Led Zeppelin, the iconic rock band known for their electrifying performances and timeless music, embarked on legendary tours that are still talked about today. As one of the most influential rock bands in history, Led Zeppelin’s outrageous tour stories have become the stuff of music legend. From wild antics to unexpected mishaps, here are some of the most insane Led Zeppelin tour stories that you won’t believe.
During their 1973 US tour, Led Zeppelin decided to rent out the entire floor of the Continental Hyatt House in Los Angeles, famously known as the “Riot House.” The band’s eccentric behavior at the hotel included riding motorcycles down the hallways, throwing televisions out of windows, and even catching a shark in the bathtub. These antics quickly turned the hotel into a rock ‘n’ roll playground and solidified Led Zeppelin’s reputation for excess.
One of the most infamous Led Zeppelin tour stories involves the band’s 1975 tour of the United States. After a particularly rowdy night, the band’s private jet, “The Starship,” was grounded due to unpaid fines. The band then threw a party on the airplane while it was parked on the tarmac, resulting in the jet being christened the “Flying Hotel.” This wild event further fueled the band’s rebellious image and solidified their status as rock ‘n’ roll royalty.
Led Zeppelin’s penchant for off-stage antics often led to unforgettable moments during their performances. In 1977, during a show in Oakland, California, lead singer Robert Plant decided to play the entire concert in a wheelchair after injuring his ankle. Despite the setback, Plant delivered an electrifying performance that left fans in awe and solidified his status as a rock legend.
Another wild tour story involves Led Zeppelin’s 1972 North American tour, where the band’s manager, Peter Grant, famously wielded a chainsaw to intimidate concert promoters. Grant’s intimidating tactics were legendary in the music industry and helped protect the band’s interests during their tours. This larger-than-life persona added to Led Zeppelin’s mystique and further fueled their reputation as rock ‘n’ roll rebels.
Led Zeppelin’s hedonistic behavior wasn’t limited to their hotel rooms or private jets – their tour riders were also the stuff of legend. The band famously requested a mud shark be available backstage at one of their concerts, leading to a bizarre and unforgettable moment in rock history. This outlandish request became one of many examples of Led Zeppelin’s larger-than-life persona and set them apart from other bands of the era.
Despite their wild reputation, Led Zeppelin’s musical prowess and stage presence were unmatched. The band’s live performances were a true spectacle, with extended jam sessions and improvisations that captivated audiences around the world. Led Zeppelin’s ability to connect with fans through their live shows cemented their status as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
In conclusion, these insane Led Zeppelin tour stories offer a glimpse into the wild world of rock ‘n’ roll excess and the legendary status of one of the most influential bands in music history. Led Zeppelin’s tours were filled with unforgettable moments that continue to resonate with fans to this day. The band’s legacy lives on through their groundbreaking music and the wild tales of their epic tours that have become a vital part of rock history.