There is no way I would play guitar like a tour de force like I did in Led Zeppelin. John Bonham, phenomenal drummer, young man with his technique, but do you think he would ever have the opportunity to play like that in another band? Of course he hadn't.

I do really believe that all guitarists have a different character that comes through, that's a strong character, the stronger the person is.

I don't like being stuck in one situation, day to day.

I suggested back in 1980 to do a chronological live album, but there wasn't that much enthusiasm for it.

I can listen to all different sorts of music. I don't really care about The Next Big Thing.

There's a very old recording maxim that goes, 'Distance makes depth.' I've used that a hell of a lot-whether it's tracking guitars or the whole band. People are used to close-miking amps, but I'd have a mic out around the back, as well, and then balance the two. Also, you shouldn't have to use EQ in the studio if the instruments sound right. You should be able to get the right tones simply with the science of microphone placement.

There's a certain standard in classical music that allows the application of the term "genius," but you're treading on thin ice if you start applying it to rock & rollers.