September 29, 2008
They were just rumors... Plant denies Zeppelin reunion from Rolling Stone. Some people won't
let it go. I never did buy this story last week. Thought the timing was just odd since Plant was in a
middle of a tour with Alison Krauss. Thankfully he cleared up the rumors. Just wait five more
months and he'll probably have to clear them up again.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
More stories about Robert Plant (rumored) agreement to tour with Jimmy, John Paul and Jason.
Another tour write up from the Seattle Times
Plant and Krauss perform in Oklahoma City for Hurricane Ike Benefit
Great review from newsok.com
Plant, Krauss go above and beyond in OKC
By George Lang
Some concerts simply do justice to the artist's work, but others achieve transcendence. Robert
Plant and Alison Krauss, performing a hastily arranged benefit concert for Hurricane Ike victims
that attracted an unconditionally loving capacity crowd Friday night at the Zoo Amphitheatre, found
that extraordinary place where the event becomes more than anyone could have hoped. It was the
summit of the "golden god" and the bluegrass goddess, and the two singers achieved an
uncommon alchemy.
Plant and Krauss' "Raising Sand" disc was the jumping off point, providing the set's stylistic
framework of smoky, after-midnight mood music, but the duo's powerful set extended well into
Krauss' classic bluegrass repertoire, the deeper elements of Led Zeppelin and Plant's classic
solo work. And by the time Krauss and Plant launched into Zeppelin's "Ballad of Evermore," any
subdued, pops concert behavior from the crowd was replaced by a kind of rapture.
People were losing their minds, screaming as if it were the mid-'70s and Plant was still the
Dionysian rock conqueror instead of the leonine elder statesman holding court with Krauss,
whose crystalline voice was in perfect form throughout. Beginning with "Rich Woman" from
"Raising Sand," the two singers' voices blended beautifully as bandleader T-Bone Burnett
powered the band through the set and drummer Jay Bellerose beat his kit mercilessly with
timpani mallets.
Burnett has crafted a swamp-rock sound that finds the sweet spot between Plant's otherworldly
wail and Krauss' rural sweetness, and while it works beautifully on record, the live experience is a
whole other animal.
This was especially true when Krauss executed a flawless reading of Sam Phillips' "Sister
Rosetta Goes Before Us," with Plant, who until recently was unaccustomed to singing background
harmony, giving perfect support in the shadows, or when they came together for a surprising,
down-home rendition of Plant's synth-heavy early '80s hit, "In the Mood."
The audience seemed equally rapt by new songs such as "Fortune Teller"
and Zeppelin favorites such as "Black Dog" or their astounding version of "Black Country Woman."
Plant still sounded like the great howler of yore — it didn't matter that it was roots-music great
Buddy Miller pulling the strings instead of Jimmy Page. He was in his element, and the nearly
constant smile on his weathered face told the tale.
There were hints long ago that Plant could go this route, like when he performed Doc Pomus'
"Little Sister" with Rockpile in 1979 at the Concert for Kampuchea. While there is always a certain
hope that Led Zeppelin will rise again for a full-scale tour, his current pairing with Krauss is clearly
a labor of love, and an appreciative Oklahoma City audience returned that love in full.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Tickets now on sale for Plant/Krauss Hurricane Ike benefit
You can purchase tickets by calling (800) 511-1552 or visiting tickets.com or gotickets.com.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Robert Plant in the new for a few different reasons...
Robert Plant, Alison Krauss to play Hurricane Ike benefit in Oklahoma City
By Gene Triplett/The Oklahoman
Robert Plant and Alison Krauss will play a special benefit concert at the Zoo Amphitheatre on
Friday, Sept. 26, to raise money for the victims of Hurricane Ike, it was learned today. The singers
were scheduled to perform at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in Houston on that date but the
show was canceled due to the storm's devastation in that city. Howard Pollack, head of
Innervisions, which produces shows at the Zoo, said he received a call early today from Plant's
management, inquiring about the availability of the venue. "Yeah, it's going to happen," Pollack
said. "They called me up in my sleep. They said, 'Howard, we want to do a benefit.' What Robert
Plant just found out is how devastated Houston and the surrounding areas are. They just said,
'Hey, we want to make this a benefit. Can we pull this off in a week?'
