Led Zeppelin's self-titled debut album came out in 1969, and their distinct sound went on to influence a litany of future musicians. Ever since then, fans and critics have been searching for the “Next Led Zeppelin."

We're taking a look at some of the biggest artists who have been given that label in the below gallery.

Led Zeppelin's unprecedented blend of sexuality, swagger and technical skill, combined with their willingness to experiment while keeping their foundation in the blues, served as a template for hard rock bands to follow. It seemed simple enough: heavy riffs, thundering drums and a long-haired (preferably blond), leather-lunged frontman. But sometimes they got a little too close to the source material, and critics (and occasionally members of Led Zeppelin) took notice of the similarities.

As with the numerous singer-songwriters who were billed as the "Next Bob Dylan," being compared to Led Zeppelin had its advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, it was an easy descriptor of a band's sound that could pay off handsomely on the charts. But on the other, it could also be dismissive, because why does the world need another Led Zeppelin when we can always go back to the original?

Some have embraced the Zep comparisons as a compliment, while others have pushed back against the lofty expectations that come with it. While many have gone on to long and fruitful careers, none has come close to matching the classic rock band's lasting impact.

So is being called the "Next Led Zeppelin" a blessing or a curse? We'll let you decide.

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