Few names in entertainment are as synonymous with rock ‘n’ roll enthusiasm as Jack Black. Known for his unrelenting energy, comedic genius, and larger-than-life personality, Black has long been a vocal fan of the genre’s greatest icons. And when it comes to naming his all-time favorite band, there’s no hesitation in his voice—Led Zeppelin reigns supreme.
This deep admiration reached a legendary peak during the production of the 2003 cult classic film School of Rock, a movie that not only defined a generation of music-loving moviegoers but also introduced younger audiences to the soul of classic rock. At the center of the film was Black, playing Dewey Finn—a washed-up musician turned substitute teacher who transforms a group of private school students into a powerhouse rock band. But behind the laughs and electric guitar riffs was a genuine love letter to rock history, with Led Zeppelin’s music standing tall as its heartbeat.
There was just one problem: getting Led Zeppelin to agree to let the film use one of their songs, particularly the iconic “Immigrant Song.” Known for being fiercely protective of their catalog, Led Zeppelin rarely licensed their music for film and television. For Black and the team behind School of Rock, it was a high-stakes challenge—but one they tackled with humor, heart, and a whole lot of passion.
In a now-famous moment, Jack Black recorded a heartfelt and humorous plea directly to the band, hoping to sway their decision. Standing onstage in front of a live crowd during filming, Black turned to the camera and addressed the rock gods themselves: “Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones—the gods of rock. The greatest rock band of all time. We need your song, man. We need the ‘Immigrant Song’.”
With the energy only Jack Black could muster, he continued, “This is a movie about rock, and without that song, this movie will crumble into smithereens.” He then paused, smiling, and added, “Oh no, the movie’s kickass—but dude, your song would be a hard-rocking cherry on the top of the mountain!”
The result? Led Zeppelin gave their blessing.
The use of “Immigrant Song” in School of Rock became one of the movie’s most iconic moments—a thunderous explosion of sound that perfectly captured the spirit of rebellion, power, and musical freedom the film aimed to celebrate. Black’s tribute was more than a fan’s admiration; it was a genuine acknowledgment of the band’s influence on rock culture, film, and his own career.
To this day, Jack Black doesn’t hold back when asked about his musical heroes. In interviews and public appearances, he continues to refer to Led Zeppelin as the “best band ever,” often getting emotional when speaking about how their music inspired not just School of Rock, but his lifelong love affair with rock ‘n’ roll.
In an age where music legends are often celebrated posthumously, Black’s living tribute to Led Zeppelin stands out as an honest, passionate salute—one rocker paying homage to the gods that made him believe in the power of the riff.