On this day in 1976, Led Zeppelin release their documentary film, The Song Remains the Same

The film, primarily a concert movie, was filmed over three nights in the summer of 1973, all at Madison Square Garden in New York. Some additional footage was added that had been shot at Shepperton Studios and a soundtrack album of the same name was also released.

Plans had been discussed to film a Led Zeppelin concert as early as 1969, with their manager Peter Grant set on film rather than television due to the subpar sound quality of the latter. An attempt was made in 1970 but the group was unsatisfied with the recording, stating it seemed dated.

The film also featured footage of Peter Grant being driven to a police station to answer questions about the infamous theft of the takings from the band’s safe deposit box at the Drake Hotel, giving fans a behind the scenes look at the notorious incident. 

The film’s release opened at Cinema I in New York before reaching Beverley Hills the next day and London two weeks later. Critics were divided on the release while fans were more receptive. The release has kept its popularity with fans and has had two subsequent DVD releases.