The "Black Country" was an area in England known for its industrial presence; a lot of factories and coal mines both of which covered the area in black pollution, soot, and coal dust. Both Robert and Bonzo came from this area, and in regards to this song, the "Black Country Woman" would be Robert's wife. Obviously a lyrical recounting of some argument between them with the line "that's alright, I know your sister too" being a bit of rude (to say the least) retort since his affair with his sister in law has been previously discussed. It's working title was "Never Ending Doubting Woman Blues" - but really, if your husband was Robert Plant, I'd say some suspicion was warranted lol! This song was originally intended for the Houses of the Holy album. They recorded part of it outside in the garden of Mick Jagger's house, Stargroves, which they'd rented to rehearse and record in so that's why you hear the airplane and a bit of chatter with the engineer who says he needs to get the plane off the tape. Jonesy would play an upright bass when they performed this in concert; it would usually segue directly into Bron Y Aur Stomp. As far as Bonzo's drums, Jimmy and the engineers were masterful at mic'ing his kit; Jimmy learned as a session musician that "distance = depth" so he would have mics placed around and above (depending on what was necessary) as well as several feet away to catch the room ambiance and echo. In my opinion, Jimmy doesn't get enough credit for his production/mixing skills.

@steverickenbacher7110

Жыл бұрын

I believe that Page was a better sound engineer than most back in the day. The first album was all him telling Glyn Johns what to do, especially as far as recording the drums went.

@henriettaskolnick4445

Жыл бұрын

@@steverickenbacher7110 I'll not take anything away from Glyn Johns since you don't get to work with heavyweights without some skill but, yes, he and Jimmy butted heads a bit. For example, I believe Glyn was the engineer who didn't think backward echo would work until Jimmy proved him wrong, having already used backward echo successfully with The Yardbirds.

@steverickenbacher7110

Жыл бұрын

@@henriettaskolnick4445 Listen to the record. The producer obviously won. There were not a ton of engineers to choose from back then. "Reputation" meant more than it should have as a result. That being said, Rudy Van Gelder Glyn Johns was not!

@johnwalsh9144

Жыл бұрын

I always took this as a song to the sister (Older?) that he had the affair with, and later on a child with after his divorce in '83'. She may also be the woman who gave him the relationship > Career ultimatum, which spawned song after song in the early days (Ten Years Gone as an example). I heard an interview once that he was with other famous musicians, and on their way back from somewhere, they stopped into a well known club and caught her there fraternizing while she was still with him! ("Hey, Hey, What Can I do" ?)

@henriettaskolnick4445

Жыл бұрын

@@johnwalsh9144 Robert's former wife Maureen, is the older sister being born in 1948 to Shirley's 1950. Shirley may or may not have been the inspiration for Ten Years Gone but she definitely is for What Is and What Should Never Be. To be honest, I've always had the gut feeling this song was about his wife, but looking at it from a different perspective, I can see how it could be about his sister in law, just was well. Either way "I know your sister too" is a messed up lyric lol. As far as HHWCID, I've never felt, read, or heard anything about it being about someone specific to Robert.

I saw Robert Plant with Alison Krauss about 3 weeks ago. He still has swagger. And Alison is wonderful as always.

Robert's reference to "I know your sister too" was a sly reference to Robert's sister in law, with whom Robert had an affair, and later after his divorce, had a child. The other Zep song that referenced this relationship was What Is And What Should Never Be.

I love the line "But that's alright, I know your sisters, too", lifted straight out of the blues songbook and, true to that tradition, Robert Plant has had children with both his ex-wife and her sister and, reportedly, they all get along great to this day.

When I first listened to this entire album in one sitting as a kid, this is the song that stuck out the most. I guess because the style of this song was so unique, and I never heard anything like it...

About 1/2 way through, Che jumped in the sauce again! Love it!

This was recorded OUTSIDE in the yard of Mick Jagger's house...that's why the drums sound different and that was an actual plane flying overhead which the engineer wants to take out and you hear Robert Plant say "Nah, keep it in"

@johndrx165

Жыл бұрын

This is the one! I thought it was by the Seaside.

@dannywachowski5880

Жыл бұрын

I thought all of that album was recorded at Headley Grange

@juliemanarin4127

Жыл бұрын

@danwachowski5880 I think the mobile studio was parked outside of the mansion.

@scottjones7005

Жыл бұрын

The vocals and the guitar are outside, BONZO and JPJ overdubbed later.👍

@bernardfitzsimons4275

7 ай бұрын

Yes I read it was recorded in one take outside on The Rolling Stones mobile recording studio

When I first got this album about 45 years ago I was amazed at how good it was. It became my favorite record right then and there and it still is. With all the great bands with epic albums over the years it's hard to pick your favorite all time album but this one to me has never been matched. It would take today's bands about 20 years to come up with enough quality material to come close to this album. If they could even get close would be a miracle. It was just a different time for music because so many different types of bands were hitting it out of the park in those days. WTF happened with today's music? They aren't worthy to go out and fetch lunch for Led Zeppelin!

