Hey rock enthusiasts! We’ve got some electrifying news that’s sure to make your hearts race. Imagine stepping back in time to witness Led Zeppelin in their prime—sounds like a dream, right? Well, pinch yourself because it’s now a reality!
A Blast from the Past
In July 1979, just a month before their legendary Knebworth performances, Led Zeppelin graced the stage of the Falkoner Centre in Copenhagen for two intimate warm-up shows. These concerts were pivotal, setting the stage for what would be their final UK appearances before the band’s separation in 1980, following the untimely passing of drummer John Bonham.
Fast forward 45 years, and a gem from these Copenhagen gigs has surfaced: a 13-minute video capturing the raw energy and magic of Led Zeppelin live. This isn’t just any footage; it’s a time capsule that transports us straight into the heart of rock history.
The Man Behind the Lens
Meet Lennart Ström, a devoted fan who attended one of those Copenhagen shows. Armed with a Super 8 camera, Lennart discreetly filmed the performance, aiming to test out new indoor film stock. Sneaking the compact camera into the venue (tucked behind his back, no less), he managed to capture moments that have remained unseen—until now.
Reflecting on that night, Lennart shared, “We brought the Super 8 camera to test new indoor film. Sneaking it in was easy; it was small enough to hide. Back then, filming wasn’t common—audio equipment was the main focus.”
Bringing the Footage to Life
Once rediscovered, the film underwent meticulous restoration. The team at Reel Revival Film handled the delicate task of scanning the footage, while The Pink Floyd Research Group took charge of color correction, ensuring the visuals were as vibrant as the day they were captured. To top it off, the silent film was synchronized with audio recordings from the concert, creating a seamless and immersive experience.
A Setlist to Remember
In this treasure trove, you’ll catch glimpses of classics such as:
- “The Song Remains The Same”
- “Black Dog”
- “Nobody’s Fault But Mine”
- “Over The Hills and Far Away”
- “Misty Mountain Hop”
- “Since I’ve Been Loving You”
- “No Quarter”
- “Hot Dog”
- “The Rain Song”
- “White Summer”
- “Kashmir”
- “Trampled Underfoot”
- “Sick Again”
- “Achilles Last Stand”
- “In The Evening”
- “Stairway To Heaven”
- “Whole Lotta Love”
Plus, a mesmerizing solo from Jimmy Page that showcases his unparalleled talent.
Why This Matters
Discoveries like this are rare and invaluable. They offer fresh insights into a band’s legacy and allow both longtime fans and new listeners to experience the magic of live performances that have been lost to time. This footage not only enriches Led Zeppelin’s storied history but also serves as a testament to the enduring power of rock ‘n’ roll.
So, grab your air guitars, crank up the volume, and dive into this newly unearthed piece of rock history. It’s a reminder of why we fell in love with rock music in the first place and a celebration of a band that continues to inspire generations.
