The Led Zeppelin Classic Robert Plant Called “Horrific”

Even the greatest artists can be their own harshest critics, and that certainly holds true for Robert Plant, the legendary frontman of Led Zeppelin. Despite his iconic status and the band’s unparalleled success, Plant has, on occasion, looked back at some of his earlier work with a critical eye, even labeling one classic Led Zeppelin track as “horrific.”

The song in question that drew Plant’s particularly strong disapproval for his own performance is **”Babe I’m Gonna Leave You,”** from Led Zeppelin’s self-titled debut album, released in 1969. While the track is now a beloved staple of classic rock radio and features the band’s signature blend of acoustic fragility and heavy rock power, Plant’s feelings about his vocal delivery on it have long been complex.

In interviews, Plant has reflected on his early singing style, admitting that he was still finding his voice and identity as a vocalist during the recording of that first album. He expressed that the “tough, manly approach to singing” he adopted for certain songs, including “Babe I’m Gonna Leave You,” wasn’t what he ultimately felt was genuine or effective. He famously stated to The Guardian, “Songs like ‘Babe I’m Going To Leave You’ I find my vocals on there horrific now. I really should have shut the f*** up!”

This self-criticism stems from Plant’s continuous artistic evolution. Throughout his extensive solo career, he has explored a vast array of musical genres, from folk and world music to Americana, often favoring a more nuanced and less overtly bombastic vocal style. This journey has given him a different perspective on his youthful, full-throttle approach in early Led Zeppelin, where his powerful wail often dominated the soundscape.

Despite his personal reservations about his vocal performance, “Babe I’m Gonna Leave You” remains a fan favorite and a testament to the raw, untamed energy of early Led Zeppelin. It’s a reminder that even the most legendary creations can be viewed differently by their creators over time, but their impact on listeners often remains undimmed.