What did Tolkien think of Led Zeppelin?
J.R.R. Tolkien, the renowned author of “The Lord of the Rings,” was a man of many interests and passions. One of his lesser-known hobbies was music, and he had a particular fondness for rock and roll. Among the bands that caught his attention was Led Zeppelin, the iconic British rock group. But what did Tolkien think of this legendary band, and how did their music resonate with the creator of Middle-earth?
Early Admiration for Rock and Roll
Tolkien’s appreciation for rock and roll began in the 1950s, a time when the genre was still in its infancy. He was particularly drawn to the raw energy and emotion of the music, which he believed was a perfect complement to the stories he was writing. In a letter to his son Christopher, Tolkien expressed his admiration for the Rolling Stones, another influential rock band of the era. It was this love for rock and roll that led him to discover Led Zeppelin.
Discovering Led Zeppelin
Led Zeppelin’s self-titled debut album was released in 1969, just as Tolkien was completing his magnum opus, “The Lord of the Rings.” The band’s unique blend of blues, folk, and hard rock immediately captivated Tolkien. He was particularly impressed by their ability to create a sense of wonder and adventure in their music, which he felt was reminiscent of the spirit of his own stories.
Comparisons to Tolkien’s Work
Tolkien’s love for Led Zeppelin’s music was not just superficial; he saw a deep connection between their music and his own literary works. In a letter to his son, Tolkien compared the band’s song “Stairway to Heaven” to the journey of Frodo Baggins in “The Lord of the Rings.” He believed that both the song and the book shared a common theme of heroism, adventure, and the struggle against darkness.
Personal Interactions with the Band
Tolkien’s admiration for Led Zeppelin extended beyond his appreciation of their music. He even had the opportunity to meet the band members during a visit to the United States. In 1971, he attended a concert in California, where he was able to witness the band’s powerful performance firsthand. This personal encounter further solidified his admiration for the band and their music.
Legacy and Influence
Tolkien’s admiration for Led Zeppelin has had a lasting impact on the band’s legacy. In recent years, there has been a growing body of research and scholarship exploring the connections between Tolkien’s work and the music of Led Zeppelin. This has led to a deeper appreciation of both the band and Tolkien’s contributions to the world of fantasy and rock and roll.
Conclusion
What did Tolkien think of Led Zeppelin? The answer is clear: he admired them deeply. Their music inspired him, and he saw a connection between their work and his own. This admiration has left an indelible mark on the legacy of both Tolkien and Led Zeppelin, proving that the power of music can transcend genres and time.
