The Tour Bus Ride Where John Paul Jones Wrote The Keyboard Intro To “Trampled Under Foot”

April 1, 2025

The tour bus rocked gently as it cruised down the highway, the thrum of the engine a steady heartbeat amidst the laughter and chatter of musicians inside. John Paul Jones, the talented keyboardist of Led Zeppelin, sat quietly in his seat, staring out at the blur of trees and fields rushing past the window. It was 1974, and the band was in the thick of their whirlwind North American tour. They had performed for thousands of fans, yet there was always a part of him that yearned for something more, something that would elevate their music to a new level. Little did he know that the spark of that inspiration was about to ignite on that very bus ride.

The journey felt endless, and John Paul could feel the weight of exhaustion settling on his shoulders. He had spent countless days and nights practicing, searching for the perfect sound that would resonate with the heart of their audience. Suddenly, an idea flickered in his mind like a candle in the dark. He envisioned a vibrant keyboard intro that could pulse with energy and life, a sound that would get people moving on the dance floor. As he closed his eyes, the notes began to dance in his head, weaving together in a beautiful melody. The excitement bubbled inside him, and he quickly grabbed a notepad and pencil, jotting down the music as fast as he could.

With every note he scribbled, John Paul felt a sense of liberation. This was more than just music; it was a piece of his soul. The other band members, curious about his intense focus, leaned in to listen. As he played the melody on his portable keyboard, the bus came alive with discussion and encouragement. They couldn’t help but get swept up in the positivity. It was a testament to their camaraderie as a band – how they inspired each other to reach new heights. The energy inside the bus was electric, and it felt like a collective heartbeat, pushing them all toward greatness.

When they finally hit the stage to perform “Trampled Under Foot” for the first time, John Paul’s heart raced with anticipation. He had transformed that simple idea born on the tour bus into an unforgettable introduction that would resonate with their fans. As the first notes echoed through the venue, the crowd erupted in cheers. The raw power of the music reverberated through the audience, and John Paul felt an overwhelming sense of pride. This wasn’t just about the notes; it was about the journey they had taken together, the struggles and the triumphs, and the passion that brought them to this moment.

The success of “Trampled Under Foot” became a defining moment in Led Zeppelin’s career, showcasing their blend of hard rock and funk. John Paul’s relentless pursuit of innovation pushed the boundaries of their sound, encouraging other musicians to do the same. The song became an anthem of resilience, a reminder that inspiration can strike at any moment, even during a long bus ride. For John Paul, it was a celebration of creativity and the unbreakable bond of the band, proving that no matter how tough the road may be, passion and collaboration can lead to extraordinary things.

Reflecting on that tour bus ride years later, John Paul smiled at the memories. It wasn’t just about writing a memorable song; it was about the friendships forged and the joy of creating something beautiful. Every time he played that iconic intro, he was reminded of that moment of inspiration and excitement. It was a testament to the power of music—the way it could transform a simple idea into something magical—and it motivated him to continue making music that resonated with people’s hearts, a passion that would last a lifetime.