Geddy Lee’s adolescence was marked by a diverse immersion in the world of Rock and Roll, where his passion extended beyond Progressive Rock to include a profound appreciation for the raw energy of Hard Rock bands, notably Led Zeppelin. As a fortunate witness to Led Zeppelin’s early performances in small Canadian theaters, his admiration for the British group burgeoned over the years.
In the genesis of Rush’s inaugural album, Geddy Lee‘s reverence for Led Zeppelin’s influence is distinctly palpable. Not merely content with his instrumental prowess, Lee delved into the intricacies of bass, chronicling the instrument’s narrative in his “Big Beautiful Book of Bass.” In a 2019 interview with Rolling Stone, he divulged his favorite Led Zeppelin bass track – “What Is and What Should Never Be” from the iconic “Led Zeppelin II” album (1969).
Expressing his admiration, Lee articulated, “There are so many songs I could choose from Zep that feature profound but understated bass playing, but this one is my fave.” He extolled John Paul Jones for his fluidity and multifaceted musical talent, citing the track as a prime example of Jones’ ability to seamlessly navigate between heavy undertones and melodic finesse.
Lee’s fascination with John Paul Jones transcended admiration as he had the opportunity to interview the maestro for his book. Describing Jones as not only a musical hero but also a genuinely amiable individual, Lee’s connection with Led Zeppelin’s bassist goes beyond the musical realm.
The profound impact of witnessing Led Zeppelin live reverberates in Geddy Lee’s narrative. Recounting the experience during the promotion of his autobiography in 2023, Lee described it as life-changing. The ethereal entrance of Jimmy Page, the seismic intensity of the performance, and the palpable energy in the room left an indelible mark on Lee, Alex Lifeson, and John Rutsey. This transformative encounter reshaped their perspective on Rock music, inspiring them to aspire to the same heights as their idols.
As Led Zeppelin concluded their journey in 1980 with the tragic loss of drummer John Bonham, Geddy Lee reflected on the band’s monumental impact. Their estimated global record sales of 200 to 300 million attested to the enduring legacy of a band that not only defined an era but also profoundly influenced the trajectory of musicians like Geddy Lee and his comrades.