George Harrison DARED Rock's Golden Gods To Write A Ballad…DID THEY EVER.. | Professor of Rock

Known to many as hard and heavy rockers, Led Zeppelin has written some of the greatest pulse-pounding classics of the past half-century. But at one point they were actually called out by George Harrison for rocking too much. Challenged to bring it down a few notches, guitar virtuoso Jimmy Page composed a sonic soundscape so lush and surreal that one of rock’s premiere producers said it defied classification.WHEN Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones and John Bohnam wrote the 70s album track the rain song, they put the greatest poets on notice.
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​ #70s #Vinyl #Story
Hey music junkies and vinyl junkies Professor of Rock always here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest 70s songs of all time for the music community and vinyl community with music history video essay's including today's Led Zeppelin Reaction and Rain Song Story. If you’ve ever owned records, cassettes and CD’s at different times in you life or still do this is your place Subscribe below right now to be a part of our daily celebration of the rock era with exclusive stories from straight from the artists and click on our patreon link in the description to become an Honorary Producer.
By 1972, Led Zeppelin had garnered massive commercial and critical acclaim thanks to four strong albums and a host of legendary live performances. Their current offering at that time, the untitled Led Zeppelin IV, went on to set the bar as one of the greatest rock albums in music history. According to the RIAA, it has sold 24 million copies worldwide.
From top to bottom, it was a monumental album...
Flying high from Led Zeppelin IV’s insane popularity, the band had become rock’s biggest draw... surpassing even the Stones and the Who. In fact, the following year Zeppelin would smash the single-concert attendance record set by the Beatles with over 56,000 attendees. There was no doubt, Led Zeppelin was well on their way to rock immortality and expectations for their next album were through the roof led zeppelin rain song reaction.
Zeppelin’s fifth album, Houses of the Holy, was actually recorded in multiple locations... technically beginning in December 1971 at London’s Island Studios with a rough instrumental mix of No Quarter. Months later in April 1972, they gathered at Mick Jagger’s country estate Stargroves to record, with the help of the Rolling Stones’ Mobile Studio. But they weren’t happy with the acoustics of Mick’s manor and opted to continue work at Olympic Studios instead.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: When you need some TLC or the healing balm of great music, what is your go to song?

[@stephenbrown4211]

I have mentioned this song a few times Stay With Me Til Dawn Judie Tzuke. Just about my favourite song ever. I can listen to it anywhere and for any situation. It’s just beautiful and washes away any problems or worries.

[@stuykins1]

A whole bunch of songs from the legendary Leonard Cohen.

[@66impala71]

Please Forgive Me by Bryan Adams. Sheer beauty.

[@GSXK4]

This might seem a bit strange, but if I had a particularly bad or frustrating day at the office, I might play a 1993 song by Geto Boys- die motherf@#cker. I sing along and it washes away the frustration beautifully!

[@aimee5259]

Beethoven's Ode to Joy.

[@SandraHof]

The year "Houses of the Holy" was released I had it on my Christmas "wish list". Apparently, my mom didn’t think it was appropriate for an 18 year old high school senior. So instead, I was given Carol King’s "Tapestry", which is a great album. But when you are 18 and into Led Zeppelin, it is not quite the same.😂

[@michaelraiger20]

That is a great story! That Tapestry lp though! It’s like a snapshot into our love of music. I get that feeling sometimes when I look into my vinyl collection and wonder: Elton John or Zeppelin, Dylan or Billy Joel, Winwood or U2, Neil Young or the Beatles. It’s a nice problem to have!

[@lindamoore3729]

Awesome story , yes the mighty Zep vs King well both are unique artists but hey I feel what your saying! 😁. Zep head 4 ever!

[@blucheer8743]

Those were the days!

[@rogerhuggettjr.7675]

When you thought about the album you wanted you knew the words to "So Far Away"! lol

[@SandraHof]

@@rogerhuggettjr.7675 😂True.

[@raymorrow29]

Thank you for giving The Rain Song the attention it deserves! It's been one of my favorites for many years. I'm not ashamed to say it's brought a tear to my eye. More than once. When I told my wife this, she wanted to hear it right away. She needed to hear the song that makes her husband cry. It's just so perfect, so beautiful. An absolute fucking masterpiece.

[@liquidsolids9415]

I had no idea “The Rain Song” was considered an under-the-radar LZ song. I’ve always thought of it as a masterpiece. Thanks for the cool history lesson!

[@MaceGill]

They have eight studio albums and only a small handful of additional songs. NONE of their songs are under the radar ;)

[@kennysowers953]

The Ocean is also (in my humble opinion) a very underrated song. By no means a ballad but a great rock and roll song. Led Zep great songs are many and varied.

[@detroitrocker4098]

Me too... one of my favorites!

[@r2dxhate]

@@kennysowers953 That's how I feel about "Down by the Seaside". No one ever seems to know it, but it's such a gem.

[@cuchulainn3474]

It's my favourite Zep song of all time and the first Zep song I learned on guitar.

[@Cowdog1]

Stairway to Heaven was covered so many times because it is a work of art. I don't get why people put it down as a cliche when it's an awesome song.

[@treff9226]

It's human nature to build something up and then want to tear it down when it gets too big! Sad, but true, we are a bizarre circus of freaks! Stairway To Heaven is known as the number one song in radio rock history. It is epic in every sense - beautiful, haunting, powerful, the only negative being "listener fatigue" as we've all heard it ad nauseam. Jimmy's solo in Stairway is widely regarded as one of rocks greatest, if not THE greatest! The solo truly speaks, with a beginning, middle and end that contains notes put in an order that literally.command attention, the flow and dynamics utterly captivating and memorable upon first listen! M A S T E R P I E C E!

