Heartfelt Led Zeppelin Tribute by Lenny Kravitz, Foo Fighters, and Kid Rock

Since Lenny Kravitz turns 60 years old today, we wanted to share this. During the 2012 Kennedy Center Honors, the Foo Fighters, Kid Rock, and Lenny Kravitz delivered a stunning tribute to Led Zeppelin, electrifying the audience with their powerful performances. The event featured the Foo Fighters with Taylor Hawkins on lead vocals and Dave Grohl on drums, performing “Rock and Roll.” Kid Rock followed with a spirited rendition of “Ramble On,” and Lenny Kravitz impressed with his take on “Whole Lotta Love,” even prompting President Obama to sing along. The tribute culminated in an emotional performance of “Stairway to Heaven” by Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart, with Jason Bonham on drums, moving Robert Plant to tears and creating a memorable moment that highlighted the enduring legacy of Led Zeppelin and the profound respect these artists have for the legendary band.

The Kennedy Center Honors is an annual celebration recognizing the lifetime contributions of performing artists to American culture. In 2012, Led Zeppelin was honored, acknowledging their profound impact on rock music and their influence on generations of musicians. The event brought together a diverse group of artists to pay homage to the legendary band.

Foo Fighters’ performance was a high-energy start to the tribute. Taylor Hawkins, known primarily as the band’s drummer, stepped into the role of lead vocalist, channeling the spirit of Robert Plant with his energetic rendition of “Rock and Roll.” Dave Grohl, a lifelong Led Zeppelin fan, honored his drum hero, the late John Bonham, with powerful drumming that captured the essence of the original song.

Kid Rock followed with “Ramble On,” delivering a performance that showcased his versatility as a rocker. Despite being known for his blend of rap and rock, Kid Rock’s tribute to Led Zeppelin was a heartfelt and energetic rendition that honored the band’s legacy. His performance was supported by Kenny Aronoff on drums, adding to the powerful rhythm section.

Lenny Kravitz’s performance of “Whole Lotta Love” was a standout moment of the evening. Known for his distinctive blend of rock, funk, and soul, Kravitz brought his unique style to the Led Zeppelin classic. His performance was enhanced by the presence of guitarist Craig Ross, whose skillful playing complemented Kravitz’s dynamic vocals. The sight of President Obama singing along in the audience added to the memorable nature of the performance.

The tribute reached its emotional peak with Heart’s rendition of “Stairway to Heaven.” Ann and Nancy Wilson, longtime admirers of Led Zeppelin, delivered a performance that was both powerful and poignant. Ann’s vocals were accompanied by a full choir and an orchestra, creating a majestic and moving interpretation of the classic song. Jason Bonham, son of the late John Bonham, played drums, adding a personal and emotional touch to the performance. Robert Plant was visibly moved, and his emotional reaction underscored the deep impact of the tribute.

The Kennedy Center Honors not only celebrated Led Zeppelin’s music but also highlighted the band’s cultural significance. The event included speeches and anecdotes from various artists and dignitaries, including a humorous and heartfelt introduction by actor Jack Black. Black’s speech, filled with admiration and humor, set the tone for the evening and underscored the band’s influence on rock music and popular culture.

Lenny Kravitz, born on May 26, 1964, has had a distinguished career spanning over three decades. Known for his hit songs like “Are You Gonna Go My Way” and “Fly Away,” Kravitz has won multiple Grammy Awards and has been recognized for his contributions to music and fashion. His ability to blend different genres has made him a unique and influential figure in the music industry. His performance at the Kennedy Center Honors was a testament to his versatility and respect for the legends who came before him.

In conclusion, the 2012 Kennedy Center Honors tribute to Led Zeppelin was a remarkable event that celebrated the band’s enduring legacy. Performances by the Foo Fighters, Kid Rock, Lenny Kravitz, and Heart highlighted the band’s influence and showcased the deep respect and admiration these artists have for Led Zeppelin. The event was a powerful reminder of the timelessness of Led Zeppelin’s music and its impact on generations of musicians and fans.