A couple of years ago, I spoke at a conference at Walt Disney World, and taking advantage of the free passes given to speakers, I head over to the MGM park to try out the Aerosmith Rock N' Rollercoaster. Now, I'm a big fan of Aerosmith, and admit the coaster was a blast, but other than the waiting-in-line preamble, the ride really had nothing to do with the band.
Cut to Led Zeppelin--the Ride, which has got to be the star attraction of the currently-in-preview but soon-to-open Hard Rock Park in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. With six loops, a top speed of 65 miles per hour (!!!) and climbing 15 stories high, this coaster's about as unpredictable and wild as John "Bonzo" Bonham after a long-weekend bender. That's it below.
But what makes the ride truly Pow!erful is the way it's action is actually choreographed to the tune "Whole Lotta Love." Like the seats at The Beatles' Love show in Vegas, each coaster car is equipped with a sound system that blasts the song through you. Sounds nuts, and rock 'n' roll purists are spinning in their graves, but if the "simulation video" (no direct link; go to the Rides link on the site's main page and click on Led Zep) is any indication, this could be the start of whole new way to experience music.
No matter what, after seeing the vid/riding the ride, you'll never hear the line "Way down inside, woman, you need...Looohhhvvvvve!" the same way again.
Coming soon to the Hard Rock Park: Marilyn Manson--The Dark Ride, Elton John--The Merry-Go-Round, The Eagles--The Massage Chair and Elvis--The Snack Bar.