[@AV84USA]

Those who put down the song can’t play the song. Maybe some can TAB through it, but they can’t play it and have anyone FEEL it.

[@toughenupfluffy7294]

Overplayed, WAY overplayed. It's radio's lame 500 hit song model, where they only play the top 500 songs, ignoring all the other awesome songs, hoping to catch listeners when they hear their favorite. I'm a die-hard Zep fan, but I'd prefer to never hear _Stairway_ ever again.

[@treff9226]

@@toughenupfluffy7294 True that, while Zep is my band, and Stairway is genius level music, radio has put a huge stain on it and many other classics, completely saturating the airwaves with the same tunes, year after year. The word "radio" should come with a skull and crossbones warning - it's pure poison.....hey radio - f*ck off!

[@lawrencenjawe9875]

I merely ignore those critics and put them to sleep, Sir..🥱🥱🥱🥱.

[@dviljoen]

I was born in 66 and so grew up listening to them on the radio. But we didn't have a lot of money so I didn't buy a lot of albums. But when I grew up I bought their anthology, and this is one of my favorite songs from their whole catalog. Absolutely beautiful.

[@raffisekzenian2746]

Me too.

[@TheUffeess]

When my brother brought this record and played it, he was disappointed. He was 15 and had expected something similar to what they had done before. I was 10 and was mesmerized. My brother gave me the record, something that happened very rarely. I love all the songs but "Over the Hills and Far Away" was the favorite. Thanks for another great episode in one of the best channels on KZbin. Greetings from Sweden!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

"Over the Hills and Far Away" is probably my second or third favorite on there.

[@peach495]

I didn't care for it when it came out either. After hearing them play it live in 1973 I loved it. Stands tall as their best work now.

[@brianmallen8887]

Weird, I felt the same damn way about "Houses of the Holy" album as the rest of the young teenagers when it came out. Disappointed. Except for.....you guessed it- "Over the Hills And Far Away." Jimmy Page could just rock an acoustic guitar. And electric. And produce the records? Godamn! But that guitar intro to "OTHAFA" so subtle, sweet, seductive, yet purposeful..Just like the intros to "Stairway,""Going To Cali,""Tangerine."...And Robert Plant, "Hey lady you got the love I need." He gets right to the point with his lyrics, when he's talking about sex. The mystic stuff went over every teenager's head that I knew. But he could wail like Janis Joplin and when you get right down to it he's the voice, the grungy rock n roll philosopher of Led Zepelin. There is one song from the Zep that I think is criminally underrated- even by the band...Ranked #37 in a Rolling Stone magazine poll...???? "Living, Loving Maid."...Speaking as someone who was around when this music was new "Living, loving" was played on the radio a lot. I liked it cause it was a departure from Robert P's. sex talk and Misty Mou tain Tops, Scandanvian war lords and pixies frolliking in the forest...."Living, Loving" was about the here and now. Cynical, desperate, funny- "alimony, alimony paying your bills."...Man, Jimmy Page and Robert Plant were partners.

[@kevinohalloran7164]

@@peach495 Lucky you! I would much prefer to have seen the '73 tour, featuring songs on "Houses Of The Holy." Saw them Feb '75. Have never cared for "Kashmir."

[@peach495]

@@kevinohalloran7164 They played the whole album. Not in order, but they pretty much played everything from the previous 4 albums also. They started at 8PM with no warm up band & played until sometime after midnight. I don't know if they did this @ every show on that tour, but they also played Going Down made famous by Jeff Beck that night. The ticket was $7.50.

[@wingman5985]

Listening to anything made today, I'm so glad I was born when I was. We'll be talking about these greats forever. Get well professor!

[@SlickArmor]

I feel sorry for people the last 20+ years. How could they possibly discus the crap they grew up with years later.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I say this as a 16-year-old autistic girl: The music of my generation is trash. I was born in the wrong decade and would have loved to grow up with quality music like my parents and grandparents did. I love Professor’s effort to keep the music alive.

[@sandy-quimsrus]

My 21yo doesn't even really listen to music. It was such an important part of my youth, I just can't understand it.

[@hotrox2112]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 You to sweetheart, keep it in that treasured soul of yours, and play it all forward... "Long Live Rock"

[@kevinjamison123]

Absolutely one of the best. The Rain Song got me through a life or death situation in my late teen years. Had it not been for Ten Years Gone, In the Light, and this, I may not have made it.

[@gerhardbraatz6305]

We're glad you did.

[@juliemanarin4127]

Wow!!

[@OutOnTheTiles]

Stay strong friend. 👊

[@ProfessorofRock]

Wow. Thank you for sharing that. Music heals.. No doubt about it.

[@ProfessorofRock]

SO glad you held on my friend.

[@josephjetkiewicz7825]

So sorry you had to endure kidney stones Adam. Glad you are doing better. Thank you for highlighting Led Zeppelin (my all time favorite band). I thoroughly enjoy your research, work, and dedication. Keep it up! Music has gotten me through the highs and lows of my 64+ years. Your enthusiasm for music is wonderful.

[@88spaces]

I didn't discover rock and roll until I was in my twenties. At that time, I immediately gravitated to Led Zeppelin. So being the poor man that I was, I saved some money to buy Houses of the Holy. I couldn't stop listening to the Rain Song. Even to this day, it is a beautiful song full of hope.

