MGM Northfield Park, Northfield, Ohio – 15 November 2024
If you’re a Led Zeppelin fan above the age of 50, you remember the heady days of Zeppelin’s reign over the rock world—a time when their music and stage presence were so monumental that it seemed impossible for anyone to replicate. But when the band disbanded after the tragic death of John Bonham in 1980, the music world was left with only a handful of opportunities to see the magic of Led Zeppelin live again. That is, until Jason Bonham, the son of the legendary drummer, took it upon himself to give the fans what they’d been craving for decades.
Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening has been bringing the music of Led Zeppelin to sold-out crowds across the world for the past 15 years, and his recent performance at the MGM Northfield Park in Ohio was nothing short of spectacular. With Bonham on drums, a stellar band of musicians, and the ever-present legacy of Zeppelin in the air, the evening was a celebration of everything that made Led Zeppelin one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
A Night to Remember
On the night of November 15, 2024, fans in Northfield Park were treated to an unforgettable performance that spanned the legendary band’s catalog. The air was thick with anticipation as Bonham’s band took to the stage, ready to transport the audience back to the glory days of Zeppelin. From the very first notes of “In The Evening”, it was clear that this would be a night to remember. The crowd was immediately immersed in the soaring, familiar riffs and thunderous drumming that made Led Zeppelin a household name.
Bonham, who plays with the same fierce intensity and passion as his father, John Bonham (Bonzo), was a sight to behold behind the drum kit. The bass drum’s resonating thud, especially during tracks like “When The Levee Breaks”, reverberated through the venue, and it was impossible not to feel the legacy of his father in each thunderous beat. It was a sonic experience that could only be delivered by someone who truly understood the power and spirit of Led Zeppelin.
Stellar Performances from the Band
While Jason Bonham was undoubtedly the focal point of the show, his bandmates shone just as brightly, each member bringing something unique to the performance.
Jimmy Sakurai, a Jimmy Page look-alike, nailed every note with precision and authenticity. Sakurai, known as “Mr. Jimmy”, played his iconic Les Paul guitar just like Page himself, flawlessly delivering the unforgettable riffs on tracks like “Stairway to Heaven”—even wielding the famous double-neck guitar to perfection. It was almost as if Page himself had stepped out of the past and into the spotlight again.
On vocals, James Dylan delivered a performance that honored Robert Plant without trying to imitate him. Dylan’s voice soared through the highs and lows of Zeppelin’s most iconic songs with his own style and flair, making him a true force in the performance. His rendition of “Dazed and Confused” was a particular highlight, as he brought his own energy to the track while paying respect to Plant’s legendary vocal delivery.
Meanwhile, Dorian Heartsong brought the bass lines of John Paul Jones to life with incredible precision, adding his own unique touch while keeping the intricate patterns of Zeppelin’s music intact. Especially on songs like “Ramble On”, his bass work helped anchor the band’s sound and kept the audience entranced throughout the performance.
A Setlist Packed with Classics
The setlist for the evening was nothing short of legendary, with 15 of Led Zeppelin’s greatest hits being performed in full force. From the opening chords of “In the Evening” to the electrifying finale with “Rock and Roll”, the band left no stone unturned. Highlights of the evening included:
- “Good Times Bad Times”
- “Celebration Day”
- “Over the Hills and Far Away”
- “What Is and What Should Never Be”
- “Achilles Last Stand”
- “Dazed and Confused”
- “Kashmir”
- “Whole Lotta Love”
The crowd was absolutely electric, singing along to every word, and the band responded in kind, giving their all for each song. The band’s chemistry and energy on stage were palpable, making it clear that this wasn’t just a tribute band—it was a celebration of the music, the legacy, and the spirit of Led Zeppelin.
A Personal Touch
What made the evening even more special was the personal connection that Jason Bonham has to the music. As the son of John Bonham, he’s not just playing these songs—he’s living them. Throughout the evening, he shared personal anecdotes about growing up surrounded by the music of Led Zeppelin and the profound impact his father’s drumming had on his life. It was a poignant reminder of the family legacy that lives on through this band.
Why This Show Matters
While there are many tribute acts paying homage to Led Zeppelin, none bring the same authenticity and emotional weight as Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening. Jason doesn’t just drum for the sake of it—he channels the spirit of his father, the legendary John Bonham, and brings his father’s unmatched energy and sound to every show. In doing so, he ensures that Zeppelin’s music continues to live on in the hearts of fans, both new and old.
For those lucky enough to witness the show, it was more than just a concert—it was an emotional journey. A chance to experience the music of Led Zeppelin in a way that no other tribute band could replicate, all while feeling the presence of Bonzo himself in every beat.
Get The Led Out
As if the night wasn’t already special enough, Get The Led Out Live will be airing tonight, bringing fans even closer to the magic of Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening. Fans who missed the show can tune in to hear the live performance, capturing all the energy and emotion of this unforgettable night.
For Zeppelin fans, there’s nothing quite like hearing their favorite songs live once again, and Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening is the closest they’ll ever come to experiencing Led Zeppelin in their prime.
Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening – Setlist:
- In the Evening
- Good Times Bad Times
- Celebration Day
- Over the Hills and Far Away
- Ramble On
- What Is and What Should Never Be
- When the Levee Breaks
- Achilles Last Stand
- Dazed and Confused
- Friends
- The Ocean
- Misty Mountain Hop
- Kashmir
- Stairway to Heaven
- Whole Lotta Love
- Rock and Roll
For more tour information, visit Jason Bonham’s website.