THIS IS A TOTAL MASTERPIECE! First Time Hearing Led Zeppelin - When The Levee Breaks Reaction!

Welcome back, fellow rock enthusiasts! Strap in as we embark on an epic journey with our first-time reaction to "When The Levee Breaks" by Led Zeppelin. Renowned for its powerful blues influence and groundbreaking sound, this track is a staple in the rock and roll hall of fame. Join us as we dive deep into this musical marvel and discover why it's hailed as a total masterpiece by fans and critics alike.
⭐️ WHAT WE DISCOVER IN THIS VIDEO:
Our initial reactions to the thunderous drumming, haunting harmonica, and iconic guitar riffs of "When The Levee Breaks."
Discussing the historical context of the song, its roots in the blues, and how Led Zeppelin transformed it into a rock legend.
Reflecting on the production techniques that make this track stand out, including the innovative recording methods that give it a distinct, powerful sound.
Sharing our thoughts on the song's enduring legacy and its influence on generations of musicians and bands.
🎵 ABOUT LED ZEPPELIN & "WHEN THE LEVEE BREAKS":
Led Zeppelin, one of the most influential rock bands of all time, released "When The Levee Breaks" as the final track on their iconic album "Led Zeppelin IV." Originally a blues number by Kansas Joe McCoy and Memphis Minnie, Zeppelin reimagined it with a heavier, more intense sound, featuring some of the most memorable drum beats ever recorded, which were masterfully executed by John Bonham.
👫 WHO WE ARE:
We're a couple with a passion for music that moves and inspires. Our channel is dedicated to exploring the depth of rock history through first-time reactions, bringing fresh perspectives to classic hits and uncovering the magic that makes each track special.
💬 COMMENT BELOW:
How does "When The Levee Breaks" resonate with you?
What other Led Zeppelin tracks or classic rock masterpieces should we explore next?
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You can find Led Zeppelin - When The Levee Breaks on KZbin at the link below:
• When the Levee Breaks ...
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You can find Led Zeppelin - When The Levee Breaks on Spotify and Apple Music at the links below:
open.spotify.com/track/05f8Hg...
music.apple.com/mx/album/when...
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#ledzeppelin #ledzeppelinreaction #firsttimereaction

[@markhodge7]

Bonham's drumming is so clean and masterful. The legend at his best.

[@jonathanmilo]

His playing magic. People sometimes associate LZ with hedonistic excesses, but Bonham knows how to play to a song with simplicity snd artistry.

[@malcshone4409]

Drums like an earthquake. Guitars and harmonica like a swirling whirlpool. This is more than just recorded music. It’s elemental, primeval sonic ecstasy.

[@frankfroml.a.4104]

" It’s elemental, primeval sonic ecstasy." Woulda never thought of that description for this masterpiece but man, you are absolutely SPOT ON!!

[@malcshone4409]

@@frankfroml.a.4104 Thanks Frank !

[@danmayberry1185]

... and only analog recording could reach those depths.

[@martinquirk7468]

"Hammer of the Gods"

[@vicprovost2561]

Well said, they are musical art at its highest level, period!

[@billtaylor3382]

I'm 65. I have been a fan of the mighty ZEPPELIN since 1969 I was 11 yo and for me All their songs are great!🤩

[@richdiana3663]

Found them in 1970 at 19. They still are untouched as a band.

[@bumperu]

I'm 71. Had my WTF Led moment in 69 at 16.

[@gjamieson1956]

What a way to start the Day Zeppelin's Rock and Roll

[@bobb9541]

I'm 74 and totally agree. One of the greats of our generation.

[@metalmark1214]

The lyrics to this song (written by Memphis Minnie in 1927) are based on The Great Mississippi Flood of 1927. Still more great Zeppelin songs for you to discover.

[@markhodge7]

So many more

[@jgsrhythm100]

How about they also react to the original ? What makes Zep so great is a wide range of influences from black blues to Celtic folk etc . Exactly what missing with current acts..

