Led Zeppelin’s “Kashmir”: Why This Epic Still Resonates Today
Although Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” often takes the crown as their most famous song, some argue it isn’t their best. Vulture recently ranked all of Led Zeppelin’s songs, placing “Kashmir” at the very top. They describe it as a track unlike anything else from the era, and something no other band could have created.
Released in 1975 on the album Physical Graffiti, “Kashmir” quickly became a concert staple, performed at almost every Led Zeppelin indicate following its release. The song’s unique sound stems from a combination of musical elements, including a D–A–D–G–A–D guitar tuning used previously in instrumentals like “White Summer” and “Black Mountain Side.”
The Making of a Masterpiece: A Three-Year Journey
“Kashmir” wasn’t created overnight. It was the result of a three-year writing process, with lyrics dating back to 1973. Jimmy Page and Robert Plant penned the song, with contributions from John Bonham. John Paul Jones was delayed arriving to the studio during the initial recording sessions and therefore did not receive a writer’s credit.
The song’s composition is notable for its blending of different rhythmic meters – the guitar riff is in triple meter, while the vocals are in quadruple meter. Robert Plant emphasized the importance of Bonham’s drumming, noting that he didn’t overplay his part. Page utilized a Danelectro guitar for the recording, a departure from his usual Gibson Les Paul or Fender Stratocaster.
Beyond Morocco: The Song’s True Inspiration
Despite its title, “Kashmir” isn’t directly about the region of Kashmir in South Asia. Robert Plant has described the song as representing a broader theme of spiritual and physical exploration, evoking imagery of ancient civilizations and mystic travels. Lyrics like “Oh, let the sun beat down upon my face, stars to fill my dream” and “To sit with elders of the gentle race, this world has seldom seen” contribute to this sense of journey.
The song’s creation was sparked by a drive through Morocco, though the lyrical themes extend beyond a specific geographical location. It’s a testament to the band’s ability to blend intricate musical arrangements with profound lyrical depth.
“Kashmir” vs. “Stairway to Heaven”: A Matter of Preference
While Vulture champions “Kashmir,” opinions differ. Rolling Stone readers have consistently voted “Stairway to Heaven” as the greatest rock ballad of all time. Robert Plant himself has a complex relationship with “Stairway to Heaven,” even jokingly requesting a radio station to stop playing it.
Led Zeppelin’s impact on music history is undeniable. They became the first major rock group to achieve mainstream success without relying on radio airplay, focusing instead on the album format and the rise of FM radio, particularly “free form” stations that played longer tracks with extended guitar solos and without traditional song structures.
Led Zeppelin: A Legacy of Innovation
The band’s debut, coinciding with the era of Woodstock, signaled a shift in the music landscape. Led Zeppelin’s catalog includes iconic songs like “Stairway to Heaven,” “Immigrant Song,” and “Whole Lotta Love,” but their influence extends far beyond individual tracks. They fundamentally changed how music was created, distributed, and consumed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Who wrote “Kashmir”?
- Jimmy Page and Robert Plant wrote “Kashmir,” with contributions from John Bonham.
- What album is “Kashmir” on?
- “Kashmir” is featured on Led Zeppelin’s 1975 album, Physical Graffiti.
- Is “Kashmir” about the region of Kashmir?
- No, while the song is titled “Kashmir,” it’s not directly about the region. The lyrics explore broader themes of spiritual and physical exploration.
You can listen to “Kashmir” on YouTube.
What are your thoughts on Led Zeppelin’s “Kashmir”? Share your opinions in the comments below!
