Did John Bonham Have a Solo on a Led Zeppelin Album?
John Bonham, the iconic drummer of Led Zeppelin, made substantial contributions to the band beyond his famous drumming. While he is best known for his virtuosic drum solos, there were several instances where Bonham showcased his talents on other instruments, notably the bass and keyboards. This article explores the different types of solos that John Bonham performed on Led Zeppelin albums, emphasizing his diverse musical abilities and the band's creative approach to songwriting.
Drum Solos
John Bonham's drum solos were an integral part of the Led Zeppelin experience. Perhaps the most notable was his extended drum solo in the 1971 album Houses of the Holy. This solo is one of the defining moments of the band's live performances and showcases Bonham's incredible drumming skills. The song features a particularly extended section where Bonham demonstrated his technical proficiency and rhythmic complexity, setting the stage for the band's high-energy live shows.
Bass Solos
While John Bonham's primary role in the band was as the drummer, he occasionally contributed with bass solos, though not as frequently as other band members who had dedicated bass solos. However, his bass playing was not to be underestimated. One of the earliest examples of his bass work is the song Dazed and Confused, which comes from the band's debut album, ssymbolicssymbolicssymbolic . The opening bass notes of this track provided the essential structure, contributing to the song's iconic sound.
Another fine example of Bonham's bass work can be found in The Lemon Song. This song, taken from the Physical Graffiti album, is a testament to Bonham's versatility. The fast-paced, intricate bass line adds a vital layer to the song's intensity, demonstrating Bonham's ability to contribute as a bassist.
Keyboard Solos
John Bonham was also known for his keyboard work, which included accompanying solos. One such example is the extraordinary keyboard solo in the song It's a Mighty Long Time. This track, taken from the In Through the Out Door album, features an extended, powerful organ part that adds a haunting quality to the song. Another notable keyboard performance by Bonham can be heard in the song Tea for Three from the Coda album, where his organ work contributes to the song's unique and distinctive sound.
Posthumous Releases and Live Performances
Even after Bonham's untimely passing in 1980, his talent continued to be celebrated. One posthumous release, Bonzo's Montreux, originally recorded in September 1976 and released as part of the Coda album in 1982, featured an extended solo session that Bonham himself performed. This recording showcases his incredible drumming, and it also highlights his broader musical talents. The album includes over twenty minutes of extended solos, which remain a testament to his vast skills and influence in the music world.
John Bonham's musical legacy extends far beyond his drum solos. His versatile contributions as a bassist and keyboard player demonstrate his passion and dedication to the band. Through these various solos, Bonham left an indelible mark on Led Zeppelin's discography, reinforcing his status as one of the most talented and multifaceted musicians of his generation.