Robert Plant’s voice has resonated through decades of rock history, and he’s never hesitated to share his thoughts, especially about bands like Greta Van Fleet and Aerosmith. Both groups have often drawn comparisons to Led Zeppelin, with Greta Van Fleet representing the newer generation and Aerosmith long considered a contemporary of Zeppelin.
In a recent conversation, Plant didn’t hold back, offering his perspective on Greta Van Fleet’s Zeppelin-like sound while delivering a pointed jab at Steven Tyler and Aerosmith.
Robert Plant on Greta Van Fleet and Aerosmith
Greta Van Fleet’s resemblance to Led Zeppelin has sparked debate among rock fans. Some view it as imitation, while others argue that originality is a rarity in music. Plant clearly sees the parallels. In a 2018 interview, he remarked, “They are Led Zeppelin I,” praising vocalist Josh Kiszka as a “beautiful little singer” but humorously added, “I hate him. He borrowed [his voice] from somebody I know very well.”
Plant also commented on Kiszka’s influences, saying, “At least he’s got a bit of stuff,” and then mockingly rolled his eyes and pretended to snore when mentioning Aerosmith, suggesting he wasn’t overly impressed.
The Ongoing Debate About Greta Van Fleet’s Inspiration
Greta Van Fleet has frequently addressed questions about their musical inspirations, given their undeniable similarities to Led Zeppelin. Despite the comparisons, the band maintains that their influences are diverse, spanning big bands, blues, and classic rock.
While Plant’s playful snoozing reaction to Aerosmith didn’t delve into specifics, it seems to reflect some underlying frustration. Perhaps he feels the weight of the comparisons, especially concerning Aerosmith, which might touch a nerve for the legendary frontman.
Plant’s Thoughts on Legacy Bands
Robert Plant has expressed strong views about legacy bands, a category that includes Aerosmith. Unlike Led Zeppelin, which never officially reunited after their split in 1980, Plant has successfully avoided being classified in this group, despite his band’s monumental influence.
In a 2021 interview with *MOJO*, Plant shared his thoughts on musicians who stay in bands for decades: “Most musicians form a band, then they stay in the band until it’s over—20 years, 30 years, 50 years. It starts to look sadly decrepit… like people hanging onto a life raft.”
Interestingly, there was a time when Jimmy Page considered bringing Steven Tyler in as a lead vocalist for some Led Zeppelin shows in the late 2000s. Tyler declined, perhaps sensing it wasn’t the right “life raft” for him.
Plant’s candidness reveals his deep connection to rock’s legacy and his desire for authenticity in the music scene, making his opinions on these contemporary bands all the more compelling.