When it comes to timeless rock music, Led Zeppelin stands as an immortal pillar, having crafted a remarkable legacy that continues to resonate with music enthusiasts across generations. One fascinating aspect of this iconic band is the perennial question: What are Led Zeppelin’s favorite Led Zeppelin songs?
Across eight studio albums, Led Zeppelin produced a plethora of songs that may all be contenders for Plant’s favorite. If you ask any Led Zeppelin fan which song means the most to them, you’ll receive a different answer every time. That’s not only what you’d expect any true musician to say, but it also speaks well of the band’s dynamic variety in their work.
The four-piece, which formed in 1968 after Robert’s explosive skill saw him go in quest of a new band after The Yardbirds fell apart, caused waves and made Page’s prior triumph appear like a mote of dust in contrast.
The quartet, which included Plant, Bonham, and Jones, got their name from Keith Moon, who predicted that their new band would go down like “a lead balloon.”
The trio was swiftly signed as part of Atlantic Records’ increasing roster of rock groups, which quickly became the trendiest place to be in the music industry. The band traveled nonstop and developed the concept of a rock concert like no other band before them. The group’s touring itinerary demonstrated a vision of the future and laid the groundwork for most current rock concerts as we know them today.
In this comprehensive article, we delve into the preferences of the legendary members themselves, Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones. These insights not only shed light on their connections to the music but also offer a unique perspective on the band’s artistic journey.
Robert Plant’s Favorite Led Zeppelin Song: “Kashmir”
Undoubtedly, Robert Plant’s choice for his favorite Led Zeppelin song is a testament to the band’s prowess in creating musical masterpieces. His pick, the monumental “Kashmir,” hails from the 1975 album “Physical Graffiti.” In an interview with Rolling Stone, Plant openly expressed his admiration for the track, stating, “It’s one of my favorites… that, ‘All My Love,’ and ‘In the Light,’ and two or three others were the finest moments.”
The genesis of “Kashmir” is as intriguing as the song itself. Originally titled ‘Driving to Kashmir,’ Plant and Jimmy Page drew inspiration for this epic piece from their travels down the Moroccan Atlantic coast, a journey that mirrored the experiences of countless fellow hippies during that era.
In a 2018 interview with Dan Rather, Plant further unraveled the nuances of “Kashmir,” highlighting its uniqueness: “It was a great achievement to take such a monstrously dramatic musical piece and find a lyric that was ambiguous enough, and a delivery that was not over-pumped.”
Jimmy Page’s Favorite Led Zeppelin Song: Also “Kashmir”
In perfect harmony with Robert Plant, Jimmy Page joins the chorus in favor of “Kashmir” as his favorite Led Zeppelin song. According to Page, this track embodies the pinnacle of Led Zeppelin’s musical prowess, housing what he considers the greatest Led Zeppelin riff.
While acknowledging that every Led Zeppelin track was special in its own right, Page emphasized the significance of “Kashmir.” He expressed, “It’s difficult to be asked, ‘What’s your favorite Zeppelin track?’ They all were. They were all intended to be on those albums.” However, Page ultimately declared, “I suppose ‘Kashmir’ has to be the one.”
Page’s fondness for the song goes beyond the guitar riffs; it encompasses the orchestration that adds depth and grandeur to “Kashmir.” To him, the song represents a fusion of rock and symphony, where the orchestra complements the guitars with a symphonic flourish.
He said, “I just know that [Bonham] is gonna love it, and he loves it, and we just play the riff over and over and over because it’s like a child’s riff.”
John Paul Jones’ Favorite Led Zeppelin Songs: A Multifaceted Selection
John Paul Jones, renowned for his versatile musical contributions to Led Zeppelin, offers a diverse selection of his favorite songs from the band’s repertoire. While acknowledging the iconic status of “Stairway To Heaven,” Jones also highlights the brilliance of “Kashmir,” once again emphasizing its grandeur and theatrical quality.
In addition to these classics, Jones shares his admiration for “When The Levee Breaks.” He aptly describes the song’s atmosphere as amazing, reflecting the band’s ability to create a mesmerizing sonic landscape that transcends time.
Another gem in Jones’ list of favorites is “What Is and What Should Never Be.” He singles out the magical moment when the rhythm section and drums seamlessly come together, creating a gear-shifting musical experience that captivates the listener.
Led Zeppelin’s Lasting Legacy
As we explore the favorite songs of Led Zeppelin’s members, it becomes evident that the band’s legacy is not merely a result of their collective genius but also a testament to their ability to craft music that resonates on a deeply personal level. “Kashmir,” a song that all three members cherish, stands as a symbol of their musical journey—an epic odyssey that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
Led Zeppelin’s catalog is a treasure trove of musical gems, each track bearing the indelible mark of their artistic excellence. Whether it’s the timeless allure of “Stairway To Heaven,” the grandeur of “Kashmir,” or the magical moments within “When The Levee Breaks” and “What Is and What Should Never Be,” Led Zeppelin’s music remains a timeless testament to the power of rock ‘n’ roll.
In conclusion, the preferences of Led Zeppelin’s members provide valuable insights into the emotional and artistic connections they have with their music. These favorites not only showcase the band’s versatility but also serve as a gateway for fans to delve deeper into the rich tapestry of Led Zeppelin’s musical legacy.