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Expert: Chris M. Zangara - 12/3/2004


Question
just wonderin if theres a reason or story of y icarus is on led zeppelin merchandise. thanks!

Answer
Hi Alyssa,

The symbol is the logo of Led Zeppelin's record label formed in 1973 called Swan Song.  Zeppelin started their own record label so they could sign other artists with whom they felt a love for.  The most famous of other Swan Song artists were Maggie Bell and Bad Company.  After Zeppelin disbanded in 1980, you can still see the Icarus (Swan Song) logo on albums from 'The Firm' (with Jimmy Page and Paul Rogers from Bad Co.) and the first 3 solo albums from Robert Plant.

The symbol is taken from a 19th century painting by William Rimmer of Apollo, the Sun God.  It has, according to Robert Plant been transformed into a formation of Icarus. The stunning origianl painting can be found in the Museum Of Fine Arts, in Boston.

There's no info on why Zeppelin chose that particular symbol as their logo.  They were very into al things mystical and I'm almost positive it was Robert Plant who suggested it.

Hope this helped!

Chris.  

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Chris M. Zangara

Expertise

I`m not only a Zeppelin fanatic, but I have been collecting Zeppelin - including Jimmy Page and Robert Plant solo music & information - for over 27 years. I am truly a lover of Page/Plant music in & out of Zeppelin simply because of the honesty & integrity of it all. - I have been studying them for as long as I have been listening to Rock/Blues Music. Their interpretation of the blues is unlike any other. I look forward to any question and will answer the very best I can - as above all - I am just a fan like you! (Please understand my interest is in the music and people of REAL life; NOT in rumor or fantasy).

Experience

Lover of blues roots and rock music from early 1900's to today. Musician for 30 years, mostly study of guitar and recording engineering.

Publications
http://ledzeppelinconcertticket.net/zeppelin_concert_club_west.html (click the PINK ticket). Other miscellaneous articles from allexperts given to help anyone who asks. I love to share.

Education/Credentials
Sound mixing and engineering certification and self training.

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