Who Named John Bonham 'Thunderfingers'? Debunking the Myth
The nickname 'Thunderfingers' has often been associated with John Bonham, the legendary drummer of the rock band Led Zeppelin. However, a common misconception suggests that this name was bestowed upon John Entwistle, the bassist for the iconic rock band The Who. In this article, we will explore the truth behind this myth and learn about the true nicknames of these prominent music legends.
Unraveling the Myth: Entwistle's Nickname
It is a widely held belief that John Entwistle, the virtuoso bassist of The Who, was given the nickname 'Thunderfingers.' This incorrect attribution has...
Going back to the origins of the term, it was actually John Bonham, the powerhouse drummer of Led Zeppelin, who was more commonly known by the moniker 'Thunderfingers.' This nickname was a playful reference to his drumming style and the thunderous sound he produced during live performances.
John Bonham: Thunderfingers
John Bonham (10 December 1948 – 25 September 1980) was the drummer for Led Zeppelin, as well as other projects. He was renowned for his incredible stamina, speed, and thunderous sound. His nickname, 'Thunderfingers,' was a nod to these qualities. It is said that he could pack a punch with each of his drumsticks, giving off an intense and electrifying performance that left audiences enthralled. Bonham's drumming style was known to be particularly aggressive and energetic, making 'Thunderfingers' an apt and fitting nickname for him.
John Entwistle: The Ox
While Bonham earned the epithet 'Thunderfingers,' John Entwistle, the bassist for The Who, was more commonly known by a different nickname: 'The Ox.' This name was derived from his prodigious playing and the stamina he demonstrated on stage. Entwistle was known to be a tireless performer who could play for hours without showing any signs of wear and tear. His fingers would race up and down the fretboard with astonishing speed, much like the oxen of old, rendering him the nickname 'The Ox.'
The Who - An Intricate History of Talent and Independence
The Who, a rock band formed in London in 1964, has etched its name into the annals of rock history. Unlike Led Zeppelin, The Who did not give Entwistle the nickname 'Thunderfingers,' as some might believe. John Entwistle earned his sobriquet based on his exceptional playing and performative prowess. Entwistle was a member of The Who, a group known for its outlandish and often explosive shows.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to debunk the myth that John Entwistle was known as 'Thunderfingers.' The correct nickname belongs to John Bonham of Led Zeppelin. Entwistle, on the other hand, earned the informal title 'The Ox' due to his stamina and the remarkable speed with which he played the bass. Understanding these differences not only helps in clearing up misconceptions but also enhances our appreciation of these remarkable musicians and their individual styles.