Who played drums in the group, Led Zeppelin?

John Bonham played drums in Led Zeppelin. Known by the nickname “Bonzo,” he supplied the band’s powerful, swinging rhythm and became one of rock music’s most influential drummers.

Bonham joined the group formed by guitarist Jimmy Page in 1968, alongside singer Robert Plant and bassist-keyboardist John Paul Jones. His playing combined heavy impact with unusual subtlety: songs such as “Good Times Bad Times,” “Whole Lotta Love” and “When the Levee Breaks” showcase both his force and his distinctive groove.

A common mix-up is confusing Bonham with John Paul Jones, who played bass and keyboards, or with Jimmy Page, who played guitar. Bonham was the only drummer in Led Zeppelin’s classic lineup and remained with the group throughout its active recording career.

Bonham died on September 25, 1980, at age 32. Led Zeppelin then disbanded, announcing that it could not continue without him. His son Jason Bonham later performed with surviving members of the band at major reunions, including the 2007 London tribute concert.