5 Things to Know About Led Zeppelin’s Swan Song Label

Swan Song was Led Zeppelin’s own record label, launched in 1974. The band started it to gain full control over their music, artwork, and artist signings, after growing tired of Atlantic Records’ interference.

The label’s first album was Physical Graffiti, released in 1975. This double album was the first full-length release on Swan Song, with Atlantic handling distribution.

The first single on Swan Song was “Down by the Seaside.” It preceded the album’s release, marking the label’s debut in the singles market.

Swan Song was an imprint, not a fully independent label. Atlantic Records distributed the label’s releases, giving Zeppelin creative freedom while leveraging Atlantic’s infrastructure.

The label signed other artists, not just Led Zeppelin. Swan Song released albums by bands like Bad Company, The Pretty Things, and Maggie Bell, though Zeppelin remained its flagship act.