Greta Van Fleet: Gen Z’s Zeppelin?

Led Zeppelin vs. Greta Van Fleet- rip off or coincidence?

Taryn Crowley|September 19, 2021

Greta Van Fleet is a 70s blues inspired rock band from Frankenmuth, Michigan. They’re pretty young for a band as popular as they are; their debut in 2017 quite literally catapulted them into mainstream rock, mostly catching the attention of Gen Z kids everywhere. Many say they are a little too similar to one of the most, if not the most, influential bands of all time, Led Zeppelin. Some say they’re a direct copycat, others think they have qualities that set them far apart; personally, I believe there is a good blend between the two. Here are similarities and differences between the two to really get down and discover the answer to everyone’s questions: “Just how similar are Led Zeppelin and Greta Van Fleet?”, and “Is Greta Van Fleet a discount Zeppelin?”.

Similarities

Vocals: The only strong argument for labeling Greta Van Fleet as a “Zeppelin knock-off” would be the vocals. The lead singer, Josh, has a very similar voice and range as Robert Plant, which is pretty rare. Look to songs like “Safari Song” if you really want to hear a Zeppelin-cover-esque track that’ll rock your socks off.
Instrumentals: Sure, they both write and pump out rock music. The guitar in some Greta Van Fleet songs like “Highway Tune” sounds like a Zeppelin track, no doubt (with the vocals the similarity is pretty crazy). Here’s a link to the song if you want to give it a listen and follow along with my train of thought.

I feel as though the rise of the “Greta Van Fleet is a Zeppelin knock-off” phenomena held so much validity at its peak (circa 2018) due to their early music heavily resembling Zeppelin’s style. Their newest release, though, is a completely different story.

Differences

Vocals: Side by side, their voices do not sound exactly alike; each singer adds their own personality to spice it up, making the two differ when it comes to the vocals. Josh’s vocals are more high pitched while Robert’s are lower. Not sure if I could explain it any better, but if you listen to their songs side by side I’m sure you’ll hear what I’m talking about.
Instrumentals: Zeppelin has its own sound that isn’t very replicable. Between Jimmy Page’s use of the double neck guitar and Jake’s (Josh’s brother/guitarist of GVF) riffs aren’t necessarily the star of the show like Page’s work in “Stairway to Heaven” or “Kashmir”. Greta Van Fleet uses less guitar solos in total compared to Zeppelin. Or, I guess I should say, Zeppelin has more iconic/memorable guitar riffs whereas GVF has a blend of all aspects of instrumental production where the vocals, guitar, bass, keyboard, and percussion do not outshine one another, if that makes sense. Don’t get me wrong; Jake has some pretty baller riffs.
Production: The production is what really sets the two groups apart. Maybe it’s because one was mastered in the 70s (remastered in 2013) and the other was recently compiled using 2020 era production equipment. Personally, I think the contrast in production also makes each group have their own personality. The following link is to a song most of you probably know/have heard before called “Heat Above”. The production in this song alone proves to me that GVF is unique and NOT! a Zeppelin rip off.

Greta Van Fleet’s latest album, “The Battle at Garden’s Gate”, where “Heat Above” is featured, sets them apart from Zeppelin entirely. While speaking on the band’s similarity to Led Zeppelin, Josh was asked about his thoughts on his vocal comparison to Robert Plant. And to that, he responded “it was not what I was going for”. Regardless, I think it’s pretty hard to completely replicate someone else’s style of singing. Although Jake’s guitar abilities are absolutely insane and he is way beyond his years with talent, he is no Jimmy Page–but who’s to say in 5 years he won’t have Jimmy Page iconic riff status. Jake already has his own style and outstanding riffs (see “Age of Machine”) that differs greatly from that of Jimmy. Not to mention, the production alone makes a huge difference.

Overall, Greta Van Fleet, I am in love with you. You’re the reincarnation of everything amazing about Led Zeppelin, and as Robert Plant put it, “they are Led Zeppelin I”. I am manifesting concert tickets in my future. If you’re not too familiar with GVF, here’s “must listen to” songs from me to you!