Hey, Hey What Can I Do

"Hey, Hey, What Can I Do" by Led Zeppelin is a rare gem in the band's catalog, released in 1970 as the B-side to the "Immigrant Song" single outside the United Kingdom. Unlike most of their tracks, it was not included on any studio album during the band's active years, making it their only non-album track released during their existence. This scarcity fueled its mystique, with fans cherishing its eventual inclusion on the 1990 Led Zeppelin Boxed Set and later on the 1993 expanded CD version of Coda. The song’s laid-back, acoustic vibe, driven by John Paul Jones’ mandolin and Robert Plant’s emotive vocals, contrasts with the band’s heavier sound, yet it captures their versatility. Fans on Reddit have speculated why it was excluded from Led Zeppelin III, with theories ranging from its pop-like feel not fitting the album’s flow to it being intentionally reserved as a B-side to boost the single’s appeal. Some even compare its sound to Rod Stewart’s "Maggie May," noting similarities in its breezy, storytelling style.

Lyrically, the song tells the story of a man in love with a free-spirited woman—often interpreted as a prostitute or party girl—who refuses to be tamed. Robert Plant’s delivery, paired with Jimmy Page’s 12-string guitar and John Bonham’s tight drum fills, creates a dynamic crescendo that feels quintessentially Zeppelin. The song’s rarity made it a fan favorite, with one Reddit user recalling the thrill of discovering it on a 45 RPM single in the 1980s, feeling like they’d unearthed a secret treasure. Despite its popularity, the band never performed it live, a fact confirmed by collectors on the Led Zeppelin Official Forum, who note its absence from all known live recordings. Its inclusion in a 2020 limited-edition 7” vinyl reissue of the Japanese "Immigrant Song" single, announced via Led Zeppelin’s X account, reignited excitement among collectors, though a planned reissue was canceled in 2021, as noted on Amazon reviews, leaving fans scrambling for remaining copies.

Led Zeppelin formed in London in 1968, evolving from the ashes of The Yardbirds, where guitarist Jimmy Page was a member. Page, eager to create a new band, recruited vocalist Robert Plant, bassist-keyboardist John Paul Jones, and drummer John Bonham. Initially called the New Yardbirds, they played their first gig together in a small room below a London record store, instantly clicking as a unit. Their manager, Peter Grant, suggested dropping the “a” from “Lead” to avoid mispronunciation, and the name Zeppelin was inspired by a quip about the band going down like a “lead balloon.” Signed to Atlantic Records with unprecedented artistic freedom, they recorded their debut album in 1969, blending blues, folk, and raw energy. This marked the birth of their heavy, guitar-driven sound, which would influence hard rock and heavy metal for decades. Their early tours, including a Scandinavian stint as the New Yardbirds, solidified their reputation as a powerhouse live act.

Fans can stay connected with Led Zeppelin’s official website for news, discography, and updates on projects like the upcoming documentary Becoming Led Zeppelin, set to premiere in IMAX in 2025. Their Facebook page shares archival photos and announcements, while Instagram offers visual throwbacks to their iconic performances. On X, the band posts about reissues and milestones, such as the 50th anniversary of Led Zeppelin III. Fan communities thrive online, with the Led Zeppelin Official Forum hosting discussions on everything from rare tracks to bootlegs. The Led Zeppelin Facebook Group is a vibrant space for fans to share memorabilia and stories, while r/ledzeppelin on Reddit buzzes with debates and trivia. These platforms keep the Zoo Freaks’ love for Led Zeppelin alive, spinning classics like "Hey, Hey, What Can I Do" for generations.