"We're going to get everybody behind this. I think we can sell 6 or 7,000 tickets and all the money
goes to the victims. Tickets.com is kicking in. They're kicking in a major portion of their service
charges." Pollack said he expects several major corporations to offer sponsorship for the event as
well. General admission and reserved-seat tickets will go on sale Monday at Tickets.com or by
phone at (800) 511-1552.
Alison Krauss and Robert Plant's 'Raising Sand' wins album of the year at Americana awards
From the Associated Press:
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Alison Krauss and Robert Plant's album "Raising Sand" was a big winner at
the Americana Honors & Awards. "Raising Sand" won album of the year, and Krauss and Plant
were named duo of the year Thursday at the Ryman Auditorium.
Led Zep audition for new singer
From the Sun
Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant is to be given an ultimatum by his bandmates – join us on
tour or we’ll replace you. Zep guitarist Jimmy Page, bassist John Paul Jones and drummer Jason
Bonham have been busy recently rehearsing in West London’s Ritz Studio and using stand-in
vocalists. And one American singer has been so impressive the other band members are
confident they could hit the road next year without their iconic frontman. Brummie-born belter Plant
has refused to take part in any practice sessions as he is currently committed to his side project
with country singer Alison Krauss. A source said: “Jimmy, Jason and John are determined a tour
will go ahead next year. “They’ve been rehearsing frequently in London and the band is really
gelling. There’s an American guy who has been standing in for Robert regularly and doing a great
job. “Obviously they want the original frontman to join them on the road but he still won’t commit.
“They will be finalising plans for shows over the next couple of months and will tell Robert that if he
doesn’t want to be involved they will go ahead without him.” While fans would be disappointed if
Plant was not involved, the shows would still fill arenas worldwide. The band’s followers are
among the most dedicated in rock and would jump at the chance to witness Page, Jones and
original drummer John Bonham’s son Jason tearing through mighty rock classics such as
Kashmir and Whole Lotta Love. I understand Plant’s reluctance to revisit the past but the group’s
one-off reunion show at London's O2 in December was an incredible success. The only shame
was that more fans couldn’t witness it. In that night’s post-gig euphoria Plant came round to his
pals’ plan for more shows. But has since cooled on the idea. If he does not take part it remains
unclear whether the group will be allowed to use the name Led Zeppelin.
ROBERT PLANT SAYS 'PAPERWORK' HOLDS UP LED ZEPPELIN REUNION
From Launch
Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant says in the new British edition of GQ magazine that "paperwork"
is one of the main reasons why the band has not agreed to do any more shows following its wildly
acclaimed London charity concert last December. Plant explained that before that show took
place, "The endless paperwork was like nothing I've experienced before. I've kept every one of the
emails that were exchanged before the concert and I'm thinking of compiling them for a book,
which I feel sure would be hailed as a sort of literary version of Spinal Tap."
* Plant is not opposed to doing more Zeppelin shows, but added, "Led Zeppelin's never been
about the fans. We've always been about four guys coming together to make thrilling, disturbing
rock 'n' roll. On our own terms."
Monday, September 15, 2008
Pink Floyd's Richard Wright dies
Original Pink Floyd keyboardist Richard Wright passed away at the age of 65 to cancer. Surprising
news as I was unaware that he was sick. For those who are of the Pink Floyd that you hear on the
radio, they go beyond that. Back on July 4, 2006 he shared the stage with David Gilmour and
Roger Waters one last time. As close to a Pink Floyd reunion we'll ever get. While he contributed
some great atmospheric work with his keyboard he managed to write a handful of songs as well.
