It’s no secret that nearly all of the classic rock icons who dominated popular music in the 1960s and 70s were all heavily influenced by American artists in the 1950s, most notably Elvis Presley. One of those rock icons would be none other than former Led Zepplin frontman Robert Plant, who took it upon himself to belt out some of his Elvis favorites during a party for his former wife, Maureen Plant, held at the Fox Inn in Stourton, England earlier this month.
According to reports, the singer took advantage of the celebratory event by joining a local rockabilly band from West Midlands, England known as The Hayriders, who acted as his backing band while Plant performed a trio of Elvis tunes, including “One Night”, “Little Sister”, and “A Big Hunk O’ Love”. Thankfully, the band’s actual vocalist Neil Wright must have been cool in stepping aside to let the Zeppelin singer take the reins for a fun and impressive musical gift to his ex-wife of whom they share two children. Those who weren’t lucky enough to snag an invite to the party can check out Plant’s performances of “One Night” and “Little Sister” in the fan-shot videos below.
The Hayriders with Robert Plant – “Little Sister” (Elvis Presley Cover)
[Video: 1967mjt]
Kudos to Mr. Plant for being able to keep a strong relationship with his former wife after all these years. Then again, they do come from the 1960s as part of a generation that didn’t quite grasp the more traditional, uptight concepts of marriage and relationships. Robert and Maureen divorced back in 1983, just a few years following the breakup of Zeppelin.
The Hayriders with Robert Plant – “One Night” (Elvis Presley Cover)
[Video: 1967mjt]
While he may want to put his career as an Elvis impersonator on hold, Robert can definitely look back at the last year with a celebratory attitude. The singer toured throughout much of the year in promotion of his 2017 solo album, Carry Fire. He also teamed up once again with his former Zeppelin bandmates to celebrate their 50th anniversary since forming in 1968 with the release of a commemorative picture book, in addition to reissuing their How the West Was Won and The Song Remains The Same live albums.
Speaking of Led Zeppelin, fellow hard rock band Umphrey’s McGee also announced on Tuesday that they’ll be returning to Red Rocks Amphitheatre next summer for three nights. One of those nights (June 23rd) will feature a special Led Zeppelin set with guest drummer Jason Bonham.
[H/T JamBase]