Jason Bonham, the son of the legendary drummer John Bonham from Led Zeppelin, has forged his own path in the music world while proudly honoring his father’s legacy.
Born on July 15, 1966, in England, Jason showed his passion for music from a very young age, picking up the drums at just five years old. His father often awakened him at night to perform in front of friends, a moment Jason fondly recalls. After the sudden passing of John Bonham in 1980, Jason committed himself to drumming, leaving behind motocross racing to honor his father’s memory.
Over the years, Jason has collaborated with various artists and bands, including Foreigner and Sammy Hagar. He even took part in reunion shows with Led Zeppelin, connecting with the band’s rich history. To further celebrate his father’s contribution to music, Jason created a tribute band known as Jason Bonham’s Led Zeppelin Evening.
Jason has openly embraced the legacy of his father, recognizing the influence John had on countless drummers globally. He expressed pride in hearing fans compare his playing to his father’s, describing it as the greatest compliment one could receive.
Growing up in Cutnall Green, Worcestershire, Jason lived in a modest setting, stating that despite his father’s fame, they were just an ordinary family. Memories of his childhood involve playing music at family gatherings, including time spent with members of rock icons such as The Beatles.
Tragedy struck when Jason was only 14 years old; his father died unexpectedly. This loss deeply affected him, driving him to emulate John’s musical spirit while navigating the pressures of being the son of a rock legend. Despite the challenges, Jason found solace in music, dedicating his life to it.
Jason’s journey as a musician is marked by numerous collaborations, including early experiences in bands like Air Race and Bonham. He later formed his own band, releasing albums and performing widely, demonstrating his musical talents while continuously paying respect to his father’s legacy.
Moreover, life as a family man seems important to Jason. He has been married to Jan Charteris for over three decades and they have two adult children, Jaz and Jager, both of whom have ventured into their own artistic pursuits. Jason believes in upholding strong family values, often emphasizing the importance of education for his children over a rock-and-roll lifestyle.
Aside from music, Jason’s love for motocross remains strong. He began racing at a young age and even contemplated pursuing it professionally. After his father’s death, he shifted focus to music but returned to dirt biking, particularly after getting sober in the early 2000s.
As both a musician and a dedicated family man, Jason Bonham continues to honor his father’s extraordinary legacy while navigating his own path in the music industry, showcasing his deep-rooted passion and commitment to honoring the family name.
