Vanilla Fudge gave Led Zep direction

Vanilla Fudge mainman Mark Stein says he gave Led Zeppelin valuable advice when the rock icons were supporting his band in the 60s.

The group have just released covers album Spirit Of ’67 via Purple Pyramid Records, with bassist Pete Bremy joining original members Stein, drummer Carmine Appice and guitarist Vince Martell on the album

And while looking back at the late Sixties, Stein recalls Zeppelin supporting Vanilla Fudge – and he remembers having a few words of wisdom for the fledgling rockers.

He tells the Broward/Palm Beach New Times: “The first big tour we did was with Jimi Hendrix in 1968 and it was amazing. I got to hang out with Hendrix and to know him pretty well.

“When Led Zeppelin first came out in 1968, we broke them in. We headlined and they opened for us because we were label mates so we really got to know each other.”

He continues: “They were learning things from us. I remember telling Robert Plant to move around more and I suggested to Jimmy Page that he get some bigger amps. It may sound a bit condescending, but it’s a fact.

“Me and Carmine used to hang out with them all the time and party together. They told us they couldn’t wait to meet us.”

Spirit Of ’67 features 10 tracks originally recorded by artists including Procol Harum, the Monkees, the Doors, the Rolling Stones, Spencer Davis Group and Buffalo Springfield. The album also includes a new track titled Let’s Pray For Peace.

Tracklist

I Heard It Through The Grapevine 2. The Letter 3. I Can See For Miles 4. Break On Through (To The Other Side) 5. The Tracks Of My Tears 6. I’m A Believer 7. Gimme Some Lovin’ 8. For What It’s Worth 9. Ruby Tuesday 10. Whiter Shade Of Pale 11. Let’s Pray For Peace

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