[@brucecairns4262]

When I saw the title of this edition I said, "It's gotta be 'The Rain Song!'" It took a good eight minutes for you to say so, and when you did I practically shouted YES, which really got my wife's attention. The Rain Song is one of my top three favorite songs by LZ. I have listened to this song in headphones SO many times its ridiculous and was thinking that you should tell people too do so. Frankly I remember laying down on the floor as a teen with a speaker on each side of my head because I didn't yet have headphones. That no doubt contributed to my hearing issues now that I'm in my sixties. Oh well, we all have to be young and foolish.

[@benxamin13]

I also thought it would be about the Rain Song just from the title.

[@RamblinJer]

You took me back with laying on the floor with speakers at each ear, oh yeah! I remember those days. Good Day!

[@robertevans8024]

My hearing problems started after several Van Halen concerts in the front rows. 😂 I swore they were the Greatest band ever in my teens. I've since realized how wrong I was when I grew up and fully appreciated the genius of LED ZEPPELIN. My older brother was right. I just wish I was old enough back then to attend a LED ZEPPELIN concert when they were killing it in the states.

[@not2zen]

Yes indeed,you definitely took me back with the speakers on either side laying in the floor and as crazy as it sounds, I listened to the same thing. Physical graffiti is my favorite album ever! I appreciate you taking me back to a forgotten place.

[@Alan_CFA]

“The Rain Song” is great, but I thought the title referred to “Thank You” from Led Zep II. From Led Zep III “Tangerine” and “That’s the Way” (a beautiful song!)”, were ballad-like as well, but I’ve always thought of “Thank You” as their first ballad.

[@WeaponsEducation]

The Rain Song is not underrated by me. It is exactly as you presented it. I always go to that song for an uplift.

[@BiBo24-]

I agree! For me, "Ten Years Gone" is the same

[@commentfreely5443]

i forced myself to listen to led zepplin when i made beer. finally it grew on me. at first only a few appealed to me.

[@shvrdavid]

Honestly I think it got the "under rating" from being a really really good song, that was to long for radio play on stations that insisted on 4 min songs.

[@RFXLR]

I love how both Page and Jones use music prominently to set the mood of this song. It’s so easy, as a listener to just melt into this song.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s a great daydreaming song.

[@davidmiller9485]

have you seen Jones's redo of when the levee breaks? kzbin.info/www/bejne/gnmTXoqOiquMaM0

[@mattiefee]

As soon as you said "The Rain Song" I got chills. I learned to play this on guitar as a teen in the 90s. I had my hip hop/grunge/metalhead skater friends listing to this because I would explain how great and diverse the song was. That emphasized bass lick in the second verse gets me every time! Such a masterpiece!

[@gui-texzan7477]

My favorite Zep tune to listen to and play. ✌️

[@southboundsuarez9832]

Yep! Me too! One of the most difficult for me to decipher, I learned it all on my own . It was the hardest songs I learned to play. Many years later I find that I play it different with many obscure finger twisted chords and made it much more difficult. I continue to play it with complicated open chords more like the studio album version and much less the live recording. It's a very soothing song to play on the guitar and lends itself so well to the inflection and feeling on how you play it. I prefer to play it on a big Plexi amplifier with volume turned up and the guitar volume rolled down and use the lightest touch and feel to give it a certain power that is restrained by my finger tips.

[@DonaldMerrit]

I learned to play this song in standard tuning. Ugh

[@mattiefee]

@@DonaldMerrit same here. It puts some real strain on your hand tendons LOL

[@cymro6537]

@@DonaldMerrit same.

[@algoner4421]

My wife surprised me at our wedding amd walked down the isle to rain song., the musical portion. I lost her a little over 2 years ago to unknown breast cancer two months after giving birth to our 2nd baby girl. She was 39 n 5 days old. She knew I loved Zep (as did she) and this song in particular. I love it even more now. It is really a masterpiece. Especially live at MSG. Love your videos!!

[@crystalbluepersuasion1027]

Oh no, I’m so sorry.

[@rainerrauser9030]

I can still remember my first time listening to Rain Song. I was so struck I forgot everything around me. Adam, I couldn't agree more - this song is definitely a hidden gem.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Had the same experience!

[@amedley3086]

Led Zeppelin: IMHO the greatest musical act of any age and any genre. This song has always been top five and Houses has always been my second favorite album. This song and "Thank You" are to of the greatest love songs ever written. Thank YOU Professor.

[@juliemanarin4127]

Agreed!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Agreed!

[@jimmorrison7417]

I was walking through a neighborhood alley when a friend of mine gave me a cassette of Led Zeppelin III because he heard me rocking out to Zeppelin 1&2 over the summer. I was blown away with the acoustic change of pace.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s otherworldly, really.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Awesome!

[@tonycarson4234]

Although I love listening to Zepp rock out Led Zeppelin lll is my go to album. I must have bought it half a dozen times in different formats over the years as I've passed copies on to people who "Don't like heavy metal" when we talk about music and Zepp enter the conversation.

[@dreamweaver1603]

Led Zeppelin III was always my favorite, but of course there is not one bad song by Led Zeppelin. Considering how many albums they made that’s a miracle. Most albums have two or three really good songs while the rest are just okay or filler. To have 9 or 10 albums (counting the double album as two albums) full of great songs I don’t think any other band can match.

[@rodmunce2328]

for me the rain song is the most beautifully played song jimmy has ever done. the acoustic playing is so sophisticated, intricate, emotional, and moving. thank you george.

[@rondarnell949]

The live version off of The Song Remains the Same is absolutely the best. Robert Plant is beyond comprehension and the scream he does near the end is fabulous.

[@groover5863]

The unledded version isn't too shabby either. :)

[@hellradiolives]

I was never that huge of a Zeppelin fan. But when "When the Levee Breaks" came on the radio when I was driving the sun-dappled back roads of West Virginia on my own, the synergy of the moment and the music came together. Now, like a mantra, it always brings me back to center.