[@gavinvl06]

@@jgsrhythm100nobody wants to hear the original

[@jgsrhythm100]

@@gavinvl06 Speak for yourself. In my opinion still only listning to what you grew up with? Quite lame. We expect reactors to explore the familiar going back 40 50 years back, yet majority on here unwilling to do the same. If literally 95% of 60's 70's legendary rock bands were all hugely influenced by black blues (soul & funk) perhaps its you that doesn't get it. Most intersting guitarist today? From Niger Africa. The Hendrix of the Sahara Mdou Mochtar check " Chrismitten". Yeah I don't still only listen to what I did since 6th grade. kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2OWlqqee8uSntUsi=J50fGvEzYDdghbNn

[@jackgilchrist]

​@@gavinvl06Actually, a lot of people happen to love old blues. If everyone were as dismissive of old music as you there would be no Led Zeppelin, no rock as we know it

[@leannlaplante3643]

At 13, I had to wait for this, or any Zeppelin, to play on the radio. No way would my parents let their daughter buy any Led Zeppelin album. Strange and wonderful feelings are evoked when listening to their music.

[@gerardgalgano3752]

It's great to hear someone being so open talking about there life. Thanks, and keep the stories coming.

[@mikeg.4211]

This is not a metaphor. There was a massive flood when this actually happened in the 1920's, which contributed to a large black migration up to Chicago, which is referenced a couple of times. "All last night sat on the levee and moaned" is dark. "I came to hate you" is dark.

[@willblood7082]

ThIs song was recorded at Headley Grange (an abandoned poorhouse in Headley, Hampshire, England). John Bonham's drumming is what really drives this song. He played in the lobby on a Ludwig kit, using two Beyerdynamic M 160 microphones which were hung up a flight of stairs; output from these were passed to a pair of Helios F760 compressor/limiters set aggressively to obtain a breathing effect.A Binson Echorec, a delay effects unit, was also used.

[@lyndoncmp5751]

I once got as far as the front lawn at Headley Grange, to have a look around. Then I heard a dog barking so I retreated to the car. I wonder if it was a black dog?

[@jameskinstle6874]

Are you sure they used the Echorec? I thought it was just the old thumb on the tape flange method (the OG flanger)?

[@willblood7082]

@@jameskinstle6874 Well obviously I wasn’t there but, everything I’ve ever read says yes, a Binson Echorec was used and not just on Bonzo’s drums but also on Page’s 1961 Danelectro 3021/DC59 guitar.

[@frankfroml.a.4104]

The stars really did align when these four masterful musicians came together to form The Mighty Led Zeppelin!!

[@arlin4591]

Robert Plant (vocalist) is the Harmonica player.

[@sicotshit7068]

I love when he plays the harmonica, I wish he played it in more songs then he did, he’s amazing.

[@mja4wp]

Led Zeppelin kicked open a door that the music industry did not know existed....and everyone followed Zep into a whole new realm...

[@1edinnola]

Being from New Orleans, this song pulls at my heart

[@JPMadden]

There is another amazing Led Zeppelin remake of an old song from the 1920s. It's called "In My Time of Dying," a bluesier remake of the gospel song "Jesus Make Up My Dying Bed."

[@sicotshit7068]

Live version at Earls Court is mind blowing, so damn amazing.

[@redpine8665]

It's amazing how aware they were of music from the distant past. I mean Gallows Pole is a song that's been around since at least the 1600's! And they had a go at it and made that into a great song too. Incredible really.

[@TheNewRevolution]

My comment was going to be suggesting "In My Time of Dying". I will like your post instead.👍

[@Lodgerizer]

"In My Time Of Dying" was also the last song Chris Cornell sang before he did what he did...

[@stickman1742]

@@redpine8665 A lot of musicians used old songs. Many blues and folk artists just use traditional music. Zeppelin was just doing some of what those artists did all the time.

[@heinzbucksandcastle2053]

This music is for eternity.

[@nedrini1055]

Best drum sound of any song ever

[@MLawrence2008]

"Cryin' won't help ya, prayin' won't do you no good!" So true. You have to deal with life by your own efforts!

[@patrickquinlan3056]

I have been listening to this song for decades and it always stuns me.

[@deannajones3849]

My granddaughter is 19 and she's very familiar with Led Zeppelin because of me! I gave her all my old albums to listen to on vinyl!

