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Led Zeppelin Press Conference: Official Audio & Video + Analysis

This past Tuesday saw the three surviving members of Led Zeppelin roll into New York City in support of the forthcoming concert film Celebration Day. The film, which premiered domestically that evening at the famed Ziegfeld Theater, captures the band’s 2007 reunion at London’s O2 Arena.

Select media was invited to attend a screening of the film of at the Museum of Modern Art Tuesday morning after which followed a rare press conference with all three surviving members—singer Robert Plant, guitarist Jimmy Page, bassist/keyboardist John Paul Jones—in addition to drummer Jason Bonham, son of late drummer John Bonham, who had joined the band for the performance.

Since the vast majority of fans couldn’t be there, we’ve posted an extensive audio compilation of the press conference. (I even got in a question about how they built the setlist which you’ll hear.) We’ve also included a few video clips made available from the press conference as well at bottom.

While reports have surfaced from the press conference—namely the band’s continued dismal of a proper reunion tour—there’s no substitution for actually hearing their responses to a variety questions for yourself as there were innumerable nuances and subtle asides that the printed word simply can’t capture.

All three members were extremely candid, offering insights not only on their preparation and feelings about the O2 gig, but on Ertegun, the rock and roll life of the ‘60 and ‘70s and their various musical explorations.

Unlike the previous two reunions, which, by various if not all accounts, were rather strained and forced, the O2 show proves that Led Zeppelin—even without the mighty Bonzo—is still a force to be reckoned with. Celebration Day is the concert itself, nothing more, nothing less. No interviews. No B Roll footage of the band getting ready backstage. It’s focused on the four men onstage who were looking to rekindle the magic and power of one of the greatest rock and roll bands of all time. Did they succeed? You can be the judge but I would be hard pressed to see someone not give a resounding “yes” after watching the film.

The band performing at the O2 Arena in 2007. Photo Kevin Westenberg.

Click here for more official videos from the New York City press conference!

Click here for more official videos from the New York City press conference!