[@OTOss8]

I'd love to ride shotgun with you with that blasting. Sounds like heaven.

[@rgkavendek]

Wow, so sorry to hear that, Adam!! But I’m so glad you seem to be recovering nicely!! I’ve always considered The Rain Song to be just a masterpiece on all levels!!!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks. Great song.

[@frankgrin2822]

Rain Song is by far my favorite of Zep. I learned painstakingly to learn to play it note for note when I was a younger man. And at 51 I still play it today and I'm so glad I learned it as a younger man. It's such a beautiful song. Thanks for covering it. Brought back a million memories man.

[@robinhodgkinson]

Never an underrated song for me - always one of my Zep favourites. Man those guys were good! Lots of bands have come and gone from my playlist but 50 years on they're still one I regularly listen to.

[@paulas2218]

I LOVE this song by them. My husband was a huge fan, and we met in 1975. I liked “prettier” music, acoustic guitar, etc, so to win me over to the Zep, he played me all their more acoustic stuff. This one quickly got me. We have become more devoted in our love over this last 47 years, and Zeppelin is still with us. I’m a huge fan of Almost Famous too! You know that was actually about Zeppelin, right?

[@Gjungling]

Last year I saw Jason Bonham's Led Zeppelin evening tribute concert. An absolute must for any Zep fan. Brilliant performance. They played a huge swath of the catalog, including the Rain Song. I overheard two guys in the restroom talking, "I don't know half of these songs". Of course, those are the good ones; the lesser played gems.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I bet it was fabulous!

[@FoxUnitNell]

Seems like there are two important songs on each album but people just mostly know the first four.

[@brown22sugar25]

I saw them in Cincinnati last year

[@carl6149]

Look into ‘Get The Led Out’. They’re intent is not to act or look like Zeppelin, but to sound like the music from the LPs. They freaking Nail It! I’ve seen them 11 times and I have tickets to see them for #12. They never disappoint! 🎵🎸🔥🎶🎶

[@brown22sugar25]

@@carl6149 I’ve seen them too, they stick to recreating the studio recording while JBLZE does a mix of live and studio performances. Jimmy Sakurai is worth the price of admission alone.

[@BillTheConquerer]

You can tell the Professor is a music connoisseur as he's talking about Zeppelin with a Neil Diamond album in the background. Respect, sir.

[@billyray8062]

I agree Adam,I always thought The rain song was a hidden gem not many people caught. I love when you have a flash back to days with your father and interpreting great music.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thank you!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Keep telling stories of your father’s influences on music, Professor! I love to hear them!

[@ramblingman66]

It's a beautiful song that paints a landscape, there isn't another band and guitarist that could write such a song. It's unique as a good few other Zeppelin songs are. Very moving at the end of the video, we can all relate to that 👏

[@kenrevels8959]

I love The Rain Song, as well as almost every song on Houses of the Holy. However, I would classify the song That's The Way from their third album as a ballad. Another severely underrated song by Zeppelin would be Achilles Last Stand from Presence.

[@sakikogookheng]

Also Thank You from II. Never heard much said on That's The Way, which is a shame, maybe it's due to nostalgia, but I love that track so much. Achilles Last Stand is beyond a masterpiece, that's not opinion, just fact!

[@1023beaner]

That's the Way is my favorite song

[@carole5648]

Achilles last stand is my favorite song ever.

[@Cpt_Adama]

As good as LZ IV is ("When the Levee Breaks" being my favorite from that album), Physical Graffiti is my favorite album. Not only for the sheer quantity of songs but the quality of pinnacle musicianship that was put into every song. "Ten Years Gone" being one of my favorites, is another masterful ballad from Jimmy.

[@isaacshaver6218]

Graffiti is mine too. I tend to like the ones after IV (houses of the holy & presence) more and more as I get older, but the entire Zep catalog is great.

[@jesssimpson5959]

I totally agree, Physical Graffiti is my favorite as well.

[@RobertJohnson-bj5lk]

All I have to do is hear the opening chords of “10 years gone” and I start getting tearing eyed. That being said, absolutely nothing beats listening to Kashmir while driving on interstate 15 from Barstow, CA to Las Vegas. Physical Graffiti is hands down the best road trip album ever.

[@necrosunderground]

Love, LOVE Graffiti! But, I still have to say, Levee is my all-time favorite Zeppelin song.

[@jasonvoorhees895]

I'm right there with ya. Graffiti is definitely their pinnacle album, musicianship wise, in my opinion, and 10 Years Gone my fave track from that album

[@skibum914]

I agree with your assessment of Rain Song. It is one of their greatest works ever and often brings tears to my eyes when listening to it. To me, Led Zeppelin goes way beyond any band in history...something about their music touches my soul like no other and this song hits this spot every time. Led Zeppelin is the very definition of timeless classic rock and they are the Mozart of their genre.

[@twenty3enigma]

George knew that ballads would help some of their male fans talk their not-completely-rocker girlfriends into going to concerts with them. He just knew. And he was right. It worked.

[@ericvidiella7497]

Page and Plant's performance of the Rain Song in 1998 with a full orchestra is so beautiful it always brings me to tears...

[@jamessimmons9617]

Wow .. just wow … such an amazing, heartfelt tribute to an amazingly underrated masterpiece. I completely felt the emotion when you spoke of your beloved father (I just lost my father in Jan.) …. So much more than a story or review. Thank you and may your father Rest In Peace… I know he can look down proudly on his son and his influence that lead to his love and appreciation of great music ! 🤘🏼

[@MisterMikeTexas]

"Thank You" off of "Led Zeppelin II" is also a great ballad. I believe Harrison would have liked that one if it got his attention.

