VIDEO: Led Zeppelin Honored With Tribute At Kennedy Center

There was a “Whole Lotta Love” being thrown Led Zeppelin’s way on Dec. 2. The band, comprised of lead singer Robert Plant (pictured), 64, guitarist Jimmy Page, 68, and bassist/keyboardist John Paul Jones, 66, was feted at the gala Kennedy Center Honors in Washington D.C. in early December for their contributions to American popular culture, but the event did not air until Wednesday night on CBS.

"These guys redefined the rock-and-roll lifestyle," President Barack Obama said in praising the legendary rockers, prompting a few laughs from the audience. "We do not have video of this, but there were some hotel rooms trashed and mayhem all around. So it's fitting that we're doing this in a room with windows that are 3 inches thick— and Secret Service all around. So, guys, just settle down."

Among those to pay homage to the band were Ann and Nancy Wilson, better known as the 70’s rock band Heart. They played “Stairway to Heaven” and drumming with the two was Jason Bonham, the son of the late Zeppelin drummer John Bonham, who died in 1980. The performance was so moving Plant shed a few tears.

"The jams of Led Zeppelin are second to none," exclaimed presenter Jack Black. "Just ask anyone, from Oliver Stone to Paul Ryan and everyone in between! They sang songs about love, about Vikings, about Vikings making love. You know, they say Led Zeppelin sold their souls to Satan. Come on, guys, you know you did. There's no other way to explain your ungodly talents!"

Watch Obama's speech here: