A new tribute to Led Zeppelin’s legendary drummer John Bonham has been unveiled in his hometown of Redditch, Worcestershire, marking what would have been his 77th birthday. The bronze statue, originally installed in 2018 to commemorate Bonham’s 70th birthday, now features an immersive digital experience that brings the iconic musician to life through augmented reality.
Visitors can scan a QR code at the statue to activate a motion-captured animation of Bonham performing classic Led Zeppelin tracks such as “Rock and Roll,” “Good Times, Bad Times,” and “Immigrant Song.” The performance was recreated by local drummer Matt Green, who was filmed using motion capture technology to emulate Bonham’s distinctive drumming style. The resulting animation synchronizes Green’s movements with a digital avatar of Bonham in his signature 1970s pose .
This innovative tribute, developed in collaboration with Rediscover North East Worcestershire (ReNEW), Birmingham Music Archive, and Birmingham Open Media, aims to celebrate Bonham’s enduring influence on rock music. The statue, located in Mercian Square, is believed to be the only one of its kind dedicated to a drummer, making it a unique landmark for music enthusiasts .
In addition to the augmented reality experience, Redditch Library is showcasing a special collection of John Bonham materials from its archives, offering visitors a deeper insight into the drummer’s life and legacy. The immersive tribute is part of a broader initiative to honor Bonham’s contributions to music and to highlight Redditch’s cultural heritage .
John Bonham, renowned for his powerful and innovative drumming, remains a towering figure in rock history. His work with Led Zeppelin continues to inspire musicians worldwide, and this latest tribute ensures that his legacy endures for future generations.
