No artist can escape the profound impact of those who came before them. Every musician is shaped by the songs of their youth, the icons who inspired them to pick up an instrument, and the albums they return to during creative dry spells. While genres evolve, the influence of key figures remains ever-present. Guitar-driven bands continue to point to The Velvet Underground, shoegazers turn to Loveless, and rockers everywhere still pay homage to Led Zeppelin.
Taking inspiration from predecessors is a vital part of songwriting, but it requires nuance to avoid losing one’s originality. For instance, Lana Del Rey channels old jazz singers but infuses their style with a modern twist that feels distinctly her own. However, in some cases, inspiration can veer into outright imitation.
One such example? Greta Van Fleet. Known for their unmistakable Led Zeppelin influence, the Detroit band has often been compared to the legendary rockers, with many critics pointing to their similarities in sound and style. While that may sound like an imitation, it’s clear Led Zeppelin’s legacy still resonates deeply with young artists.
In an interview with The Project Exclusive, Robert Plant, the iconic lead vocalist of Led Zeppelin, humorously gave his thoughts on Greta Van Fleet. Describing them as a “modern-day Led Zeppelin I,” he expressed admiration for their talents while teasing the band for borrowing from his own vocal style.
“Yeah, and he borrowed it from somebody I know very well,” he joked about the band’s frontman, Josh Kiszka.
While their music certainly channels the energy of Led Zeppelin’s prime, borrowing from Plant’s powerful vocals and Jimmy Page’s raucous guitar riffs, Plant seemed unfazed by the similarities. In fact, he laughed off the notion of imitation, suggesting that it was all in good fun.
Greta Van Fleet’s success—earned despite criticism from some classic rock purists—shows that Led Zeppelin’s influence remains relevant, even decades after the band’s peak. Their modern take on rock continues to connect with audiences worldwide, proving that Led Zeppelin’s sound is still as potent today as ever.
