Playing For Change (with John Paul Jones): When The Levee Breaks

Playing For Change released a stunning new video a few days ago, and this one features the mighty John Paul Jones on a song he originally recorded over 50 years ago.

“‘When The Levee Breaks’ is a powerful, thought-provoking and emotionally-charged classic by Led Zeppelin, from their ‘Led Zeppelin IV’ album. The song is a rework of the 1929 original release by Kansas Joe Mccoy and Memphis Minnie about the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927; the most destructive river flooding in U.S. history,” the organization wrote.

“It seems that little has changed since 1927, or even 2005 with Katrina. It’s still a really powerful track, both musically and lyrically,” added JPJ.

In an e-mail interview with Rolling Stone, Jones said the decision to get involved was easy. “It’s a great cause, and I really liked what [Playing For Change’s] Sebastian [Robertson] and the team are doing,” he says. “The videos are all so well put together, and a joy to watch.”

More than 20 musicians and dancers from around the world contributed to this incredible performance (and equally stunning video), including Stephen Perkins, Susan Tedeschi, and Derek Trucks.

Here’s the complete artist lineup:

• Alfredo Arce: Siku Flute
• Ben Lee: Harmonica
• Buffalo Nichols: Vocals, Guitar
• Davey Chegwidden: Dundun Drums
• Derek Trucks: Slide Guitar
• Drums of the Pacific: Dancing, Log Drums
• Elle Márjá Eira: Vocals
• Jason Tamba: Banjo
• John Paul Jones: Bass
• Keith Secola: Slide Guitar
• Mermans Mosengo: Harmonica
• Mihirangi: Vocals
• Nakeiltha Campbell: Dundun Drums
• Pete Sands: Acoustic Guitar
• Sebastian Robertson: Electric Guitar
• Sikiru Adepoju: Talking Drum
• Susan Tedeschi: Vocals
• Stephen Perkins: Drums

Learn more about Playing For Change.