WHEN you are the sister of a rock legend it can be tough proving yourself in the music world.

Deborah Bonham, sister of the late John Bonham, drummer with Led Zeppelin, has won the respect of her brother’s peers and made her own mark in the industry simply by working hard and being true to herself.

In fact the singer’s first demos were sent anonymously, so any recognition would be through her own merit not the fame of her brother.

Today Deborah is a name to be reckoned with in the rock world and she will be bringing her band to Swindon on Friday, September 29 at The Vic, in Victoria Road in Old Town from 8pm.

Earlier this year Deborah took part in the Free Spirit tour backing Paul Rodgers, lead singer with The Firm. Deborah opened the shows with Nigel Kennedy and former Robert Plant guitarist Doug Boyle.

Robert Plant was a huge influence on Deborah growing up on the family estate alongside John’s son Jason Bonham. The Led Zeppelin singer lent his guiding hand to both their first forays into recording.

Deborah was only six when John had teamed up with Robert and guitarist Jimmy Page to form the trio that would become the rock giants of an era.

Today her band is made up of some pretty strong heavyweights in the rock blues genre, including musicians from Black Sabbath, Steve Marriott and Rory Gallagher bands.

Deborah has also shared the stage with Foreigner at the London Palladium Show, she was invited back for an encore duet.

She has also worked alongside Van Halen, Humble Pie, Donovan, Jools Holland and Lonnie Donegan.

Playing the London Blues Week at the 100 Club in January this year gave Deborah a series of sell-out shows.

In France she is nicknamed Princess of Rock and recently she had Robert Plant as special guest on her album called Spirit, and he was the surprise guest at one of her shows when he joined her on stage to sing Zeppelin’s When The Levee Breaks.

When she comes to Swindon, Deborah’s special guest is Jo Burt.

Jo is an English songwriter, storyteller, singer and guitar player possibly best known for his history working with musical legends such as Freddie Mercury, The Troggs and Black Sabbath.

Tickets are £10 in advance and £12 on the door. For more details visit www.thevicswindon.com.