[@unassistedsuicide2243]

It’s from their first album

[@SqeakyToy]

The only Led Zeppelin song I despise.

[@SqeakyToy]

@@unassistedsuicide2243 Incorrect. "Thank you" is on Led Zeppelin II. Would you like to see my vinyl copy?

[@unassistedsuicide2243]

@@SqeakyToy You’re right. My bad.

[@awakeandalive4248]

Thank you is easily the most poetic love ballad of all time, Plant really kicked ass and Bonham amazing drums truly stand out of course Page and Jones great too. The Beatles don't have anything close to match this song but I guess they're ok for pop commercial rock.

[@allenhonaker4107]

John Paul never gets enough credit. His skills as an engineer, producer and mixer are the very best. The band recorded the music but Jones and Page did all tracking mixing editing and producing.

[@Boblobblaw88]

and played mandolin, and piano, and melotron, and oh yeah--bass, and.......JP Jones is an amazing musician.

[@tonyiacunato5888]

JPJ is the quiet genius

[@floyd66brescia48]

Arguably, and IMHO he was the most talented, professional musician in the band…also was an arranger/producer. Each member was 25%…🤐…period.

[@johnledhalen2903]

Yea and JPJ should have got writing credit on Kashmir for those awesome orchestrations ! A different song I know but I had to say it.

[@sambochen2010]

If I remembered correctly, JPJ indeed was jack of all trades but Jimmy Page was the soul producer. His engineer and mixers were Eddie Kramer and Andy Johns. No doubt JPJ went on to produce for REM among others, but Page was the main/sole producer of every Zeppelin album.

[@dkyoung9345]

Led Zeppelin is such a complete band. 4 musicians that are all at the top of their game at their perspective instruments. And they fit together perfectly. Their ability to expand their music and lyrics in so many directions is magical. Thank you for yet another great breakdown Professor!

[@willowwillow1969]

I married my 1st boyfriend 6 yrs. ago. He is a HUGE Zep fan. I realized when we reconnected that I did not know very much about them. I knew how some of the songs sounded, but didn't even know the titles. I have been trying to educate myself. You have been a great help. Hubby also enjoyed the vid, but he has escaped to his man cave to play this song-on vinyl. Thanks so much for your well thought out views and considerations, it is very refreshing!

[@jamestoddjackson9655]

It is my favorite song of all time, by any band. You said it correctly, it is an absolute MASTERPIECE! You didn’t discuss the ending. Jimmy’s melodic ending is just unmatched.

[@mikemeraglia457]

Agreed. It’s my favourite part of the song and also incredibly satisfying to play on guitar

[@jpaleologos1]

So glad you devoted an episode to this wonderful song! It is my all-time favorite Zeppelin tune. I especially love the live recordings when it was played in a different key.

[@Hedwallfxtd]

I used to walk into the local music store to “shop” for a guitar… While everyone was playing “Stairway” or “Smoke on the Water”, I would break out with an emotional rendition of “The Rain Song”… it’s amazing how many heads turned when they heard it… still to this day, one of my favorite Zeppelin tunes - to both listen to, and to play! 🌧🎸❤️😀

[@henriettaskolnick4445]

I love how Jimmy gave it a working title of "slush" due to its softer nature. It is my favorite song of their catalogue; it never fails to bring me to tears. It is moody, melancholy, and triumphant all at the same time.

[@davidthompson4319]

The comment about your father touched a raw nerve. Wish my father had lived long enough for us to really enjoy our shared love of music together. Fairly new to your show, but definitely a fan and will keep watching. Thank you.

[@peterpinnpalermo6887]

The Rain Song has always been a favorite. If your a guitar player and a huge Jimmy Page fan. You cannot resist learning this composition. The version on the original release of The Song Remains the Same is phenomenal. When I'm asked why John Bonham is a great drummer? I respond with...just listen to that live version.

[@markselvisforeveryonechann1153]

A Top 5 Led Zep song to me! As you said, it takes me back to a simpler time. I also love the live version on The Song Remains The Same.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Same!

[@PeterTea]

"I ended up marrying her." She's definitely a keeper if one of her favorite songs is the Rain Song. You chose wisely... but then so did she.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

“The Rain Song” just left me with goosebumps in the aftermath of listening to it for the first time. It’s a Picasso, in my honest opinion. Professor, you delivered once again. Also, I’m so sorry that you are going through painful kidney stones! Sending you good vibes!

[@MyName-pl7zn]

It is truly a masterpiece of art, well said

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thank you!

[@LazyIRanch]

I guessed it was going to be either "The Rain Song" or "Kashmir". Both are gorgeous works of art.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@LazyIRanch Yes. Love “Kashmir” too. Both sound very otherworldly, which is so cool!

[@stanphillips7277]

Wow! The first time! I've heard it thousands of times and, it's one of those songs you never get tired of! I still get the same excitement when I hear it begin, I still get memorized by it and, excited as it builds to the Bop Crash "I've felt the coldness of my winter..." I'm so happy for you! Enjoy it for the rest of your days my friend ✌️♥️🎸🎶🎵

[@TroyBoleyn]

So happy to see you got past the obstacles and have had an awesome 2023, educating and inspiring those of us that desperately need and want it. Rock on, Prof!

[@henryrolfe9653]

From the moment I heard it, I knew, I'd be listening to it over and over again for years to come. It is my favourite Led Zeppelin song. So underrated. Thanks for this. Now I don't feel so all alone in my sentiment.

