According to an announcement from Redditch Borough Council, the much-anticipated immersive tribute to legendary Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham has been postponed. Originally set to take place from March 15 to 17, 2025, at Bonham’s bronze statue in the town center, the event has been delayed due to ongoing development work in the area.
In an official statement, the council explained the decision, citing logistical concerns and the need to ensure the best possible experience for attendees. “After careful consideration, the council, along with its partners at ReNew, has decided to postpone the John Bonham event, which was due to start this weekend. We plan to reschedule it sooner rather than later, allowing time for the current works in the town center to be completed,” the statement read. While the announcement may come as a disappointment to fans, the organizers have reassured the public that the event will be rescheduled as soon as conditions allow.
The tribute was designed by Rediscover North East Worcestershire (ReNEW), Birmingham Music Archive, and Birmingham Open Media, offering a unique experience that combined music, history, and technology. The highlight of the event was an interactive, motion-capture-based experience that would have brought Bonham’s drumming to life in a digital format. Through the use of augmented reality, visitors would have been able to scan a QR code at the John Bonham Memorial Statue and witness a digital recreation of Bonham performing some of his most iconic drum sequences. The planned setlist included classic Led Zeppelin tracks such as “Rock and Roll,” “Good Times, Bad Times,” and “Immigrant Song.”
Councillor Juliet Barker Smith, portfolio holder for leisure and culture, emphasized the significance of Bonham’s legacy, noting that he remains one of the most influential drummers in rock history. “John Bonham is revered by some of the greatest drummers across history, and his connection to Redditch is a matter of great pride,” she said. She also pointed out how Bonham’s impact extends far beyond Led Zeppelin, influencing legendary drummers such as Phil Collins, Stewart Copeland, and Dave Grohl.
While no new date has been set, the council has assured fans that updates will be provided as soon as a reschedule is finalised. The delay allows for the completion of the town center improvements, ensuring that the event can take place in an optimal setting. Organizers remain committed to delivering a high-quality tribute that does justice to Bonham’s legacy, and fans can expect the immersive experience to be worth the wait.
For now, Led Zeppelin fans and drumming enthusiasts will have to be patient, but the promise of a reimagined celebration of Bonham’s life and music remains intact. With technological innovation at its core, the event aims to be a fitting tribute to one of the greatest drummers in rock history.