Few songs in rock history carry the same mystique, power, and sheer sonic intensity as Led Zeppelin’s “Kashmir.” The track, widely regarded as one of the band’s finest moments, was a defining piece of their 1975 double album Physical Graffiti. But for Jimmy Page, the song’s magic wasn’t just in its recording or live performances—it started the very first time he and drummer John Bonham played it together.
In a recently resurfaced interview, Page reflected on that electrifying moment when he and Bonham locked into the now-iconic groove for the first time, an experience that left the legendary guitarist in awe. “Once we started playing ‘Kashmir’… I didn’t want to stop,” Page recalled, his voice still filled with enthusiasm for the memory.
The Birth of a Rock Anthem
“Kashmir” was unlike anything Led Zeppelin had attempted before. A hypnotic, Middle Eastern-inspired riff, pounding orchestral drums, and haunting lyrics made it an instant classic. Page had been working on the song’s signature guitar part for some time, but it wasn’t until Bonham’s thunderous, unrelenting drumming was added that it truly came to life.
“I had this riff, this idea, and I knew it was something special,” Page explained. “But the moment Bonzo [Bonham] came in, it became something else entirely. His playing just took it to another level.”
According to Page, the chemistry between him and Bonham was immediate.
“I remember starting the riff, and then he came in with this massive, pounding beat. It was like a switch flipped—we were locked in. There was this energy between us that was undeniable. We just kept going, letting the music guide us. It was one of those moments where you feel like you’ve tapped into something greater than yourself.”
A Song That Stood the Test of Time
The first time Page and Bonham played “Kashmir” together marked the beginning of what would become one of the most celebrated songs in rock history. When the track was finally recorded, it showcased Zeppelin’s unparalleled ability to blend hard rock, orchestral grandeur, and Eastern influences into something entirely unique.
Robert Plant’s soaring vocals and poetic lyrics, combined with John Paul Jones’ orchestration, completed the masterpiece. But at the heart of the song lay Page’s hypnotic riff and Bonham’s thunderous drum attack—the very essence of Zeppelin’s larger-than-life sound.
Page recalled how even after the song was recorded, he never grew tired of playing it. “There are some songs that just have this magic, this pull,” he said. “Every time we played ‘Kashmir’ live, it felt just as powerful as the first time Bonzo and I locked into that groove.”
The Legacy of ‘Kashmir’
Decades later, “Kashmir” remains a defining moment in rock music. Its influence can be heard in countless artists across multiple genres, and its presence in Zeppelin’s setlists cemented it as one of their most powerful live tracks.
Even after Bonham’s untimely death in 1980, Page has continued to honor the song’s legacy. Whether performing it at reunion concerts or reflecting on its creation, it’s clear that “Kashmir” holds a special place in his heart.
“There’s a reason ‘Kashmir’ is still talked about today,” Page said. “It’s not just a song—it’s an experience. And for me, it all goes back to that first moment in the studio with Bonzo, feeling that pure musical connection. I knew we had something that would last forever.”
A Moment of Pure Rock History
For rock fans and musicians alike, hearing Jimmy Page reminisce about that pivotal moment in Zeppelin’s history serves as a reminder of what made the band so legendary. It wasn’t just the songwriting or technical prowess—it was the raw energy, the chemistry, and the unmatched power of their sound.
And while Led Zeppelin may no longer be active, their music continues to inspire new generations. “Kashmir,” in particular, remains a testament to the magic that can happen when two legendary musicians come together in the right moment, at the right time, and create something that will echo through history.
As Page himself put it best: “Once we started playing ‘Kashmir’… I didn’t want to stop.”
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