After the iconic rock band Led Zeppelin disbanded in 1980 following the death of drummer John Bonham, John Paul Jones embarked on a highly diverse and prolific solo career, extending his musical contributions across various genres and disciplines. He has since been active as a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, arranger, producer, and film composer.
Life After Led Zeppelin: A Multifaceted Career
Jones, renowned for his foundational basslines, masterful keyboard work, and intricate arrangements within Led Zeppelin, seamlessly transitioned into a wide array of musical endeavors. His post-Zeppelin career is marked by an eagerness to explore new sounds and collaborate with artists from different musical backgrounds.
Solo Work and Albums
Following Led Zeppelin's dissolution, Jones quickly established himself as a solo artist, releasing several albums that showcased his compositional depth and instrumental versatility. His solo efforts often blended rock sensibilities with elements of world music, electronic music, and classical arrangements.
Notable solo releases include:
- The Sporting Life (1994): A collaborative album with avant-garde vocalist Diamanda Galás, demonstrating his willingness to explore experimental soundscapes.
- Zooma (1999): An instrumental album that highlighted his prowess on bass guitar, featuring complex rhythms and melodic structures.
- The Thunderthief (2001): Continuing the instrumental focus with a blend of rock, folk, and progressive elements.
Diverse Collaborations and Supergroups
A significant aspect of Jones's post-Zeppelin career has been his extensive collaborations with a wide range of musicians, crossing numerous genres from rock and folk to electronic and classical. He has lent his talents to recording sessions, live performances, and complete album projects.
Key Collaborations and Projects:
- Them Crooked Vultures: One of his most prominent recent projects is the supergroup Them Crooked Vultures, formed in 2009. In this power trio, Jones plays bass and keyboards alongside Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters, Nirvana) on drums and Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age, Kyuss) on guitar and vocals. This collaboration solidified his reputation for being adaptable and relevant in contemporary rock. Alain Johannes also contributes to the band, particularly in live performances.
- Foo Fighters: Jones has made guest appearances with the Foo Fighters, including a memorable performance at the Grammy Awards.
- Other Artists: He has worked with artists such as R.E.M., Peter Gabriel, Paul McCartney, Brian Eno, and Seasick Steve, showcasing his breadth of influence and adaptability.
Production and Arranging
Beyond performing, John Paul Jones has also established a respected career as a producer and arranger. His work behind the scenes has involved shaping the sound of various artists, leveraging his deep understanding of music theory and composition.
Production Credits Include:
- Albums for artists like The Mission, Butthole Surfers, and Heart.
- Orchestral arrangements for various projects, demonstrating his classical training.
Film Scoring and Contemporary Work
Jones has also ventured into film scoring, composing soundtracks that reflect his eclectic musical tastes. His work in film adds another dimension to his impressive career, highlighting his ability to create atmospheric and narrative-driven music.
In recent years, Jones continues to engage in diverse musical projects, whether through live performances, studio collaborations, or new creative ventures. His enduring passion for music and willingness to explore new sounds firmly cement his status as one of rock's most versatile and respected musicians.
Summary of John Paul Jones's Post-Led Zeppelin Career
| Period | Key Activity | Notable Projects/Collaborations |
|---|---|---|
| Post-Led Zeppelin | Solo Career Development, Production | The Sporting Life, Zooma, The Thunderthief |
| 2000s-Present | Supergroups, Diverse Collaborations | Them Crooked Vultures (with Dave Grohl, Josh Homme, Alain Johannes), Seasick Steve, Foo Fighters |
| Ongoing Roles | Composer, Arranger, Multi-instrumentalist | Film scores, session work, various artistic endeavors |