[@rayquintal403]

Crazy how this song takes you visually through the emotions of life, relationships and love. Each time I hear this song I can take a trip down memory lane. Sometimes there’s tears and sometimes there are smiles. Beautiful song, love this show. Find myself watching your videos at least five times a week. Some are repeat in viewing cause there just that good. Keep up the great work.

[@tektoniks_architects]

Lots of great heavy bands are often grouped together with Zep - Sabbath, Deep Purple, etc. But songs like Rain Song put them at their own level. Very few bands had their range, and epicness. Brilliant composition.

[@ValRapt121]

An unparalleled Perfect Storm of a group.

[@krisares6396]

This is absolute truth. I grew up listening to all my mom and Gran's music, so everything from 1940-1970s, in addition to my own music. Zep has always been in my top 5 favorite bands.

[@shaderyph]

They stole all that music though… which is on record. Whole lotta love Since I been loving you Dazed and confused Even stairway…. I guess it’s easy to have range when you’re stealing from a wide range of other artists

[@tektoniks_architects]

Not true. Cry harder.

[@brianpattison4603]

Glad you're on the mend. I have noticed that when I am down physically or mentally that music 🎵🎶 is the best medicine and it's healing power is unparalleled. Mighty VH, LZ and Journey are a standard prescription what ails me.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I have been feeling sick lately and listening to music helps me through this difficult time for me. Right now I am waiting to find out if I have COVID. And I am extremely nervous and worried that I won’t be able to share Professor’s word with my folks at school (that is if I have it). I hope this goes away.

[@jodivandyk3649]

Love Zepplin, and I LOVE The Rain Song! It touches you in places that you thought were forgotten. This song, as all of their music does, always continues to grow with me and I love it more! I never tire of it!

[@outernationalstudios]

Yes man. This is absolutely the way I feel about the rain song. It is just staggering to think those guys wrote peformed and produced this. This is just remarkable

[@4uhDamagecase]

On a short list of my all-time favorite songs, the rain song has fallen into the top 1 since i was 14 when my dad gave me one of his vinyl copies of houses of the holy and I listened to it front to back more times than I could count. The entire album is a masterpiece.

[@JeanieD]

I knew what this was about as soon as I saw the thumbnail! Amazing song, one of my absolute favorites of all time! Very sorry to hear about your pain and health issue, Adam. Glad you’re feeling better.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Same here!

[@robertericks]

Recognizable from the first chord, the listener has no choice but to go on the journey of "The Rain Song". Even if you defy all odds and actually manage to turn the song off, the tune will carry forth in your head. It is their masterpiece, and we must thank Mr. Harrison for giving LZ the inspiration to put this song in our hearts.

[@peterblock6964]

The Rain Song has been my hands down favorite Zeppelin since I first heard it. It's a masterpiece.

[@nilla003]

"I felt the coldness of my winter, I never thought, it would ever go....." Amen.

[@Boblobblaw88]

no need to knock "Stairway"---one of the greatest songs ever written---just to celebrate a great underplayed gem in Rain Song.

[@mattwarbuckle]

Rain Song is so ecstatically wonderful. I also love the 70s live versions with JPJ on Mellotron. Haunting and beautifully arranged!

[@BlindGordie]

To be honest, my favourite version is the live version fromThe Song Remains the Same soundtrack and in particular, the original version of the soundtrack with The Rain Song ending off side 1. I especially love it when you hear the timpani coming in, at various times during the rock part as Robert sings the "curse the gloom" line, before the "summer of my smiles" verse and at the end of the song. It's amazing that they pulled it off live, with a melatron, guitar, vocals and drums as well as they could with the technology that was available.

[@dont_follow5777]

Agree on the SRTS version.

[@MyName-pl7zn]

Well said!

[@markselvisforeveryonechann1153]

Agreed- I LOVE the live version!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That live version is spectacular!

[@juliemanarin4127]

I agree!

[@VoodooAngel63]

So sorry to hear of your illness. Sending good thoughts and energy for your full recovery.

[@stellarpod]

It is their finest work in my opinion, showing a depth of range of which few believed the were capable. I particularly appreciate your touching recount of the connection you had with your dad through this music. As always, thanks so much for sharing. Steve

[@solarbuduk]

Totally agree. The Rain Song has always been one of my absolute favourite Zep songs. One of the songs I got my guitar teacher at school to teach me how to play, and I love to pick up a guitar and play it to this day. Just so intricate musically - I can’t think of anything else Page did that really compares.

[@enoughcorruption5975]

Rain song live on TSRTS is absolutely untouchable and one of Zeppelins best moments! Put on the headphones and close your eyes and listen to one of the most underrated songs by anyone and I'm talking about In The Light!!! Never gets talked about but the song really moves you! Anyway, best band ever hands down! 💙

[@AeolianReflex]

Superb presentation and heartfelt analysis. Your interpretation on the depth of lyrics and how the music helped to perfectly convey the song's rising and falling emotions is excellent and makes me want to listen to the tune all over again. The fact about Harrison's comments leading to the creating the song is so cool! Thanks so much for this!

[@marciashiraishi5891]

My dad was a teenager when he lived in London and met Zeppelin. Many years later when I was born he still listened to his songs every day. English is not my native language so when I was a kid he would translate for me. I didn't understand the true meaning of the lyrics as a child but I really liked the sound, Zeppelin's songs always moved me, after all I was born listening to Stairway To Heaven. That was the first sound I heard upon arriving in this world: Jimmy's divine guitar. STH became my anthem. But when I started studying English my (British) teacher asked me to do a free translation of some song and my choice was not STH, it was Rain Song. When they asked me why this choice I replied “this song has glue, it stuck in my mind and won't let me”. It's stuck with me to this day...