@olly8

Жыл бұрын

We lived in the Era of Exploration. We didn't know where we were going, but we weren't gonna follow the Standards set. And MUSIC is the best representation of Our time. It's being rediscovered. IT was the Times and we got this part right👍🏻

"There's no telling what else is to come." Yes, that explains Zep, and that explains this album in a nutshell. I call this their White Album. Like the Beatles' album, it's a smorgasbord of various songs, genres and styles. This is why it's often earmarked by many Zep fans as their favorite album. As for Bonzo, the reason he sounded so different is because he played different. Zep was the only band that wanted him because all the other bands complained he played to loud. Case in point, that bass drum coming in here. Great stuff.

I like the Charlie Parker shirt. Bird lives!

Always liked this track. It is deep fried in down home blues and a tinge of country, spiced up with a rock groove, and yet still has a hint of English folk to it. Bonzo's restraint is on display here, with no real drum fills and only a couple of well-placed cymbal crashes. I'm also a fan of bands that "let the tape roll" and capture some of the chatter and ambience of the moment, which Zep did a few times. It makes it feel like we're just sitting in Mick's garden with them.

You guys gotta find a way to take this show on the road. I'd buy a ticket!

Jimmy Page was brilliant with his production guys! He did stuff no one had done before. Making cuts in amps to get a different sound! Tracking over! He was brilliant!

@juliemanarin4127

Жыл бұрын

He sure is!

@fuchsiaswing8545

Жыл бұрын

Jimmy was the creative driving force of Led Zeppelin.

I love how they would incorporate drums into acoustic tracks. Most other bands would settle for some light percussion or none at all.

When asked about drum brushes, Bonham replied, ""Brushes..? Nah. Hit ’em as hard as you can." Typical Bonham, LOL. Another fine reaction, gentlemen.

Danced to led zeppelin so many times most times all by myself. They just got a groove that makes your body move!!!!! Love it thank you🎼🎶🎸✌️

I like the dancing brothers Biggie and Bird on your shirts... Looks like they were grooving too...

So many bands have to find their sound and go with it where Zep just did their thing and whatever came out the processor was what you got. no limitations is to me the key to their greatness

Don't know if anyone mentioned it yet but if I remember correctly, when you pulled out the inner sleeve of the album the windows of the building went from the lettering PHYSICAL GRAFFITI to famous people like Neil Armstrong.

Wow! I’m rediscovering some old tracks I used to LOVE, thru you guys! Peace

Sick Again is sick. When they were here in '75 I remember RP mentioning Jimmy didn't feel so great before they played it. Even though it's about LA queens, ie young groupies.

Underrated greatness 🙌

John was very adamant about using just 2 microphones placed at specific locations. He controls the percussion his way. Hell Yeah

Speaking of Black Country, you should review some ‘Black Country Communion’. Loving your reviews of the Mighty Zep too.

I have requested " hello little school girl" by johnny lang numerous times to other reacters but NO ONE has done it... I dont know if the song just hasnt been heard by enough ppl to warrant the listen or what but i KNOW its a good song and a lot of ppl would enjoy it if given the chance.. its an old blues song cover by many .... plz give it a listen an react to it....

@johnkayak5488

Жыл бұрын

The YARDBIRDS do a version of Hello Little Schoolgirl (1964)

Achilles last stand the mother of all rock jams it’ll such a soul on fire yeah boy

It's like sitting on the front porch in the rocking chair

Just t clarify ,It's about a woman from the Black Country in England, Not a black woman from the country.Its called the Black Country because of all the industry in the area that used coal & oil for its manufacturing process & caused all the area to be covered in soot & smoke 👍

Have always loved Acoustic Zep, for 50+ years!!! And Guys love your reactions, you know some Shit!!.. I really should subscribe to your channel, such good vibes!!!!.. X

Thanks fellas for reintroducing to this album. As always great reaction fellas. Much appreciated 🙏 ❤

@AirplayBeats

Жыл бұрын

Our pleasure!

This song was recorded outside in the garden with the rolling stones mobile recording studio! That's why you hear a plane flying over at the beginning of the song! Bonzo wasn't there in the beginning of the recording when he got there he just joined in with the band!

What a selection of songs today guys. Hitting it out of the park imo

Nice work gentlemen. Way to go through the evolution.

Yes

Plant being Plant on this one! Fun to hear the dialog in the beginning like a live recording. Probably recorded it in one take.

