In honor of Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Experience—John Bonham son’s musical tribute to his late, legendary father that is currently touring across the country this month—CULTURE presents this sampling of the legendary rock band’s storied history.
1968
Led Zeppelin is formed in London by Jimmy Page (formerly of The Yardbirds), who then adds Robert Plant, John Bonham and John Paul Jones.
1969
The band releases its eponymous debut album Led Zeppelin, which reaches No. 10 on the Billboard charts. Led Zeppelin II is released later this same year.
1970
Led Zeppelin III is released, and features more acoustic sounds.
1971
“Stairway to Heaven” is conceived alongside Led Zeppelin IV. This album solidifies the band’s position in rock ‘n’ roll history, and defined its 1970s image.
1973
Houses of the Holy attains the No. 1 position on the Billboard charts for two weeks. The band’s concert attendance breaks a previous record held by The Beatles.
1974
The band conceives its own record label, Swan Song, after its five-year contract with Atlantic Records expires. The label sells the band’s music and memorabilia as well as signs artists like Bad Company, Sad Café and Maggie Bell.
1975
Physical Graffiti is released and does so well, the group’s previous albums re-enter the charts. The band performs for five sold-out nights at the famous Earls Court Arena and decides to take a break.
1977
The Days of the Green festival in Oakland becomes the band’s last U.S. performance, as Plant’s five-year-old son Karac dies of an illness while the band is touring. The tour is immediately cancelled.
1979
Bonham collapses on stage during a performance in Nuremburg.
1980
The band rehearses for a U.S. tour. However, Bonham is found dead in his sleep. Led Zeppelin disbands.
1985
A reunion for Live Aid featuring the surviving members becomes a dud.
1994
Plant and Page is formed, excluding fellow Led Zeppelin member Jones. They release No Quarter: Jimmy Page and Robert Plant Unledded. Jones isn’t happy.
1995
Led Zeppelin is inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
2003
Double album How the West Was Won and the Led Zeppelin DVD is released and becomes the best-selling music DVD. Ever.
2006
Led Zeppelin is inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame.
2008
The band receives the “Best Live Act” award at the Mojo Awards 2008.
(Compiled by Andy Cheng)