Robert Plant is an English musician, singer, and songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist of the legendary rock band Led Zeppelin. He was born on August 20, 1948, in West Bromwich, England. Plant has been hailed as one of the greatest rock singers of all time, known for his powerful and distinctive vocals that blend blues, folk, and rock influences. After Led Zeppelin disbanded in 1980, Plant launched a successful solo career that has seen him explore a variety of musical genres, from rock to world music to Americana. He has collaborated with numerous artists over the years, including Alison Krauss, Jimmy Page, and Patty Griffin. Plant has won multiple Grammy Awards, and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Led Zeppelin.
Some of Plant’s most iconic songs with Led Zeppelin include “Stairway to Heaven,” “Kashmir,” and “Whole Lotta Love.” As a solo artist, he has released many successful albums, including “Pictures at Eleven,” “The Principle of Moments,” and “Raising Sand” (with Alison Krauss). Plant’s music has continued to influence and inspire generations of musicians, and he remains a beloved figure in the rock and roll world.
1. “Stairway to Heaven”
“Stairway to Heaven” is a legendary rock song performed by Led Zeppelin and written by Robert Plant and Jimmy Page. Released in 1971, it has since become one of the most famous and influential rock songs of all time. The song’s haunting and intricate melody builds to a powerful crescendo, with Plant’s soaring vocals conveying both passion and vulnerability. The lyrics have been subject to much interpretation and speculation, with many considering them to be a commentary on the pursuit of material wealth and the nature of spirituality. “Stairway to Heaven” remains a beloved classic of the rock and roll canon, and a testament to Plant’s incredible vocal talent and songwriting ability.
2. “Whole Lotta Love”
“Whole Lotta Love” is a classic rock song by Robert Plant, famously known as the lead vocalist of Led Zeppelin. Released in 1969, the song’s driving guitar riffs, pounding drums, and Plant’s electrifying vocals make it an iconic track of the era. The lyrics explore themes of lust and desire, with Plant’s passionate vocals driving the message home. The song features a dynamic, unforgettable guitar solo and a famous breakdown section, complete with psychedelic sound effects. “Whole Lotta Love” remains a staple of classic rock radio and a favorite of fans around the world, cementing Plant’s place in rock history.
3. “Kashmir”
“Kashmir” is a haunting and epic song by Robert Plant, the former lead singer of Led Zeppelin. Released in 1975, the song is driven by John Bonham’s thundering drums and John Paul Jones’ intricate orchestration. Plant’s vocals soar over the hypnotic riff, transporting the listener to a mystical, otherworldly place. The song’s lyrics are inspired by Plant’s travels in Morocco and his fascination with the exotic sounds and cultures of the East. “Kashmir” has become a classic rock staple and is widely regarded as one of Led Zeppelin’s greatest achievements. Its timeless appeal lies in its fusion of rock, blues, and Eastern influences, creating a sound that is both familiar and otherworldly.
4. “In the Mood”
“In the Mood” is a song performed by Robert Plant with his side project The Honeydrippers. Released in 1984, it features a blend of rock, blues, and swing influences, with Plant’s signature vocals adding a touch of soulful grit. The song’s driving rhythm and catchy hooks make it an energetic and infectious track that showcases Plant’s versatility as a vocalist. “In the Mood” was a commercial success, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and remains a beloved example of Plant’s ability to incorporate different genres and styles into his music.
5. “Big Log”
“Big Log” is a hit song by Robert Plant, released in 1983 as part of his solo album “The Principle of Moments”. The song features a distinctive opening riff on a synthesizer, followed by Plant’s smooth and soulful vocals. The lyrics describe a journey of self-discovery and introspection, using imagery of a big log as a metaphor for the burdens we carry in life. The song has a relaxed, atmospheric feel, with haunting guitar and keyboard solos that add to the melancholic mood. “Big Log” showcases Plant’s versatility as a musician and songwriter, and remains a beloved classic of the 1980s.
6. “Ship of Fools”
“Ship of Fools” is a haunting and melancholic song by Robert Plant, released in 1988 as part of his solo album “Now and Zen”. The song is characterized by its slow, ethereal melody, with Plant’s emotive vocals lamenting the state of the world and human folly. The lyrics speak of a ship sailing towards a doomed destiny, with passengers who are blind to the impending disaster. The song’s themes of disillusionment, apathy, and ignorance are relevant to this day, and Plant’s passionate delivery makes the message all the more powerful. “Ship of Fools” is a poignant reminder of the human condition, and a masterpiece of Plant’s musical artistry.
7. “Tall Cool One”
“Tall Cool One” is a song performed by Robert Plant, released in 1988. The song is a blend of rock, funk and dance music, with a memorable guitar riff and catchy hooks. Plant’s vocals are as powerful and commanding as ever, conveying a sense of playful confidence and sexual energy. The song features innovative production techniques, such as the use of samples and electronic effects, and a music video that features Plant and various iconic rock and roll images. “Tall Cool One” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart, and remains a fan favorite in Plant’s extensive catalog.
8. “29 Palms”
“29 Palms” is a breezy and upbeat song by Robert Plant, released in 1993 as part of his album “Fate of Nations”. The song features a catchy guitar riff and Plant’s signature vocals, with a touch of country and blues influences. The lyrics are a nostalgic tribute to the small town of Twenty Nine Palms in California, where Plant had spent some time in the past. The song’s upbeat tempo and optimistic lyrics contrast with Plant’s usual somber tone, making it a refreshing change of pace. “29 Palms” showcases Plant’s versatility and ability to experiment with different genres, making it a fan favorite to this day.
9. “Burning Down One Side”
“Burning Down One Side” is a solo hit single by Robert Plant, released in 1982 as part of his album “Pictures at Eleven”. The song features a driving guitar riff and a catchy, upbeat melody that contrasts with its introspective lyrics. The song describes the pain of letting go of a relationship that has gone sour, with Plant’s emotive vocals adding to the sense of longing and regret. The track is also notable for its use of a horn section, which adds to its energetic, jazzy feel. “Burning Down One Side” is a testament to Plant’s ability to evolve and experiment as an artist, and remains a fan favorite to this day.
10. “Little by Little”
“Little by Little” is a song performed by Robert Plant, released in 1985. The song features a blend of rock and blues influences, with a driving rhythm and soulful vocals. Plant’s powerful and emotive performance conveys a sense of longing and vulnerability, with lyrics that explore the ups and downs of a romantic relationship. The song’s catchy chorus and guitar solos showcase Plant’s ability to create memorable and engaging music. “Little by Little” was a hit on the rock charts and remains a standout track in Plant’s solo career, cementing his place as one of the greatest vocalists in rock and roll history.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