I've been trying lately to hear associations between this albums' songs and the songs on the previous albums from the years these songs were recorded. I don't think I've come up with much, and I think that may be because Zep created such a variety of musical styles in their work after their first two albums that everything just sounds like Zep. Anyway, I made these lists so I thought I'd post them in case anyone else is interested. Track Title Past Assoc Album Rec Year 1 Custard Pie 1974 2 The Rover Houses of the Holy 1972 3 In My Time of Dying 1974 4 Houses of the Holy Houses of the Holy 1972 5 Trampled Under Foot 1974 6 Kashmir 1974 7 In the Light 1974 8 Bron-Yr-Aur Led Zeppelin III 1970 9 Down by the Seaside Led Zeppelin IV 1971 10 Ten Years Gone 1974 11 Night Flight Led Zeppelin IV 1971 12 The Wanton Song 1974 13 Boogie with Stu Led Zeppelin IV 1971 14 Black Country Woman Houses of the Holy 1972 15 Sick Again 1974 Chronological order: Track Title Past Assoc Album Rec Year 8 Bron-Yr-Aur Led Zeppelin III 1970 9 Down by the Seaside Led Zeppelin IV 1971 11 Night Flight Led Zeppelin IV 1971 13 Boogie with Stu Led Zeppelin IV 1971 2 The Rover Houses of the Holy 1972 4 Houses of the Holy Houses of the Holy 1972 14 Black Country Woman Houses of the Holy 1972 1 Custard Pie Physical Graffiti 1974 3 In My Time of Dying Physical Graffiti 1974 5 Trampled Under Foot Physical Graffiti 1974 6 Kashmir Physical Graffiti 1974 7 In the Light Physical Graffiti 1974 10 Ten Years Gone Physical Graffiti 1974 12 The Wanton Song Physical Graffiti 1974 15 Sick Again Physical Graffiti 1974

They always had a bluesy influence going back to to their first 2 albums. Love it!

@fuchsiaswing8545

Жыл бұрын

Bluesy but also distinguishably English folk, hence their love for contemporary bands like Fairport Convention and The Incredible Strong Band. Jimmy was always in tune with the folk-rock and progressive folk coming out of the UK in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Loved when they added a mandolin to a track. Always loved that instrument, though the violin ranks high with me too.

Also because Bonham hits the drums harder than everyone else, and has a deeper groove than most people.

Hey you guys should really check out the sixteen and a half minute live version of no quarter from msg 1973, oh yeah they did a 28minute version of dazed and confused at that show

Some songs just put images in your head. I don't think of guys with beers in their face here, but sunshine and greenery. They recorded it outside, and I'm so glad they very entertainingly let that plane get a cameo (though, with Zeppelin's history, it likely didn't get a songwriting royalty cut, har har). But I just feel warm from the sunshine as I imagine the lads out in a sort of meadow in summertime, perhaps, on stools like in concert, maybe some smoke in the air, singin' and playin'.

They were playing outside on the lawn while Bonzo was playing inside the house. When he collides with them its almost cosmic. 😄

Having grown up in the 60's and 70's and discovering Led Zeppelin (one of my all time favorites) as well all the other great rock bands of that era in real time, I'm really enjoying your journey of discovery and your reactions and appreciation for how good they really were. You've made me rediscover them and have brought back so many good memories. For that, I'm grateful to both of you. Well done!

La & Chi, can’t wait till you guys get to Presence! That’s a pretty heavy album!

My favorite zeppelin acoustic song. It's so bluesy

Getting different sounds without going over the top with or constantly changing the kit was a point of pride for both Bonham and Page. They explored with mic and kit placement in all kinds of creative ways. I think this one was done outside.

There is a guy here on youtube his channel is" Kick it like Bonham" He plays vintage drum kits just like what Bonham played. He nails the time signatures and the tone. Closest to Bonham I have ever heard.

That open blues tuning D G D G B D is my favourite. This song is so good with the mandolin as well. Love your work gentlemen.

I am going to be really sad when you hit the end of Led Zeppelin. Just like I was when we all hit the end of Led Zeppelin! side sad note: I never saw them in concert, but I had tickets to see them when JB died. Got a refund when they cancelled the tour, but the money didn't matter, would have given anything to see them even once.

@deborahcornell171

Жыл бұрын

@jimp4666 I was fortunate to see them 3 times...in 1970, '75 & '77...sort of spaced throughout their time together. They were so damn good. When I read comments like yours it always makes me wish for a time machine. Not only to revisit those concerts but to whisk you along too. I really wish you could've seen them. Their live shows are legendary for good reason.💙☮💫

@jimp4666

Жыл бұрын

@@deborahcornell171 Thanks Deborah, I'm here for the whisking, whenever you're ready to go!

This is one of my favorites from this album, l pretty sure you're going to love it too🤟😉

the drums on this are low key INSANE!

Just MaGic!

You guys consistently provide great insight for a non-musician

The "Black country" is England's version of our WV, KY "coal country."

