Rockmount Ranch Wear, the historic snap-front shirt maker at 1626 Wazee, is no stranger to the rich and famous. It’s distinctive Western shirts have been immortalized in movies and on the backs of rock stars.
Steve Weil, Rockmount’s third generation owner, has met more than his share of stars, but he can’t resist getting in touch with his inner groupie when someone special walks in the door.
On Friday, Weil was driving home from work when an employee called to say that rocker Robert Plant, of Led Zeppelin fame, was in the store. Weil spun the car around and headed back.
“No mistaking the smiling man with the lion’s mane,” Weil said. “His first words: ‘I am so excited to be here!’ That made it easy for (us) mere mortals to walk over and introduce ourselves.
“He was like a kid in a candy store … He tried on several shirts and a leather jacket and took each one to the counter. We talked about history and literature. His prose and manner was nothing like other rock stars and celebrities we have met. This man is a gentleman – amusing and without pretense.
“He said he had been coming to Denver for over 40 years, and how it had matured well … He said he played here on Dec. 26, 1968. I asked, ‘How could you remember the date?’ He said, ‘Because it was my opening concert on my first U.S. tour.’ Led Zeppelin started the tour as opening act for Vanilla Fudge and Iron Butterfly.”
Plant invited the Rockmount folks to Saturday’s concert at the Fillmore Auditorium.
“It’s a rare moment to meet someone famous and successful — particularly a rock star — who remains, friendly, gracious and grounded,” Weil said.
Robert Plant, right, with Rockmount Ranch Wear owner Steve Weil. (Rockmount Ranch Wear photo)
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