[@How2Man_101]

I love listening to the rain song, I love playing the rain song, I will tune a guitar to the tuning and it stays that way for months.

[@OTOss8]

This album has some of my favourite tracks. The Rain Song of course, The Ocean, Dancing Days is a stone cold hit and No Quarter. Man, No Quarter is the Zeppelin/Floyd superband fusion project I always wanted. I've listened to No Quarter as many times as any Zep song. I love it.

[@robertcorona3362]

They did an amazing version of No Quarter at their 2007 Celebration Day concert. Check it out of you haven't seen it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qGjJfoCZhaesn8k

[@phillipwatashe2018]

Yes sir even Tool covered it, with different lyrics but no mistaking that rhythm

[@user-uy1dw8qb7f]

@@phillipwatashe2018 Thank you for that piece of information - one of my favourite bands playing one of my favourite songs.

[@woodchuk1]

Easily in the top 5 Led Zeppelin songs for me, maybe even top 3. An absolute masterpiece lyrically and compositionally, and a total joy to play.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s top three for me.

[@Lessontobe]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Top three of Zep for me too.

[@jeremybrooks7415]

I said the same further up. Top 5 with Stairway, Ten Years Gone, Thank you (which was my wedding vows), and Levee.

[@woodchuk1]

@@jeremybrooks7415 Good choices…my top 5 would be Rain Song, Stairway, Ten Years Gone, Kashmir, and a tie between Since I’ve Been Loving You/Tea For One.

[@haveguitar]

Great song and a great video! No band generates that feeling of magic like Zeppelin, for me at least, so good it hurts sometimes.

[@sgtsilvernblack9220]

It's always been one of my favorites. Not of just Led Zeppelin, but of all I listen to.

[@CaptainXJ]

When the Levee Breaks is my go to Zeppelin song, no real reason. But my favorite of all time is Bron Yr-Aur Stomp.

[@scottnakasone5801]

I have always loved The Rain Song. The music and lyrics bring out so much emotion from those who intently listens to it. However, my personal favorite Zeppelin song has to be Ten Years Gone. Everything about it always gets me in the feels.

[@Alisonws]

Same!! Ten Years Gone is such a special jam 💖🎶🥰

[@jeffpeterson2012]

I ABSOLUTELY AGREE 1000% The Rain Song is great but there's something about Ten Years Gone that is so special and infectious. It is a song that catches the genius of the band. I mean how can a band write so many incredible and eclectic songs. They are a group where the planets aligned and fate stepped in to create a body of work that is far and above everyone's else's work. Which is hard because there are pure genius, amazing bands. But it will forever be what future generations look back at hundreds even thousands of years later and sit in awe of their pure and raw artistic talent. How Michaelangelo is revered so will be Led Zeppelin. The greatest band to ever be.

[@benxamin13]

I've come to realize that those who deeply appreciate the Rain Song tend to love Ten Years Gone too! It's my case certainly.

[@omarvasquez445]

Really enjoyed Professor, I'll be honest, I've never really got into "the rain song" but you put it so great I'm going to take a listen to tonight. Thanks, really enjoy relaxing and listening to your content. 🎧

[@qam2024]

Listen to the live version of the Rain Song on "The Song Remains The Same" album. It's 10x better than the studio version on "Houses of the Holy". TSRTS song is also 10x better on TSRTS live album.

[@rodsmolter5046]

It's a beautiful song but it's also long and slow. I find I have to be in the mood for it, like a longer car trip or to wind down before going to bed.

[@atomwatt77]

Lifelong Zep fan here…& this song is by far my favorite Zep tune (& it’s on my favorite Zep album). Great job breaking it all down, bud. 😎👍🏻

[@bessrock]

You did it! I watched your channel long enough that you finally covered my favorite song of all time. I'm 47. Zeppelin has been my favorite since I was 14. And the rain song has always been my number one Zep tune. So much emotion! Goosebumps every time! Tears, usually..

[@dont_follow5777]

The Rain Song is my favorite song by the band. On kidney stones. Had lithotripsy twice. 2002, 2003. Passed several on my own since then. Glad you're doing better.

[@slackdaddy1912]

That ballad, “The Rain Song” The first three chords of the Rain Song are the same as”Something” and it was George Harrison in a conversation with Jimmy Page. It was in a special tuning that Jimmy Page himself designed which shows you the level of talent they had. They weren’t musicians, they were music masters.

[@perry92964]

special tuning arent special, they just tune the guitar to make it easy to play a chord, is like using a kapo.

[@slackdaddy1912]

@@perry92964 ….. the tuning Jimmy Page used for this song never existed! You can not replicate it with a capo. That’s what I meant when I said special. Do you know how to tune the acoustic guitar for “The Rain Song?”

[@deaddocreallydeaddoc5244]

Over the HIlls and Far Away, seemed like a Hobbit-inspired song, to me. But I was reading LOTR over and over in the early 70s.

[@perry92964]

@@slackdaddy1912 no but im sure i can figure it out and im not a good player toni iomi tuned his guitar special mostly cause he is missing a couple finger tips. i have a few freind who play in bands and that can play rain song with out special tuning but they will say some of the chords are a stretch

[@slackdaddy1912]

@@perry92964 …………….. sorry, but there’s only one way to play this song and get the right feel. Tune the E string down to D, A to G, D to C, G stays the same, B up to to C, E down to D. Then it’s easy 2 finger chords that stay the same up and down the neck with some tricks in the middle. Good luck, happy playing.