One of my favorites.

Man, there are a couple on the next album (Presence) I can't wait for you guys to hear. It's got me checking back frequently to see if you are on it yet. Such a trip to see people jamming to all the music I grew up with for the first time. I like your breakdowns a lot.

2:35 Mr Pocket came in on the one and beat us all around the head! 5:23 Plant's harp and vocalised homage to Sonny Boy Williamson I & II🙃

I've been waiting on this one 😊

I don't think Folks Really Appreciated this LP,but there's No Close to OK Songs On It!!!But They All AWESOME,Just Like U 2 Bros!

Bonzo hits them hard and they have a big, hollow old school sound. Best rock drummer in my book!

YES! It’s a dance track!

Jimmy resurrected this song on a "The Firm" album. I can't recall its name.

They are just better than the rest of the bands from their time

Hey hey Mamma. Love it. Well that’s alright I know your sister’s too❤❤❤

Omg

Fun rock fact The harmonica was played by mick Jagger. The song was recorded in the garden at stargroves in 1973 during the Houses sessions. In the first harmonica solo you hear Robert saying “Go Mick, blow”

@deanscott8977

Жыл бұрын

I don't think that is true. Never heard that anywhere, ever.

@darrylbennett4297

Жыл бұрын

@@deanscott8977 I read it as part of the liner notes of the 2 disc remastered box set released in 1993 (?) that accompanied the 4 disc set that was released in 1990. I’m not creative enough to have come up with that. That’s also the same year that Jimmy Page did Scarlet with the stones during the goats head soup era.

Jammin ,thanx guys

Gotta do Black Sabbath - sabbath bloody sabbath

The Black Country is a part of I think Wales or England industry.

@Escapee5931

Жыл бұрын

England - an area north & west of Birmingham.

Plant feeds off of Bonzo’s bass drum..he says it drives him

Lol you gotta know gentlemen Zep is taking you for a ride ....

Interesting thing about the "I know your sisters too" line, Robert Plant impregnated his ex-wife's sister about 7 years (1990-91) after divorcing his ex in 1983. And the song "What is and Should Never be" is believed to be about Plant thinking of the possibility of having sex with his wife's sister (1969). So there's that.

I heard one producer joke that all he had to do was hang one mic above Bonzo's drums because he was so loud.

sick again is where its at

Bad jam.

Get the Led out!

BONHAM on this.

How To Make An Entrance by John Bonham

😎👍

Physical graffiti Every song has a different genre that's what's so good about this album

My only complaint with Led Zeppelin is that when I would try to put together a greatest hits Cassette ( 120 min ) back in the day was what songs do you leave out.

@craigmeek3363

Жыл бұрын

Ain't that the truth! LOL

While you tap your feet and drink a nice cold glass of iced tea

Hahaha. About 3 minutes in you guys start grooving and it looks like the dudes on your shirts are bouncing to the groove as well.

@user-jn9fb5rn2c

Жыл бұрын

Especially Notorious BIG

@AirplayBeats

Жыл бұрын

😂😂

Definitely sounds like something the stones would do 😏

@actuariallurker9650

Жыл бұрын

It was recorded in the backyard of Mick Jagger's house! That's why you hear the airplane flying overhead and Plant saying to keep it in and why Bonham's drums have a different vibe since it was recorded outside

@melvinwomack3717

Жыл бұрын

@@actuariallurker9650 Woooow 😁 coowell

Awww… you cut off the end! Recorded outside and you can hear an airplane going by…

To Pagey's credit...he always pushed the Drums up front...ALWAYS!!!!!!!!! BRONZO... NOTHING MORE TO SAY....

I think it was 7

More jazz mic'ing

People saying Led Zeppelin is the best band of all time or Bonzo the best drummer are just ridiculous

@fuchsiaswing8545

Жыл бұрын

I love Zeppelin, but their fan base is delusional and pretty limited (in terms of musical palette).

@gingerbaker_toad696

Жыл бұрын

@@fuchsiaswing8545 i do like their stuff as well, but that disproportional hype just kills my vibe and i just dont see/hear/feel it like that at all

Seems to me a religious song and a different perspective of the second coming and all that. Zep members dug deep

Album filler track. But it's Zep, so it's quality stuff. Not memorable, but you can hear the quality when listening to it.

prolly asked this a mil times but why does he refer to songs as records? forgive my ignorance pls

Sick again is my favorite. and least favorite. It's my least fav. because it's the last song on the album. My fav. because i get to play the album over again.

bonzo played to loud to record in the same room as the rest of the band. 24 inch sticks being played by a masonry dude with anger problems makes them LOUD. thanks guys

Great band. Horrible lead singer. I wish Jimmy could sing or they had gotten someone else. I have all of their records on vinyl. I've seen them live.