Engaging in a conversation with a devout Led Zeppelin enthusiast about their least favorite song from the iconic band is akin to questioning the existence of mythical creatures. For these ardent fans, the concept of a subpar Led Zeppelin track is as elusive as a unicorn. Yet, despite their indomitable influence on rock music and enduring legacy, the quartet of Robert Plant, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones, and John Bonham harbored their reservations about certain compositions.
Led Zeppelin’s stellar reputation is well-deserved. Each member, a virtuoso in their own right, brought a profound passion for sound and songwriting, fostering a collaborative environment that birthed a cohesive sonic identity. Their discography stands as a testament to artistic expression rather than a mere collection of songs hastily assembled. However, like any musical journey, Led Zeppelin’s trajectory wasn’t without its missteps, at least in the eyes of the creators.
Divergent preferences among the band members led to a selection of tracks that failed to resonate with them individually. Sometimes, it was a matter of taste, while in other instances, personal circumstances surrounding the creation tainted their perception of the art.
Jimmy Page, for instance, held a disdain for the track ‘Living Loving Maid,’ a seemingly fleeting number buried in the heart of Led Zeppelin II. Despite its appeal to fans with its captivating main riff and solo, Page’s indifference stemmed from its hasty creation and inclusion as filler, a song he never found excitement in, evident in its absence from live performances.
In contrast, John Bonham’s aversion was directed at ‘D’yer Mak’er.’ His distaste wasn’t rooted in the song’s musical quality but rather in the fact that it required him to delve into a musical style, reggae, for which he had no affinity. A testament to his prowess as a drummer, but a burden for Bonham who detested the rhythm section and the genre adaptation.
John Paul Jones took issue with ‘Royal Orleans,’ deeming the track homophobic due to Robert Plant’s lyrical choices. While acknowledging the instrumental brilliance, Jones could not overlook the discomfort arising from Plant’s playful narration of a man mistakenly ending up with a cross-dresser.
Surprisingly, Robert Plant himself fell out of love with one of the band’s most iconic songs, ‘Stairway to Heaven.’ A tumultuous period in Plant’s life, marked by a near-fatal car crash, the loss of his son, and the death of close friend John Bonham, altered his perspective on the song’s optimistic lyrics. Unable to connect with the track during solo performances, Plant’s emotional reconciliation with ‘Stairway to Heaven’ occurred only while watching a rendition at the Kennedy Center Honors, a moment that moved him to tears.
Led Zeppelin’s least favorite songs, a revelation that adds nuance to their illustrious career:
– Jimmy Page – ‘Living Loving Maid’
– John Bonham – ‘D’yer Mak’er’
– John Paul Jones – ‘Royal Orleans’
– Robert Plant – ‘Stairway to Heaven’
