The Led Zeppelin song John Paul Jones couldn’t stand and why it was John Bonham’s fault:
"It sounded so dreadful"
(Credits: Far Out / Dick Barnatt / Atlantic Records / John Paul Jones)
Mon 23 February 2026 14:58, UK
In the world of rock, it's easy to assume that stars reign supreme, but Led Zeppelin's journey tells a different story. Despite their legendary status, they faced harsh criticism, especially for their early work. Despite creating masterpieces like 'Stairway to Heaven', critics labeled them as 'bottom-of-the-barrel rock and roll'.
However, as the band evolved, they began to experiment with new sounds. 'Houses of the Holy' marked a turning point, where they ventured beyond blues and explored funk and world music. While songs like 'Over the Hills and Far Away' and 'The Rain Song' became fan favorites, 'D'yer Ma'ker' stood out as an anomaly, leaving John Paul Jones with a lasting impression of discord.
Jones, known for his musical prowess, found 'D'yer Ma'ker' to be a misstep. He believed the band misunderstood their fans' preferences, and the song's tonal imbalance was a result of John Bonham's drumming. According to Jones, Bonham's approach to reggae, which demands strict adherence to the beat, was not suited for the song. He felt that Bonham's tendency to play slightly behind the beat disrupted the song's flow, making it sound off.
This critique is not without merit. Led Zeppelin's strength lay in their ability to balance diverse musical elements. Bonham's signature behind-the-beat style was a key component of their sound, but in 'D'yer Ma'ker', it seemed out of place. The song's limping rhythm from verse to verse highlighted the disconnect between Bonham's playing and the song's intended vibe.
Despite this, Led Zeppelin remained committed to pushing boundaries. Their later works, like 'Physical Graffiti' and 'In Through The Out Door', showcased their willingness to explore new genres and sounds. Even after their golden age, they continued to experiment, as seen in Bonham's more relaxed approach on 'Fool in the Rain'.
'D'yer Ma'ker' may have been a misstep, but it's a testament to Led Zeppelin's willingness to take risks. They were never afraid to explore new territories, even if it meant making a 'terrible mistake'.
So, while John Paul Jones may have had his reservations, Led Zeppelin's journey is a reminder that even the greatest bands can stumble along the way. It's all part of the process of creating music that resonates with fans and pushes the boundaries of what's possible.
