Post Led Zeppelin Session Work and Film Scoring
After Led Zeppelin disbanded in 1980, John Paul Jones focused on studio and film work. He became a highly sought after session bassist and arranger, contributing to albums by artists such as R.E.M., The Mission, and Heart. He also composed scores for films including Scream 3 and the TV series Sit Down, Shut Up, and worked on the animated series The Simpsons, expanding his portfolio beyond rock music.
Jones also collaborated with film director Cameron Crowe on the soundtrack for Jerry Maguire, and contributed to scores for movies like The Good Son and The Twilight of the Golds. His session credits include work with artists like Cher, Ben E. King, and The Mission, and he has been credited on numerous film and television soundtracks, reinforcing his reputation as a versatile studio professional.
Solo Albums, Touring, and Collaborations
John Paul Jones released his debut solo album Zooma in 1999, followed by The Thunderthief in 2001. Both albums showcased his skills as a multi instrumentalist, featuring him on bass, keyboards, mandolin, and synthesizers. He toured under his own name, performing tracks from these albums and Led Zeppelin material, and collaborated with musicians such as Dave Grohl and Josh Homme on the 2010 album No Quarter: Jimmy Page and John Paul Jones Live at the Hammersmith Apollo.
In 2015, Jones released the album Sonic Acts, a collection of instrumental tracks recorded with collaborators including Dave Stewart and others. He continued to tour, including a 2019 tour with the band Them Crooked Vultures, and has remained active in the studio, with recent credits including work on film soundtracks and guest appearances. He has also been involved in projects with artists such as Rival Sons and the supergroup Them Crooked Vultures, maintaining a steady presence in the music industry.
Business Ventures, Investments, and Industry Roles
John Paul Jones has been involved in various business ventures related to music and entertainment. He has served as a board member and advisor for music organizations, and has participated in industry panels and events, including the NAMM Show and music technology conferences. He has also been involved in the development of music software and hardware, collaborating with companies such as Native Instruments and Avid, and has contributed to the design of bass instruments and effects pedals.
Jones has also been involved in the licensing and publishing side of the music industry, with his Led Zeppelin catalog managed by Warner Chappell Music. He has participated in digital distribution initiatives, including the release of Led Zeppelin remastered albums on streaming platforms, and has been involved in the development of immersive audio formats such as Dolby Atmos for music. He has also been a vocal advocate for artist rights and fair compensation in the digital age, participating in discussions and initiatives related to music copyright and streaming royalties.