With John Bonham gone the three remaining members of Led Zeppelin retreated into their own worlds. Ever the quiet one, John Paul Jones went back to working behind the scenes, mostly recording soundtracks or producing for other artists, before releasing his first solo album in 1999.

Jimmy Page turned up intermittently, mostly as part of a collaborative effort, even getting back in the studio with Robert Plant on a few occasions. Plant himself would see perhaps the biggest post-Led Zeppelin success, carving out an ever-changing, ever-more impressive solo career.

Led Zeppelin’s light never dimmed, though. Whether through the high-profile 1990s reggae tribute act, Dread Zeppelin, the entire 1980s heavy metal genre, or Jimmy Page’s guitar sound being mimicked the world over, their influence can be felt everywhere. The three remaining members would get together to remind everyone of this on occasion too, most notably at 1985’s Live Aid event.

Never beaten, the remaining Led Zeppelin members have done little to tarnish their old band’s legacy, while remaining dignified elder statesmen of rock today. As their induction into the UK Music Hall Of Fame showed in 2006, even now people are still looking to them for inspiration. Their 2007 reunion concert saw them work the old magic and further enhance their legendary status.

Personalities | Introducing Led Zeppelin
Personalities | Led Zeppelin | After The Break Up (1981) | Key Events