[@Oldschoolnana]

How lucky were we to be around when this was new. Glad it will never die. ✌️🌻🌻

[@bumperu]

One of the greatest musical combinations in history. British lads playing American blues. Wow!!!!

[@dragonmac1234]

Every time I listen to this song I hear John Bonham's powerful beat, and it reminds me he's sadly no longer with us. RIP Bonzo ❤🙏

[@johnlove7224]

The MIGHTY MIGHTY ZEP The best band. Period.

[@DforDelinquent]

This is why you two are currently the best music reactors on KZbin. Well done. This track is absolutely killer.

[@robertpearson8798]

I think that this is my favourite Zeppelin song, I love that Delta Blues sound.

[@jmsmeier1113]

My favorite Zep tune is whichever one is currently playing.

[@lyndoncmp5751]

I would say the "sound" is Led Zeppelin's own sound, not Delta Blues.

[@robertpearson8798]

@@lyndoncmp5751 I just meant that I can hear the Delta Blues influence in it but agree that it’s their own sound that it’s reflected in. I can hear the Blues influence in much of their music, particularly the first album but I feel it most strongly in this cut.

[@lyndoncmp5751]

@@robertpearson8798 I can definitely see the influence yes, and obviously the original song is blues. The sound, however, is all Zeppelin's. None of the old blues acts "sounded" like what we hear in this song, from the guitar to the drumming to the bass to Roberts voice. That's all I meant. Zeppelin had their own sound. Cheers 👍

[@jmsmeier1113]

@@lyndoncmp5751 In the documentary, the song remains the same the band gives American southern blues credit for the inspiration of many of their songs.

[@ami3627]

"Cryin won't help ya, prayin won't do ya no good."🎶

[@lyndoncmp5751]

If only people would actually accept that.

[@dereks1264]

I always find it so enjoyable when youngsters like you two discover how great the music of my youth (I'm 69) was and still is. Keep up the good work - you guys are great.

[@ginao8935]

My favorite Zep song!!😊Gallows Pole should be next.

[@OutOnTheTiles]

Plant was such a great harmonica player along with being an incredible soulful singer. Cheers ✌️

[@DeborahParham-ve1vp]

He still is.

[@tedalfred9516]

Ten years gone is another great Zep tune

[@pompanomark2024]

Guys - Can you imagine growing up listening to this?

[@joenewman6494]

I did saw them in 1974 killer show.

[@BarryOkanagan]

The drums and bassline are out of this world on this one. My favorite song of this album.

[@gilberthdelgadosibaja510]

Greetings from Costa Rica, I am 60 years old and I have not seen a band with as many musical flavors as them, their songs are so varied and their creation is out of this world, hugs

[@nickface55]

Just 4 guys who make this sound, it's more than incredible.

[@TheNewRevolution]

Phil you are correct. The drum sound in this song is legendary. I've read in multiple places that it is the most sampled drum sound in history. There are many...many videos just on the iconic drum sound used in this song.

[@eddavison1961]

If you love blues, then “Since I’ve Been Loving You” is a must!

[@taggart8]

Great shout, I feel dazed and confused 🎸

[@ChuckSchickx]

Pure. Clear. Clean. Strong. Powerful. Soulful.

[@AngeloMarcheschi-vj9em]

The GOATS at work. The pocket Bonham keeps is outstanding

[@rickashworth7304]

Great reaction, guys! Based on The Great Mississippi Flood of 1927, it is a very good blend of Blues and Rock. Did you know there is a cover of this that is organized by "Playing For Change" that is well worth the listen? Led Zeppelin bassist, John Paul Jones, is a feature in this as well as many other artists... enjoy!

[@Bigdave1369]

I was checking the comments to make certain that somebody recommended that cover. I hope they see this and check it out...

[@SaxonsGlory]

So many GREAT songs from Zepp, and this is one of the classics.

[@leannlaplante3643]

In the Light by Led Zeppelin, I believe you both would enjoy that song too.

[@lyndoncmp5751]

Very acquired taste that song. I love it but it took me many listens to really appreciate it.

