[montag813]

Bonham’s death was brutal. That man was unparalleled on drums. Saw Zep on their very last tour when I was all of 13. I was a drummer. Bonham was mesmerizing. So tragic and pointless a death.

[DoodleBob]

I agree with everything you wrote except the pointless comment. Somewhere, I suspect some kids who were heavy into drinking decided against chugging vodka etc after hearing that Bonham died of alcohol poisoning-induced asphyxiation via vomit. Yes, the world lost a great drummer (and we can slag off Zep as a band but Ninham was probably the best raw talent in that band with JPJ being the best technical talent). But his death may have lead fans to lead a better life.

On a different level, Bonzo's death probably secured Zeppelin's status in rock. By 1980 their live shows were pitiful, In Through the Out Door was their second weakest album behind III, and punk etc was taking over. Had they continued in their sorry state their legendary status may have been jeopardized. Again, I'm not happy Bohnam died, but that may have helped with their place in rock. To wit: Aerosmith *MAY* have fared better in the annals of rock had they quit before Night in the Ruts.

[A Navy Vet]

"Bonham’s death was brutal. That man was unparalleled on drums."

As a drummer, I agree he was for the time. However, Ginger Baker of Cream started the duel bass drum hard hitting rifts and fills (think Sunshine of Your Love). Until Baker, that sound didn't exist with all the British invasion bands. Bonham perfected it.