The Genesis of "Becoming Led Zeppelin": A Tale as Enthralling as the Doc Itself
"Becoming Led Zeppelin" is an extraordinary documentary that chronicles the origins and meteoric rise of one of rock music’s most iconic bands. What sets this film apart is not only its rich and revealing content but also the remarkable story behind its creation, a tale that is as fascinating as the documentary itself.
A Serendipitous Collaboration
Directors Bernard MacMahon and Allison McGourty, the driving force behind "Becoming Led Zeppelin," first approached the band with the idea of a documentary in 2015. However, Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, and John Paul Jones, the surviving members, had consistently declined such overtures in the past.
But fate had a different plan. MacMahon and McGourty’s acclaimed documentary series "American Epic," which explored the roots of American popular music, had inadvertently created a bridge to the legendary rockers. Page and Plant were ardent fans of the series, and their admiration for the filmmakers’ meticulous approach and deep understanding of music history played a crucial role in their decision to collaborate.
Page’s Initiation: A Treasure Trove of Memorabilia
Page’s enthusiasm was evident from the outset. When MacMahon and McGourty met him, he arrived bearing plastic bags filled with an astonishing collection of memorabilia: photographs, newspaper clippings, diaries, and other precious artifacts that painted a vivid picture of the band’s early days.
Jones’s Enigma: A Man of Few Words
John Paul Jones, on the other hand, proved to be more enigmatic. The filmmakers sent him a copy of "American Epic," hoping to pique his interest. To their delight, Jones, a devoted fan of early country music, was captivated. Yet, his taciturn nature made it difficult to gauge his true feelings about the project.
Plant’s Pursuit: A Test of Patience and Persistence
Robert Plant presented a different challenge. Despite expressing interest in the documentary, he remained elusive, inviting the filmmakers to numerous concerts only to postpone their meeting. MacMahon and McGourty persevered, convinced that Plant’s involvement was essential. Their patience was ultimately rewarded when Plant invited them to his hotel room in Birmingham, England, accompanied by Pat Bonham, John Bonham’s widow. It was at that moment that the filmmakers knew they had secured his participation.
John Bonham’s Voice: A Priceless Discovery
One of the most poignant aspects of "Becoming Led Zeppelin" is the inclusion of John Bonham’s voice. Plant insisted that the documentary reflect Bonham’s significant contributions to the band’s sound, despite the limited interviews he had given during that early period.
MacMahon and McGourty embarked on a tireless search, eventually locating a static-filled bootleg recording of a radio interview Bonham had done shortly after the band’s formation. Through sheer persistence, they traced the tape to the University of Canberra, where it had been filed away in an archival donation.
Premiere Night: A Moment of Profound Gratitude
The filmmakers’ labor of love culminated in the film’s premiere at the TCL Chinese Theater in Hollywood. To their astonishment, a tall, handsome man approached MacMahon after the screening. With tears in his eyes, he expressed his profound gratitude for the documentary, revealing that it was the first time he had ever heard his grandfather, John Bonham, speak. It was his grandson, Jager Bonham, paying tribute to the legacy of the legendary drummer.
Beyond the Music: A Legacy of Inclusivity
"Becoming Led Zeppelin" does not focus solely on the band’s prodigious musical talent. It also explores the diversity of its members, hailing from different backgrounds and musical influences. This inclusivity contributed to the band’s unique sound and forged a camaraderie that transcended their musical collaborations.
A Collaborative Triumph
The creation of "Becoming Led Zeppelin" is a testament to the transformative power of collaboration. MacMahon and McGourty’s passion for music, their meticulous attention to detail, and their sincere desire to honor the band’s legacy resonated with Page, Plant, and Jones.
Together, they have crafted a cinematic masterpiece that not only celebrates the genesis of a musical icon but also offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the serendipitous events that brought it to life. In the words of Plant himself, "Becoming Led Zeppelin" is "an extraordinary story of how four guys came together to make some noise."