[@ChrisLegner-qp1yh]

Legendary as this album is, this is the one that made it truly special. A dark, brooding finale that finishes the album perfectly.

[@Eowyn187]

Your thumbnail said it all... imo this def IS the best song they ever did. Also, imo, one of the 10 best Rock songs period. Ever. That harmonica with those drums!! Good God.

[@SG-js2qn]

IMO, there's like 4 songs in the top tier of the Zep collection: "Stairway," "Kashmir," "Immigrant Song," and "When the Levee Breaks." The next tier is still fabulous ("Dazed and Confused," "Babe I'm Gonna Leave You," etc.), but these top four are just incredible.

[@jkbowers56]

I know it's almost a sacrilege, but I'd put "Kashmir" in with the 2nd tier songs, and (since a 3rd tier simply does't even exist for Zeppelin) I'd move either "Ramble On" or "Nobody's Fault But Mine" (the slower Plant-Page acoustic version if that counts) up a notch to replace it. For what it's worth, you could write their song titles on little slips of paper, dump 'em in a hat, draw out four at random, and get a winning set every time.

[@hoochnyc44]

Since I’ve Been Loving You is top 3

[@bparker8195]

They're all top tier. There is no need to categorize their songs. The musicianship is evident throughout the catalog.

[@SG-js2qn]

@@jkbowers56 It's a sacrilege. Don't do it! 😄 I find that I can't very easily rank Beatles songs. I can mainly only group them into "like" and "dislike." Not sure why I feel I can fairly clearly rank Zeppelin songs and not Beatles songs. 🤷‍♂

[@jxchamb]

You forgot Achilles Last Stand and In My Time Of Dying.

[@davidleach4689]

You really need to do heartbreaker, bring it on home , in my time of dying by Led Zeppelin

[@jxchamb]

Heartbreaker is so damn amazing. Love it when Jimmy adds Greensleeves into the solo.

[@ramblerdave1339]

And "Ramble On"!

[@arnoldcox9128]

That rhythm is out of this world 🔥

[@m_v__m_v]

Same album as Stairway to Heaven, Going to California, Black Dog, Rock and Roll, Misty Mountain Hop... insane

[@brendo69rock92]

Best rock album of all time!

[@davidmckenzie420]

Now you must see the amazing international collaboration cover--with JPJ on bass!

[@w.geoffreyspaulding6588]

Playing for Change….

[@TheRealDislikersNotHaters]

One of my all time favourites

[@rowenatulley852]

I suggest Bring It On Home for your next listen . . .

[@tommack9395]

The Great Mississippi Flood of 1927... country blues song by Kansas Joe McCoy and Memphis Minnie - Minnie wrote the lyric. McCoy's National guitar sounds fantastic on the original recording. John's drums are heavy as hell and Page's slide guitar tracks really shine.

[@hawaiifranke7637]

My very first live concert was Led Zeppelin in 1973. It was gorgeous!

[@alicerepooc4475]

Tea For One is another great blues from the Presence Album

[@kevinmorrell4155]

Amazing! You just don’t get music like that today 🔥🔥🔥

[@soundbreak7]

one of the most iconic drum beats of all time

[@fishboy91]

What makes their catalog so great is the fact that no matter what genre a song is in or whether it is loud our soft or electric or acoustic or slow or fast tempo, complex or easy or driven by the drumming or by the melody and his singing...the listener of the song will always have many chances to say during any song..."Wow, that was kind of cool"

[@michaelreeder9931]

John Bonham set up his drums in a stairwell with the microphones at the top to get that echo. They are very creative.

[@jtf2dan]

the hall had ZERO to do with the echo...that was added by a machine.

[@dalmac5978]

@@jtf2dan Actually, all factors contributed.

[@h.w.hilton6819]

They used 4 mics placed at different heights in the stairwell to get that specific ambience for the recording.

[@RushfanUK]

Andy Johns is the guy who set it all up and recorded the drums, he used an echo machine, a binsen to get that sound, contrary to Page’s claims only Johns and Bonham were there.

