Remembering Keith Moon: The Who Drummer Guests With Led Zeppelin In 1977

One of rock’s greatest drummers, Keith Moon, died at the way-too-young age of 32 on this date in 1978. Moon was battling an addiction to alcohol and was prescribed Heminevrin, a drug that was supposed to help him when he felt urges to drink. On September 7, 1978, the day after attending a party thrown by Paul McCartney in honor of The Buddy Holly Story, Keith took 32 of the 100 pills he was prescribed. This massive overdose led to his death. The Who drummer’s last on-stage appearance in America came not with his main band but as a guest appearance with Led Zeppelin.

In late June of 1977 Led Zeppelin played a sold-out, six-show run at The Forum in Los Angeles. Moon, who purportedly gave Led Zeppelin their name, emerged during the band’s set in L.A. on June 23, 1977. Keith played one large drum and a tambourine as part of “Moby Dick.”

The drummer appeared drunk and at one point took to the mic and starts spouting about the true meaning of rock and roll while Robert Plant played John Bonham’s kit. Keith Moon’s lone on-stage appearance with Led Zeppelin ended with an incredibly quick encore of “Whole Lotta Love” and “Rock & Roll.” Not only would Moon pass away just over a year later, but John Bonham died in 1980.

Watch rare footage from the gig including a portion of Moon’s sit-in:

Here’s film of Moon taking the mic, while Robert Plant plays drums:

Listen to an audience recording of the whole show:

Setlist