Rare, high-quality footage of Led Zeppelin performing in Amsterdam in May 1972 has surfaced, offering a captivating glimpse into one of rock’s most iconic bands at a pivotal moment in their career. The four-minute clip, originally filmed for the Dutch music television program Popzien, shows the band arriving in the Netherlands and opening their show at the Oude RAI Amsterdam with the explosive “Immigrant Song.”
The footage arrives as Led Zeppelin continues to resonate with audiences decades after their disbandment. The Amsterdam concert took place just six months after the release of their untitled fourth album – often referred to as Led Zeppelin IV – which would go on to become one of the best-selling albums of all time, featuring enduring classics like “Stairway to Heaven,” “Black Dog,” and “Rock and Roll.” The Amsterdam and Brussels shows served as warm-up performances before the band embarked on a major U.S. Tour in June 1972.
While previous versions of the Popzien footage have circulated online, they were significantly lower in quality. This newly released clip provides a remarkably clear view of the band’s energy and stage presence during that era. The video captures the excitement surrounding the concert, beginning with the band’s arrival at Amsterdam’s airport, where they were greeted by promoter Lou Van Rees. A brief, humorous exchange highlights the practical challenges of touring, even for a band of Led Zeppelin’s stature. Drummer John Bonham, known for his powerful and precise playing, immediately voiced concern over a missing cymbal, declaring, “There’ll be no full house without my cymbals! There’s one missing!”
The footage offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the logistics of a major rock tour. Following the airport greeting, the band is shown arriving at their hotel, where Van Rees is seen speaking with Led Zeppelin’s tour manager, Richard Cole. The interaction, though brief, hints at the financial complexities of staging a large-scale concert, with Van Rees attempting to present Cole with a suitcase presumably filled with cash, only for Cole to quickly shut it, seemingly aware of the cameras.
The clip then transitions to the concert itself, showcasing the band launching into “Immigrant Song,” a track that remains a staple of classic rock radio and a powerful example of Led Zeppelin’s signature sound. The performance captures the raw energy and musical virtuosity that defined the band’s live shows.
The surfacing of this footage comes amidst continued activity from the individual members of Led Zeppelin. Bassist John Paul Jones recently auctioned off a collection of studio equipment, including an amplifier that was famously damaged at the home of Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl. The auction featured a range of vintage and sought-after gear, including a Simmons SDS V electronic drum kit, AKAI digital samplers, Yamaha NS-10M speakers, and an Arbiter Soundimension mechanical echo unit.
Meanwhile, Robert Plant continues to pursue a successful solo career, having delivered a career-spanning performance for NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert series last year. The set included a rendition of “Gallows Pole,” a track from Led Zeppelin’s 1970 album, Led Zeppelin III, demonstrating Plant’s continued connection to the band’s extensive catalog.
Even offstage, Plant has been the subject of attention. Last year, the animal rights organization PETA urged Plant to temporarily change his name to “Robert Plant Wool” as part of a campaign promoting plant-based alternatives to sheep’s wool. The initiative aimed to raise awareness about the environmental and ethical concerns associated with the wool industry.
The rediscovery of this 1972 Amsterdam footage provides a valuable historical document for fans and music historians alike. It’s a reminder of Led Zeppelin’s enduring legacy and their impact on the landscape of rock music. The footage isn’t just a recording of a concert. it’s a snapshot of a band at the height of its powers, navigating the challenges and triumphs of life on the road, and solidifying its place as one of the most influential musical acts of all time. The availability of this high-resolution version allows a new generation of fans – and longtime devotees – to experience a piece of Led Zeppelin history with unprecedented clarity.
