Who Is Bigger: The Rolling Stones or Led Zeppelin?
This question is more intriguing than it first appears. Both bands have an indelible place in rock and roll history, with songs that have resonated with multiple generations of fans and bands that shaped our expectations of rock bands' behavior and attitude. To answer this question effectively, we must look at various factors including record sales, star power, influence, and cultural legacy.
Sales and Popularity
The debate over who is bigger often focuses on record sales and concert attendance. Led Zeppelin, with their extensive tours and countless sold-out shows, undoubtedly hold a prominent spot. They are also more frequently featured on radio stations and have a larger catalog of hits. In terms of retail, it's not uncommon to see more Led Zeppelin shirts in public than Rolling Stones shirts, indicating their ongoing influence and popularity.
Star Power and Cultural Impact
When it comes to star power and cultural impact, The Rolling Stones are often associated with the swinging 60s and their legendary rivalry with the Beatles. This legacy casts an immense shadow over rock and roll history, giving the Stones a significant boost in popularity and influence. However, Led Zeppelin, while being highly respected in hard rock and metal circles, found their peak audience in the 70s. By the time they rose to fame, popular music was already fragmenting into distinct audiences. The Stones, on the other hand, reached across different genres and audience demographics, blurring the lines between pop, rock, and blues.
Influence and Legacy
This is where The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin diverge significantly. While both bands were influential, Led Zeppelin can be credited with instigating a shift in rock music. Their sound and style paved the way for hard rock and heavy metal, influencing generations of musicians. The guitar and drum sound from Led Zeppelin records sound timeless—guitars became heavier and more distorted, and drumming more pounding and aggressive. Many modern aspiring guitarists and drummers still learn from iconic Led Zeppelin songs like 'Stairway to Heaven' and John Bonham's parts.
Furthermore, many metal singers trace their vocal style and sound influence to Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin. This cultural shift marked a new phase in rock music, rather than simply defining an era. While The Rolling Stones had a profound impact on the pop-rock landscape, Led Zeppelin helped pave the way for hard rock and heavy metal to become dominant genres.
Based on these factors, I would argue that Led Zeppelin's influence and legacy in shaping the course of rock music make them the 'bigger' band. However, it's essential to recognize that this is a subjective debate, and opinions vary widely among music fans.
Despite the ongoing debate, both bands remain revered and influential in their respective eras and continue to hold a special place in the hearts of many rock music enthusiasts.