Even with thousands of songs on my I Pod and in my I Tunes library, I still find myself searching…searching for that perfect song to download. Often times, I don’t even know what I’m looking for. There is too much…and to many good bands, albums and songs to choose from. If you have the same problem, perhaps my blog can help. Each blog, I will feature one album and my favorite three songs from that album. My goal: help you create the perfect playlist. Enjoy.
Artist: Led Zeppelin
Album: Led Zeppelin IV
Release: November, 1971
CLICK HERE to sample the album.
Brief History:
In their fourth album, aptly titled Led Zeppelin IV, a song was released that seemingly changed Rock n’ Roll. The song was Stairway to Heaven. The sound was Plant and Page. The two wrote the song fireside in an old county house in Hampshire.
Jimmy Page’s godlike manipulation of a guitar, complimented by Robert Plant’s instrumental voice, created a sound that defined 1970’s Rock n’ Roll. On Led Zeppelin IV, you hear the true depth of the band. It features heavier rock songs (Black Dog) as well as the lighter side of Zeppelin (Going to California).
In my opinion, this album is a collection of their best work. A true highway companion. Take away Stairway to Heaven, and you still have an album that is worth its weight in gold.
Fun Fact:
Jimmy Page was originally part of the Yardbirds. He broke apart from the band and later formed Led Zeppelin. He also produced Led Zeppelin’s albums.
The bands drummer, John Bonham, was a Wings fan. He even followed The Wings (as a fan) during one of their American tours.
Top 3 Songs:
1. Stairway to Heaven
2. Going to California
3. Misty Mountain Hop
Honorable Mentions:
This album is filled to the brim with classics. Black Dog is the perfect opening song and really sets the tone for the rest of the album. I also have to give honorable mention to Rock and Roll. Sadly, it has become some what commercial, but at least the song’s brilliance lives on.
Complete Song List:
1. Black Dog
2. Rock and Roll
3. The Battle of Evermore
4. Stairway to Heaven
5. Misty Mountain Hop
6. Four Sticks
7. Going to California
8. When the Levee Breaks
