Personal details
Official sites :
Born:
- Birthday: 1946-01-03
- Born Place: Sidcup, Kent, England, UK
Also Known As:
John Baldwin, John Jones, John Richard Baldwin, Led Zeppelin, Them Crooked Vultures
John Paul Jones
John Paul Jones (born John Baldwin on January 3, 1946, in Sidcup, Kent, England) is a renowned English musician, composer, and record producer, best known as the bassist and keyboardist for the legendary rock band Led Zeppelin. Raised in a musical family—his father was a pianist and arranger for big bands—Jones developed a deep appreciation for various musical genres, including jazz, blues, and classical music. He began playing piano at six and later took up the bass guitar, drawing inspiration from artists like Phil Upchurch. By the age of 14, he was already serving as a choirmaster and organist at a local church. Before forming Led Zeppelin in 1968 with guitarist Jimmy Page, Jones had an extensive career as a session musician and arranger. He worked with prominent artists such as Donovan, Cat Stevens, and The Rolling Stones, contributing to their recordings and live performances . His versatility and proficiency in various instruments, including bass guitar, keyboards, and mandolin, became integral to Led Zeppelin's distinctive sound. Jones's contributions were not limited to instrumentation; he also played a significant role in the band's songwriting, co-writing tracks like "Black Dog" and "Whole Lotta Love" . Following the disbandment of Led Zeppelin in 1980 after drummer John Bonham's death, Jones continued to explore diverse musical avenues. He collaborated with artists across genres, including Paul McCartney, R.E.M., and Brian Eno. In the 2000s, he formed the supergroup Them Crooked Vultures with Dave Grohl and Josh Homme, further showcasing his adaptability and enduring relevance in the music industry . Despite his significant contributions to music, Jones has remained relatively private, focusing more on his craft than public recognition. In recent years, Jones's legacy has been highlighted in the 2025 documentary Becoming Led Zeppelin, which provides an in-depth look at the band's early years and Jones's pivotal role in their formation and success . His enduring influence continues to inspire musicians and fans worldwide, solidifying his status as a foundational figure in the history of rock music.
