Burning Down One Side

Zoo Freaks, get ready to vibe with the Zoo Crew as they spin "Burning Down One Side" from Robert Plant's debut solo album, Pictures at Eleven! This track, a high-energy rocker, was the lead single from the 1982 album and became a staple on album-oriented rock radio, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard Top Tracks chart. One juicy tidbit about the song is its recording process, which featured Phil Collins on drums. Collins, fresh off his own solo success with Face Value, brought a dynamic edge to the track, laying down beats for six of the album’s eight songs. Plant later shared in a 1982 interview with Creem magazine that Collins’ involvement was a “happy accident,” as their mutual respect led to a spontaneous and fiery collaboration. The song’s title has sparked fan theories, with some speculating it nods to Plant’s desire to break free from Led Zeppelin’s shadow, though Plant has remained coy, saying in a 1983 Rockline radio interview, “It’s just a phrase that felt right—let’s not overthink it.”

Another cool piece of trivia comes from the song’s music video, a staple of early MTV that showcased Plant’s charisma with surreal imagery and a gritty desert vibe. Posted on Plant’s official Facebook in 2020, the HD-remastered video was celebrated as part of his Digging Deep series, with fans on X praising its raw energy. The song’s B-side, “Far Post,” also gained traction, hitting No. 12 on the Billboard Top Tracks chart in 1983, showing Plant’s knack for crafting compelling non-album tracks. Fans on the Led Zeppelin Fans Facebook group often cite “Burning Down One Side” as a pivotal moment in Plant’s solo career, blending Zeppelin’s swagger with a fresh, ’80s-infused sound. The track’s driving rhythm and Plant’s signature wail make it a perfect fit for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic, free-spirited playlist.

Robert Plant, born August 20, 1948, in West Bromwich, Staffordshire, England, kicked off his musical journey as a teenager in the vibrant 1960s Midlands scene. Growing up in Worcestershire, Plant was captivated by blues and rock ’n’ roll, idolizing artists like Elvis Presley and Muddy Waters. He dropped out of King Edward VI Grammar School to chase music, singing in local bands like the Crawling King Snakes. By his late teens, Plant’s powerful voice caught the attention of guitarist Jimmy Page, who recruited him for a new project that became Led Zeppelin in 1968. Plant’s dynamic vocal range and flamboyant stage presence helped propel the band to global stardom, with hits like “Stairway to Heaven” cementing his legacy. After Zeppelin’s dissolution in 1980 following drummer John Bonham’s death, Plant launched his solo career with Pictures at Eleven, proving he could evolve beyond the band’s shadow.

Today, Plant remains a creative force, exploring genres from bluegrass to world music. You can keep up with his latest projects on his official website, where he shares tour dates, music releases, and reflections on his career. Follow him on Facebook for updates like the Digging Deep video series, or check out his Instagram for behind-the-scenes glimpses of his tours and personal moments. On X, Plant engages with fans, sharing thoughts on music and life. For Zoo Freaks looking to connect with fellow fans, the Led Zeppelin Fans Facebook group is a lively hub for discussing Plant’s solo work and Zeppelin’s legacy. Another great spot is Robert Plant’s official community forum, where fans swap stories, share concert experiences, and celebrate the golden god’s enduring impact. So, crank up “Burning Down One Side” and let the Zoo Crew take you on a wild ride!