Greta Van Fleet: Did You Know?

Fun Facts & Untold Stories About Greta Van Fleet

Greta Van Fleet burst onto the rock scene with a sound that harkens back to the golden age of classic rock while bringing their unique energy and youthful vibe. Known for their soaring vocals, epic guitar riffs, and comparisons to Led Zeppelin, this band has quickly become one of the most talked-about rock acts of the last decade. But beyond the big headlines, there are some fun and lesser-known stories about this Michigan-based group. Let’s take a look at some of the coolest facts and untold stories about Greta Van Fleet!

1. The Band Name Has an Unlikely Origin

You might think that "Greta Van Fleet" is the name of some legendary rock icon, but it's actually named after a real person: Gretna Van Fleet, an elderly woman from the band’s hometown of Frankenmuth, Michigan. One of the band members heard her name while she was being discussed in a casual conversation, and it just stuck. Although Gretna initially had no idea what her name would become, she later gave her blessing to the band. She’s even attended a few of their shows, though she humorously admits that their music isn’t really her style.

2. Their First Big Break Came by Accident

In 2014, a Detroit-based Chevy dealership approached the band about using their music in a commercial. At the time, Greta Van Fleet was still relatively unknown, but they agreed. Their song "Standing On" appeared in the commercial, and while this wasn't a huge national exposure, it did generate some regional buzz that helped the band take their first steps toward bigger audiences. The band's break into the mainstream came when their song "Highway Tune" was used in the TV show Shameless, propelling them into the spotlight.

3. They Were Signed to a Major Label Before Graduating High School

Most young rock bands spend years trying to break into the industry, but Greta Van Fleet’s members signed their first major label deal with Lava Records in 2017—before some of them even finished high school! At the time, brothers Josh, Jake, and Sam Kiszka were still teenagers, with drummer Danny Wagner being their childhood friend. Their youthful energy, combined with their classic rock sound, helped them stand out in the modern music scene.

4. Jake Kiszka Learned Guitar from YouTube

Jake Kiszka, Greta Van Fleet’s lead guitarist, didn’t take the traditional route of formal guitar lessons. Instead, he learned to play largely by watching YouTube videos. Inspired by legendary guitarists like Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton, Jake honed his skills by studying their performances and riffs online, a true testament to the power of technology and passion for music. His signature guitar style, which features intricate solos and bluesy riffs, has quickly become one of the defining elements of the band’s sound.

5. They’ve Performed for Elton John

In 2018, the legendary Elton John personally invited Greta Van Fleet to perform at his annual Academy Awards viewing party. The young band took the stage and blew the audience away, which included a roster of A-list celebrities. After their set, Elton John praised the band for their energy and talent, telling them, “You guys are going to be huge.” Coming from a rock legend like Elton, that endorsement solidified their growing reputation.

6. The Band Lives Together on the Road

In an era when many bands travel with large entourages and separate tour buses, Greta Van Fleet prefers to keep things simple—and close-knit. They often travel together in one vehicle, enjoying a lifestyle that feels more like a close-knit family road trip than a massive rock tour. This tight bond extends beyond their music, helping them maintain a sense of camaraderie and focus while navigating the challenges of fame.

7. Josh Kiszka is a Nature Enthusiast

While his on-stage persona is electric, frontman Josh Kiszka has a quieter side. He's a huge fan of the outdoors and often spends his free time hiking, camping, and exploring nature. This love of nature also influences his lyrics, which often carry themes of the natural world, spirituality, and human connection. Songs like "Safari Song" and "Flower Power" reflect this naturalistic inspiration, bringing a timeless, organic quality to their music.

8. They Have a Strong Connection to Their Hometown

Although they’ve toured the world and played in some of the biggest venues, Greta Van Fleet’s roots are firmly planted in their hometown of Frankenmuth, Michigan. Known for its Bavarian-style architecture and strong German heritage, Frankenmuth is a small town, and the band’s members grew up listening to a mix of classic rock and blues that heavily influenced their sound. They often return home between tours to recharge and stay connected to their community.

9. They’re Often Compared to Led Zeppelin—but Don’t Embrace It

One of the first things people notice when they hear Greta Van Fleet is the striking resemblance between Josh Kiszka’s voice and Robert Plant’s iconic vocal style. Critics and fans alike have drawn comparisons between Greta Van Fleet and Led Zeppelin, calling them the next generation of classic rock. While the band respects Led Zeppelin’s influence, they’ve expressed a desire to carve out their own identity. In interviews, they’ve emphasized that while Led Zeppelin was an inspiration, their music is about more than just recreating the past.

10. “Highway Tune” was Written in 45 Minutes

One of Greta Van Fleet's most well-known tracks, "Highway Tune", was written and recorded in less than an hour. The song's infectious energy and raw rock-and-roll sound helped it soar to the top of the charts, but what makes it even more impressive is the fact that it came together so quickly. The band has said that the song was a natural outpouring of energy during a jam session, which explains its raw, unfiltered vibe.

Greta Van Fleet’s rise to fame has been rapid, but it’s clear that their blend of classic rock influence and youthful innovation has struck a chord with fans across the globe. From learning guitar on YouTube to performing for legends like Elton John, their story is a mix of old-school rock energy and modern-day DIY spirit. As they continue to grow, evolve, and create, Greta Van Fleet is a band with roots in the past, but their eyes set firmly on the future. One of Greta Van Fleet's most meaningful lyrics comes from their song "Age of Man":

"In an age of darkness, light appears, and it wards away the ancient fears."

This lyric captures the band's recurring themes of hope, enlightenment, and the potential for humanity to rise above its challenges. It speaks to the idea of seeking light and knowledge in times of confusion or hardship, a message that resonates with listeners on a spiritual and emotional level. It reflects the band's deep connection to nature, spirituality, and the human experience, offering a sense of optimism and possibility for the future.