Now and Zen cover

Now and Zen

Robert Plant · 1988

47 min · 10 tracks · folk rock · hard rock · heavy metal

A blend of bluesy rock anthems and introspective ballads wrapped in lush production and Plant's distinct vocal style.

Why this album works

Best for
steady mid-tempo listening experience reflective moments of introspection uplifting anthems for celebration
Context
Released on February 29, 1988, 'Now and Zen' marked Robert Plant's third solo album, following the commercial success of 'Shaken 'n' Stirred' in 1985. At this point in his career, Plant was transitioning from the experimental sounds of the early '80s to a more mainstream rock approach, collaborating closely with producer David A. Stewart, known for crafting radio-friendly hits.
If you like
folk rock, hard rock, heavy metal

Now and Zen is an album by Robert Plant, released in 1988. A blend of bluesy rock anthems and introspective ballads wrapped in lush production and Plant's distinct vocal style. This album is significant for its commercial success, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard 200 chart and spawning the hit single 'Heaven Knows,' which peaked at No. 40 on the Hot 100. Its polished production and radio-friendly sound helped Plant solidify his identity as a solo artist post-Led Zeppelin, influencing a generation of rock musicians. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Now and Zen sound like?

A blend of bluesy rock anthems and introspective ballads wrapped in lush production and Plant's distinct vocal style. Rooted in folk rock and hard rock.

What makes Now and Zen by Robert Plant notable?

This album is significant for its commercial success, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard 200 chart and spawning the hit single 'Heaven Knows,' which peaked at No. 40 on the Hot 100. Its polished production and radio-friendly sound helped Plant solidify his identity as a solo artist post-Led Zeppelin, influencing a generation of rock musicians. Released on February 29, 1988, 'Now and Zen' marked Robert Plant's third solo album, following the commercial success of 'Shaken 'n' Stirred' in 1985. At this point in his career, Plant was transitioning from the experimental sounds of the early '80s to a more mainstream rock approach, collaborating closely with producer David A. Stewart, known for crafting radio-friendly hits.

Who is Now and Zen for?

Now and Zen works well if you're into steady mid-tempo listening experience, reflective moments of introspection and uplifting anthems for celebration.

How many songs are on Now and Zen?

Now and Zen has 10 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Tracklist

10 tracks·47:03

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Heaven Knows Standout 4:06
  • 2 Dance on My Own 4:30
  • 3 Tall Cool One Standout 4:40
  • 4 The Way I Feel 5:40
  • 5 Helen of Troy 5:06
  • 6 Billy's Revenge 3:34
  • 7 Ship of Fools Standout 5:01
  • 8 Why 4:14
  • 9 White, Clean and Neat 5:28
  • 10 Walking Towards Paradise 4:40

Release Date

February 29, 1988

Genre

folk rock, hard rock, heavy metal

More albums in folk rock

Artist Origin

United Kingdom

Runtime

47 min 3 sec