Robert Plant
- Occupation:
- Musician
- Date of Birth:
- 20 August 1948
- Sex:
- Male
- Height:
- 1.85
Introduction:
Robert Plant, born on August 20, 1948, in West Bromwich, England, is a renowned British singer-songwriter best known as the lead vocalist of the iconic rock band Led Zeppelin. Celebrated for his powerful vocal range and dynamic stage presence, Plant has significantly influenced rock music and continues to captivate audiences with his diverse musical pursuits.
Early Life and Background:
Robert Anthony Plant was born to Robert C. Plant, a civil engineer, and Annie Celia (née Cain) Plant. He was raised in Halesowen, Worcestershire, where he developed an early passion for blues and rock music. Plant attended King Edward VI Grammar School for Boys in Stourbridge but left to immerse himself in the burgeoning blues scene of the English Midlands. Before fully committing to music, he briefly trained as a chartered accountant and held various jobs, including working for the construction company Wimpey and at Woolworths.
Music Career:
Led Zeppelin Era (1968–1980)
In 1968, while performing with the band Hobbstweedle, Plant was approached by guitarist Jimmy Page, who was seeking a lead vocalist for his new project following the dissolution of The Yardbirds. Plant recommended drummer John Bonham, and along with bassist John Paul Jones, they formed a group initially known as the New Yardbirds, soon rebranded as Led Zeppelin.
Led Zeppelin's self-titled debut album was released in 1969, reaching number six on the UK charts. The band achieved monumental success with subsequent albums, many of which topped charts worldwide. Plant contributed significantly to the band's songwriting, starting with "Led Zeppelin II" in 1969. Tragically, in 1980, the band disbanded following Bonham's death.
Solo Ventures and Collaborations
Plant launched his solo career with the album "Pictures at Eleven" in 1982, followed by "The Principle of Moments" in 1983. In 1984, he formed The Honeydrippers with Jimmy Page and Jeff Beck, achieving hits with covers like "Sea of Love" and "Rockin' at Midnight." Plant and Page reunited in 1995 for the album "No Quarter" and toured extensively. Their collaboration continued with the release of "Walking into Clarksdale" in 1998.
Between 2007 and 2008, Plant collaborated with bluegrass singer Alison Krauss, resulting in the critically acclaimed album "Raising Sand," which won multiple Grammy Awards. They reunited in 2021 to release "Raise the Roof," further showcasing Plant's versatility and willingness to explore different musical genres.
Recent Projects
In 2019, Plant formed the acoustic band Saving Grace, performing a mix of folk, blues, and traditional tunes. The band toured the UK and Europe, with performances continuing into 2024. Notably, in October 2024, Plant and Saving Grace held an impromptu performance at a restaurant in Bari, Italy, delighting fans with their spontaneous rendition of "Goodnight."
Plant married Maureen Wilson in 1968, and the couple had three children: Carmen Jane, Karac Pendragon, and Logan Romero. Tragically, their son Karac died at the age of five in 1977 due to a stomach illness, a loss that deeply affected Plant and inspired the Led Zeppelin song "All My Love." The couple divorced in 1983. Plant also has a son, Jesse Lee, with Maureen's sister, Shirley Wilson.
A lifelong supporter of Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club, Plant was appointed as the club's third vice president in 2009. In 2024, he mourned the passing of Steve Plant, a significant figure in the club's history, expressing his condolences publicly.
Legacy and Influence:
Robert Plant's contributions to rock music are profound. As the frontman of Led Zeppelin, he helped shape the sound of the 1970s, influencing countless artists across various genres. His solo work and collaborations demonstrate a relentless pursuit of musical exploration, cementing his status as a versatile and enduring figure in the music industry.
Recent Activities:
As of 2025, Plant continues to engage in diverse musical projects. He remains active with Saving Grace, captivating audiences with intimate performances that blend various musical traditions. Additionally, the documentary "Becoming Led Zeppelin," which features Plant and his former bandmates, is set to premiere in IMAX on February 5, 2025, offering fans an in-depth look at the band's early years.
Robert Plant's enduring passion for music and his ability to reinvent himself artistically ensure his continued relevance and admiration in the ever-evolving landscape of popular music.
- Occupation:
- Musician
- Date of Birth:
- 20 August 1948
- Sex:
- Male
- Height:
- 1.85