The reason Zep grew so big and so beloved in the United States is because they toured relentlesly early on. The word spread quickly about this English band that was bombastic over the top hard hitting, and heavy riffed. The musicianship speaks for itself. The audience was blown away by Zeppelins live shows and concerts that grew to 3 hours plus. Of course by 73 the guys had become more showman like than ever and Jimmy had become an absolute rock-god. The boys were great and they knew it, their fans knew it and it was a beautiful give and take relationship. I don't know why Zep never grew to mythical proportions elsewhere in the world, but one thing is for sure. I am so glad to have had Led Zeppelin to love growing up and well into my adult life, that as an American I am more than happy to call Led Zeppelin Americas most beloved band.