Led Zeppelin: The Song Remains the Same

A record of Led Zeppelin’s legendary July 1973 concerts at Madison Square Garden in New York, The Song Remains The Same is one of the greatest concert films in rock history, perfectly capturing the raw energy and magic of the band’s live performances. Ironically, the making of the film was far from smooth. The American filmmakers’ union initially opposed a British crew working on the project. Additionally, the director originally hired by the band’s manager, Peter Grant – Joe Massot – lacked experience, resulting in gaps in the footage. To compensate, additional sequences were shot in the studio, along with brief dramatized interludes, a task completed by Peter Clifton. The resulting mix of live performances, staged sequences, and surreal dreamlike imagery provides fascinating insight into the personalities of the four band members: Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones, and John “Bonzo” Bonham. Yet, it’s the electrifying renditions of classic tracks – including Whole Lotta Love, Black Dog, Heartbreaker, and the iconic Stairway to Heaven – that make this film an unforgettable experience, still leaving audiences in awe to this day.

Wiesław Weiss

Peter Clifton and Joe Massot were a directing duo who made a lasting impact on music cinema. Massot gained recognition for the cult classic Wonderwall (1968), featuring music by George Harrison, while Clifton became known for his rock concert documentaries. Their most iconic collaboration, Led Zeppelin: The Song Remains the Same (1976), captured Led Zeppelin’s electrifying performances, blending live footage with surreal imagery. Their films didn’t just document music – they reflected the spirit of an era, becoming a vital part of rock mythology.