Most notably "A Great Gig in the Sky" and "Us and Them" from Dark Side of the Moon. He was out
of the band after the release of The Wall, although he did tour with them as a session musician
during that tour. He came back for Momentary Lapse of Reason and was also a part of the
Division Bell where I was able to finally see Pink Floyd in concert. If you get a chance pull out Dark
Side of the Moon or Meddle or their earlier psychedelic work "Careful With That Axe, Eugene" and
"A Saucerful of Secrets." Thanks for the great music Richard, you will be missed. Download some
Floyd on iTunes.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Led Zeppelin win a GQ award
From nzherald.co.nz
Led Zeppelin have won the Outstanding Achievement prize the GQ Men of the Year awards. The
accolade was handed to Jimmy Page and Robert Plant by Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl at
the glamorous event at London's Royal Opera House.
Led Zeppelin in the studio, let the rumors begin
From http://star-ecentral.com
Legendary rockers Led Zeppelin are working on new material, but without the participation of
frontman Robert Plant. Drummer Jason Bonham, who took over from his deceased father John,
said that the band has been involved in several recording sessions. "I've been working with Jimmy
and John Paul and trying some new material. I don't know what it will be, but it will be something,”
Bonham said. "At the moment, all I know is I have the great pleasure to go and jam with the two
guys and start work on some material."
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
A good number of Setlists from the 2008 tour have been updated.
Upcoming Tour Dates
Tuesday, September 23rd Kansas City, MO, Starlight Theatre - buy tickets
Wednesday, September 24th Saint Louis, MO, Fabulous Fox Theatre - buy tickets
Friday, September 26th, The Woodlands, TX, The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion - buy tickets -
this concert has been cancelled due to Hurricane Ike.
Friday, September 26th, The Zoo, Oklahoma City, Hurricane Ike Benefit
Saturday, September 27th, Austin, TX, Zilker Park ("Austin City Limits Music Festival") - buy
tickets
Tuesday, September 30th, Portland, OR, Rose Garden Arena - buy tickets
Wednesday, October 1st, Seattle, WA, Qwest Field Event Center - buy tickets
Friday, October 3, San Francisco, CA, Speedway Meadow @Golden Gate Park (Hardly Strictly
Bluegrass) - buy tickets
Saturday, October 4, Kelseyville, CA, Konocti Harbor Resort & Spa - Amphitheatre - buy tickets
Sunday, October 5th, Saratoga, CA, The Mountain Winery - buy tickets
Monday, May 19th
Recent picture of Alison and Robert in Düsseldorf with some fans from http://www.alisonkrauss.
de/
There's a been various reports that Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones and
Jason Bonham may be carrying on without Robert Plant. One singer
who's been mention but isn't taking part in it is White Stripes singer Jack
White. Nothing confirmed about whether or not any touring is planned.
Everyone is jumping the gun on this.
Jason Bonham may be carrying on without Robert Plant. One singer
who's been mention but isn't taking part in it is White Stripes singer Jack
White. Nothing confirmed about whether or not any touring is planned.
Everyone is jumping the gun on this.
| Jack White |
There's another Led Zeppelin reissue that'll be coming out on
November 4th. This will be a limited edition box set that is being
called the "Definitive Collection Mini LP Replica" which will feature
12 discs. The box set will include all of the studio albums and the
Song Remains the Same. The set will also include the artwork for
all of the covers to In Through the Out Door. You can buy or find
more information on the box set here.
November 4th. This will be a limited edition box set that is being
called the "Definitive Collection Mini LP Replica" which will feature
12 discs. The box set will include all of the studio albums and the
Song Remains the Same. The set will also include the artwork for
all of the covers to In Through the Out Door. You can buy or find
more information on the box set here.
The show airs on the ABC networks in the US. They are nominated under the
category of Musical Event for their performance of Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved
On).
Also I missed this one. Back in October Alison and Robert were interviewed by
Katie Couric on CBS. Which you can watch below.
category of Musical Event for their performance of Gone Gone Gone (Done Moved
On).
Also I missed this one. Back in October Alison and Robert were interviewed by
Katie Couric on CBS. Which you can watch below.
|
