Red Hot Chili Peppers Drummer Chad Smith 'Sounds Amazing' Playing Led Zeppelin Hit: 'John Bonham Would Be Proud'

Meredith GordonSun, March 29, 2026 at 11:31 AM UTC

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(Photo by Barry Brecheisen on Getty Images)

Legendary Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham’sspirit is alive and well thanks to Red Hot Chili Peppers’ powerhouse drummer Chad Smith. A social media clip of Chad Smith covering Bonham’s drums on Zeppelin’s debut track "Good Times Bad Times" is earning a stamp of approval from Led Zeppelin fans who say “John Bonham would be so proud.”

Chad Smith Covers "Good Times Bad Times"

In a social media video shared by Drumeo, Chad Smith can be seen taking on Bonham’s iconic performance in "Good Times Bad Times," the 1969 Led Zeppelin hit that quickly solidified Bonham as one of the greatest rock drummers of all time. Smith is considered one of rock’s most consistent, soulful drummers, often called the heartbeat of the Chili Peppers’ sound. Smith makes light work of Bonham’s innovative technique, leaving fans in awe.

“watch his foot on the triplets, so sick,” commented one drum aficionado. Another fan gushed, “As a huge Led Zep fan I can say you absolutely crushed this.”

“Dude, that was absolute perfection,” shared another. “Chad is freaking insane. Being a Led Zeppelin fan and hearing that song as many times in my life that I have, I could tell you I did not hear one bad note. John Bonham would be very happy with that, no doubt.”

Related: Rock's Golden God, 77, 'Sounds Perfect' As He Starts New Tour: 'Amazing How He's Kept His Voice'

John Bonham’s Lasting Influence

Often referred to as one of the greatest drummers in rock history, John Bonham’s performance on "Good Times Bad Times" is the stuff rock legends are made of. Known for his speed, power, and innovative technique, Bonham’s performance on "Good Times Bad Times" is celebrated by fans and rock critics alike for its rapid bass drum patterns, which Bonham achieved with a single pedal despite double bass pedals being the norm.

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Bonham’s skills on "Good Times Bad Times" are still considered the gold standard of technique 57 years after the song’s release. The opening track on Led Zeppelin’s debut album, Led Zeppelin, "Good Times Bad Times" became a benchmark for the band’s explosive sound, defined by Bonham’s innovations on the song.

Chad Smith’s Legacy in Rock

One of modern rock’s most revered drummers, Chad Smith joined the Red Hot Chili Peppers in 1988 and became a key force behind their fusion of rock, funk, and alternative music. Smith is known for his explosive energy, with a groove-heavy playing style that features a strong backbeat. Smith’s cover of "Good Times Bad Times" highlights his respect for rock history while reinforcing his own place as one of modern rock’s greats.

By ambitiously covering the song so associated with John Bonham’s artistry, Smith reinforces both his technical mastery and deep musical appreciation. His cover of "Good Times Bad Times" not only introduces the classic Zeppelin hit to generations of new audiences, but cements his place alongside John Bonham as one of the greatest rock drummers of all time.

Related: '70 Rock Legend Still Sounds 'Smooth As Silk' At Recent Festival Appearance

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This story was originally published by Parade on Mar 29, 2026, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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Source: “AOL Entertainment”