Yoyoka Shook the Rock World with a Thunderous Led Zeppelin “Good Times Bad Times” Cover at Just 8 Years Old

When Yoyoka Soma uploaded her cover of Led Zeppelin’s “Good Times Bad Times” at the age of just 8, she likely had no idea how far it would go. The video, originally submitted for the Hit Like A Girl international drumming competition in 2018, was filmed in a modest room with a simple setup—but her talent needed no stage.

From the first kick of the bass drum, it was clear this wasn’t a typical child drumming video. Yoyoka displayed a deep understanding of rhythm, dynamics, and timing—elements that even seasoned drummers spend years perfecting. She breezed through the challenging bass drum triplets, famously executed by Led Zeppelin’s John Bonham, with remarkable precision and ease.

Her energy behind the kit was electric. With every fill, cymbal crash, and snare hit, she poured raw enthusiasm into the performance. She wasn’t just copying Bonham—she was channeling the spirit of rock through her own fearless expression. Her facial expressions and confident playing style showed she was completely immersed in the moment.

What shocked many viewers most wasn’t just the accuracy of the drumming—it was her groove. Bonham’s style was known for its powerful swing and explosive character, and somehow, this young girl from Japan managed to capture it all. She wasn’t merely mimicking a legend; she was honoring him with her own style.

Yoyoka’s passion for music began at just two years old. Born in Hokkaido, Japan, she was raised in a musical family. Her parents, both musicians, encouraged her early interest in rhythm, and she began performing live with them in their family band “Kaneaiyoyoka” by the age of four. Music wasn’t just a hobby—it was her environment.

When the video of her Zeppelin cover went viral, it quickly spread across social media platforms, music blogs, and even major news outlets. Musicians and fans alike were blown away. Within days, the performance had racked up millions of views and sparked admiration from some of rock’s biggest names.

Among those who praised her was Led Zeppelin’s own Robert Plant. In an interview, Plant mentioned he had seen the video and was incredibly impressed by the young drummer’s skill and energy. Coming from the frontman of the band whose song she covered, it was the ultimate validation of her talent.

Her appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show further catapulted her into the global spotlight. During her segment, she performed live and was gifted a drum kit and other musical equipment. Ellen’s audience, many of whom had never seen the viral video, were instantly won over by her charm and incredible talent.

Yoyoka’s journey didn’t stop there. She continued to release covers of classic rock songs by bands like Nirvana, Rage Against the Machine, Queen, and more. Each performance highlighted her growth as a drummer, both technically and emotionally. She didn’t just hit the right notes—she played with intention and feeling.

Her influences are diverse, ranging from Bonham and Dave Grohl to Sheila E. and Steve Gadd. She’s mentioned in interviews that she listens to all genres—from jazz and funk to heavy metal—and incorporates elements from each into her playing. That broad taste is part of what makes her such a dynamic performer.

One of her most striking qualities is her sense of musical maturity. Many young musicians focus solely on speed or flash, but Yoyoka seems to instinctively understand the importance of musicality. She listens, reacts, and plays with the song—not over it. It’s a quality even seasoned professionals struggle to master.

Despite her fame, she remains grounded and focused. She’s said her ultimate goal is not just to be a great drummer, but to bring joy to people through music. She often shares positive, hopeful messages with her fans and encourages other kids to follow their dreams, regardless of their age.

As her online following continues to grow, Yoyoka has become something of a global ambassador for youth in music. Her videos are now used by music teachers around the world to inspire students. Watching someone so young perform with such fire is a reminder of what pure love for music looks like.

The “Good Times Bad Times” cover, in many ways, was her breakout moment—but it was only the beginning. Since then, she’s participated in international festivals, performed with professional bands, and even started writing her own music. She’s not just replaying the past; she’s paving her own future in music.

In a world of digital noise and fleeting trends, Yoyoka’s story stands out because it’s built on real talent, hard work, and genuine passion. Her viral Zeppelin cover wasn’t a gimmick—it was a signal flare announcing the arrival of a once-in-a-generation musician. And judging by the path she’s on, the best is yet to come.