John Bonham

John Henry (Bonzo) Bonham (May 31 1948 - September 25, 1980), was the drummer of rock band Led Zeppelin, and is respected widely throughout music as one of the best drummers of all time. His groovy feel, amazing chops, versatile skills, hard hitting power, and his passion for the instrument make him one of the most influential drummers ever. Bonham died prematurely, but his approach to hard rock and heavy metal drumming continues to be a standard by which all others are judged. His signature licks live on as played by the modern drummers of today.

Bonham's death

Bonham disliked both being away from his home and family for long periods and flying. This led him to drink heavily to work off his nerves. On September 24, 1980, Bonham was picked up by Led Zeppelin assistant Rex King from The Old Hyde hotel to be at rehearsals at Bray Studios for the upcoming tour of the United States, the band's first since 1977. During the journey Bonham had downed four quadruple vodkas, and continued to drink at the studio. A halt was called to the rehearsals late in the evening and the band retired to Page's house in Windsor. After midnight, Bonham had fallen asleep and was taken to bed on his side. Tour manager Benji LeFevre found him dead the next morning. The cause of death was asphyxiation caused by choking on his own vomit. A subsequent coroner inquest found no other drugs in Bonham's body. John Bonham was buried on October 10, 1980 at Rushock parish churchyard, near The Old Hyde farm.

Related Topics:
September 24 - 1980 - Led Zeppelin - United States - 1977 - Windsor - October 10

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Rumours quickly abound that Cozy Powell, Carmine Appice, Simon Kirke, Bev Bevan or B.P. Fallon would join the group as his replacement but Bonham's passing has been the single biggest factor in why Led Zeppelin has never successfully reformed. His influence in the band's sound was unique.

Related Topics:
Cozy Powell - Carmine Appice - Simon Kirke - Bev Bevan - B.P. Fallon - Led Zeppelin

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Bonham's young sister, Debbie Bonham, is a singer. His younger brother, Mick Bonham (died 2000), was a disc jockey and respected photographer. John Bonham's son, Jason Bonham (born 1966), also became a rock drummer. Bonham's daughter, Zoe Bonham, appears regularly at Led Zeppelin conventions and awards. In 2005, they appeared at the Grammy Awards to collect their father's Lifetime Achievement award.

Related Topics:
Debbie Bonham - Mick Bonham - Jason Bonham - Led Zeppelin

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~