[@sicotshit7068]

@@jtf2danthe three story entrance did give the great sound, with added microphones, I believe two. Bonham’s style of drumming of a heavy beat, has made this a highly sampled drum beat. Others would definitely need that amazing entrance at Headley Grange, but they still wouldn’t play like Bonham does. Bonham was so excited with the amazing sound it created, like a kid in a candy store.

[@user-qq1uy8qj6l]

Now it's time for You Shook Me. It will blow your mind. Great review. One the best songs from my favorite band.

[@sicotshit7068]

Being on their debut album, it definitely shows what each brings to the band, amazing solos.

[@lyndoncmp5751]

Though it has great playing, it's a pretty mediocre 'song' to be frank. The live version of the other Dixon song on the first album I Can't Quit You Baby from the Royal Albert Hall 1970 is much better.

[@user-qq1uy8qj6l]

I like the vocal and guitar being in "unison". That is the unique touch that makes it great to me.

[@lyndoncmp5751]

@@user-qq1uy8qj6l Yes I agree, that's great. No complaints on the musicianship and playing. I just don't think the 'song' is all that great. Just a standard, even pedestrian, blues song.

[@curtiswilson3569]

The greatest band ever playing arguably the best song ever.

[@ggvno167]

I went to see Led Zeppelin at the Fabulous Forum back in 73. The concert was amazing. What I remember having floor seats and a high pitch ringing in my ears for several days.

[@curleyqlink228]

4 Brits in their 20's ripping the delta blues sound in the 70's. EPIC !!!

[@rxlxviii]

Most critics at the time hated Led Zeppelin. Just goes to show that you should make your own decisions instead of listening to the critics.

[@robertpearson8798]

Similar to Rush, critics weren’t very kind.

[@charliecochran3035]

He played the harmonica through a guitar amp, guving it that otherworldly sound. The harmonica steals the show in this song for me.

[@jameskinstle6874]

It's more about the mic he used than the amp bro.

[@kdbadk]

Big thanks to Ed Zeppelin, for a well curated list !!!

[@argonwheatbelly637]

I love playing this as a drum cover.

[@mja4wp]

You Shook Me; Since Ive Been Loving You; The Lemon Song; StairWay To Heaven; No Quarter; Song Remains The Same. Any of these are top tier....and for a master class in Concerts....Led Zeppelin LIVE at Madison Square Garden 1973 is the standard. Have at it and enjoy the ride. You're just popping the cork here with When The Levee Breaks. Cheers!

[@deannajones3849]

One of my favorites!

[@lawrencesampson3996]

Drum intro is the most sampled piece of music in history

[@Kavala76]

If you guys like blues you should listen to "I'm Gonna Crawl". One of Led Zep's best blues songs and too often overlooked!

[@stevedahlberg8680]

I'm so glad you guys decided to react to this. That was wonderful. The whole thing is just a tour de force. Back in the day it was on the radio all the time so it was easy to under appreciate it unless a bit later you became a musician and you're like wow what the hell were they all doing? That's incredible. And really in the end it's just the Synergy of it and how tight they were and the proof is in the pudding because their live shows were spectacular as well. But anyway I'm so glad you reacted to this.

[@guillermojuanpastorausejo7597]

Led Zepellin Super Grupo perteneciente a la era de los genios. No una,si no Muchas Grandes canciones

[@ErickSowder]

That beat has been sampled many times with my favorite being Beasty Boys Rhyming and stealing . Cheers.

[@gablen23]

My favourite song from this album, and I can say there are some great ones!

[@yenlard6683]

Great song that they could never duplicate in a live setting. 🤔

[@jasonbarlow8263]

Robert Plant killing it on the harmonica

[@mikeconway9849]

Great reaction, Sam and Phil! Gallows Pole is another great Zep song.

[@dannywachowski5880]

A massive dose of flange effect in this iconic cover, awesome!

[@stevetreloar3129]

Yup, ONE of their best!

[@BV-nx6vq]

One of THE most sampled drum grooves in history 👍

[@stevetreloar3129]

This is a song you will be listening to for yeeeers!

[@jonathanmilo]

Because of the reverb effect on the drums, it never worked as a live song. They tried a couple times, but it never captured the majesty of this recording. Absolute magic!

[@362chop]

Memories of sitting in the back seat convertible buzzed out of my mind and listening to THIS.

[@audiotsunite]

In The Light!

[@Zekespeaks]

They did an even better version of this with a harmonica in it. Great stuff!

[@vicprovost2561]

Masterpiece is right, they do the blues like no one else. Another great song on a n album full of them For a incredible deep cut no one reacts to from the same, 4th album, do Four Sticks, another great and different Led Zeppelin tune for the ages. Enjoy! 🎵🎸🎤🎶

[@joshuadeshaies7266]

One of the best from the 🐐's !!¡

[@Nolnocnaes]

Sounds like a steam engine train chuggin' along with that hi-hat...simply awesome.

[@robertscotton9339]

I was at Jazz Fest right after Katrina. A band called Galactica did a phenomenal instrumental cover of this for their encore. It was absolutely surreal and epic.

[@DogmeatDied989]

Levee Breaks, Ramble On, and Over the Hills are my favorites!

[@oakleysmithmusic]

Legendary singer, legendary guitarist , legendary drummer. Jimmy Paige was great with earier bands. To me this puts him on another level. Having Said that it took the whole band with everyone's talent to be totally awesome .

[@Alan-lv9rw]

Crazy harmonica.

[@trendydelquendy]

I started playing drums because of this song.

[@user-ue9js1tz9v]

Truly a Masterpiece. So rich and layered. Led Zeppelin with that kind of composition and playing paved the way for a very modern style of music in which you find multiple layers and rythms creating tension, in a minimalist, ethereal ( whilst heavy! ) and abstract fashion. I would recommand to listen to No Quarter When we listen to the music of groups like Cocteau Twins Dead Can Dance Siouxsie and the Banshees Joy Division P.J. Harvey we can find similarities. I invite you to discover from Cocteau Twins: -Fifty fifty Clown ( BBC Sessions ) - Road, River and Rail - Know Who You Are - Violaine Dead Can Dance: - Sanvean - Cantara - Kiko - The Invocation Siouxsie and the Banshees: - Sin in my Heart ( Live at the Royal Albert Hall ) - Night Shift - We Hunger - Umbrella Joy Division: - Isolation - Incubation - She’s Lost Control - Novelty P. J. Harvey: - The Whores Hustle and the Hustlers Whore - Meet ze Monsta ( see on KZbin BritPop Now ) - Kamikaze Want to hear something ahead of its time? The Stooges: - Down on the Street - Fun House - Dirt Happy listening! -

[@Eowyn187]

4:43 Those expressions!!! No words necessary to know how much y'all were loving this. 🥂

[@RonaldRon-se4db]

Metal joe you're correct. Memphis Minnie was involved with this tune but Kansas Joe McCoy's flavor is stamped on this tune and his delta blues are rooted in the very depths of the "soul" in the song. BUT, If Zeppelin had not brought this mystical feeling, blues -soul-rock version back to us, would Memphis Minnie and Kansas Joe have ever been heard of again? I'm certain I would not ever have known of them. Their totally awesome influence on what so many of us get to hear and to love for the rest of our lives may have been void of these wonders were it not for LZ and their love of blues and specifically "Delta Blues"!!! Thank you guys one and all....

[@chuckwhite3176]

Blues rock at its best.

[@g0019c]

This has blues all over it 😮😮

[@dsgp7835]

There was a lot of great great music in the late sixties and early seventies but when Led Zeppelin appeared on the scene there was absolutely nothing like them, not even close, they stunned everyone. Your album collection was just not complete unless you had their latest release as soon as it came out. It was an exciting time to be a teenager, I was there.

[@user-zu1kk3nt4r]

Hey hey what can I do is great song

[@willswomble7274]

Astonishing. amazing, life-changing from release on 081171, recorded Headley Grange, Headley, Hampshire, UK Dec. 1970, and ever since. Real talent, real emotion, NO 21C computer fakery!

[@thesolarengineer]

You both deserve 4x in sunscribers. Love, love LOVE that you give real and meaningful reactions and you enage each other. Mad love 👍👍👍

[@yozaseig3870]

Hypnotic trance music