[@stratdx]

I was late to the zeppelin game. After Live Aid, I was introduced to Houses Of the Holy. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. It was so lush… and full. I had never heard such a truly Beautiful composition. Also the first time I heard of DADGAD tuning. An absolute masterpiece.

[@japhyryder66]

This song is so incredibly important to me. It never ceases to bring me to my knees mentally.

[@cltnc571]

Yeah the Rain Song is one of my all-time favorite Zep songs. Used to listen to it almost every day coming home from school. I didn't hear it for 20 years or more then got back into it a couple of years back. You are right it never gets old.

[@lancelucifer4851]

Maybe the most beautiful song ever. Never will they be another Led Zep.

[@Jezballz]

Greta Van Fleet...lol.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

They are a band that should never be remade.

[@lisakvieira9201]

Happy Saturday Professor, I'm sorry about your health,get well soon Professor, Zepplin is my favorite band besides others, the artist you have named Unbelievable this is a great one sir thank you and your Terrific!!😊🎶💛🎯

[@ProfessorofRock]

Rock on!

[@lisakvieira9201]

@@ProfessorofRock You to Professor!!🎶🎯✌

[@tonyleone5790]

Another great great episode Adam. Totally agree with your assessment of this under appreciated gem. Yet again you have nailed what it is to be a fan of great music, digging in past just the excessively played top hits to discuss and dissect these great songs that often don’t receive their due credit. I’m so glad I discovered your videos a couple months ago as I look forward to them every day for the nostalgic trip they take me on. They inevitably lead me to digging back in my music collection and resurrecting some great tracks I may not have played in years. Let me just say that you are the coolest, “un-cool” guy on the internet, and I mean that with all the honest sincerity of Phillip Seymour Hoffman’s character Lester Bangs speaking to a young William Miller in that great flick “Almost Famous.” Keep up the great work!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He is the best professor ever!

[@studiomiguel]

I LOVE this song. I was never a huge Zeppelin fan, but Rain Song got me to really look at them lyrically and musically in a way that I sort of had always dismissed. Thanks so much to the dear friend that introduced me. I listen to it frequently and it moves me every time.

[@mfar3016]

Glad you’re on the mend, prof! Those stones are no joke!

[@kenfirestick1842]

I absolutely love your stories .. glad you are feeling a little better … no fun .. sounds like an upcoming story might be in the cards for “All Things Must Pass” .. ha ha - seriously feel better and thanks so much for all you give us

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thank you so much!

[@lhobs9782]

It is absolutely my favorite from the Houses of the Holy album. As a fan since 1975, this is a go to song for peaceful, deep and thoughtful reflection. Food for the soul. Jimmy Page’s composition and playing are sublime, giving my brain a place to rest while the vocals of Robert Plant just completely wash over me. 😎 For any fan of 70s rock music, the movie Almost Famous is a must see. It’s fantastic! Glad you’re well and on the mend!

[@paulb4604]

I'm a lifelong Zep fan, so of course I'm biased, but you can literally take almost every Zep song and break it down and point out the absolute genius of the song and of all 4 band members.

[@queenbeedat8726]

The Rain Song is one of my favorite songs. It summed up my love for my first love. We listened to this song dozens of times. He's a beautiful memory now and I still love him.

[@mroberts3835]

This is probably one of my favorite songs ever. The first time hearing I was totally absorbed by the softness and somewhat haunting echo of rock. The combination of Plants vocals with Jones and Page, even Bonzo's change up on the drums reveals the poetry of this composition.

[@ErikOosterwal]

"The Rain Song" really isn't a departure of Led Zeppelin's earlier releases; this song has a familiarity to the song "Tangerine," which was on their third album.

[@mattosborne5098]

Those are two of my favorites by Led Zeppelin. Thanks for mentioning Tangerine!

[@sakikogookheng]

After the critical flop of Led Zeppelin III, Jimmy Page addressed the criticism that the album 'wasnt heavy enough and was far too acoustic' by saying that LZ were always a folk band. "Babe I'm gonna leave you" had a very unleaded opening, which obviously got more rock and roll as it progressed (dynamics). But as you say, it wasn't a departure or out of blue, that tender side was always there, people just chose to ignore it till they couldn't.

[@danatowne5498]

Yup.

[@Mythos131]

One of the best songs of all time. The version Page & Plant did with the London Metropolitan Orchestra is incredible as well and also deserves a sequestered listen with prime headphones. A certain herb may be the most important thing to include for the full experience. Ha, a funny story about marrying the girl who's favourite Zep tune was The Rain Song. Two of my most disliked songs by my favourite bands are Stairway to Heaven and Money.

[@moonmist3312]

Absolutely agree with you on this one. My favorite Zep album and my favorite Zep song. Definitely underrated!

[@tonyiacunato5888]

Thats so funny. Dark side of the moon is maybe my favorite album ever but Money is my least favorite track. It almost seems out of place on that album. I do like Stairway, but it's not my favorite Zeppelin piece

[@johnwilliams1223]

@@tonyiacunato5888 I would absolutely agree with that. It’s not a bad song, but I will usually skip through it.

[@rhud1979]

@@tonyiacunato5888 Always thought Money was very out of place on that record.

[@magnaman80]

Every band has their “Stairway to Heaven”. The Eagles had Hotel California, The Beatles had A Day in the Life. Led Zeppelin had The Rain Song…..

[@Somerandomdude60]

True story! Lol

[@LuoJun2]

I’m with you. The Outlaws had “Green Grass and High Tides.” Lynrd Skynrd had “Free Bird.” Aerosmith’s has “Walk This Way.” Classic music that spans generations.n

[@daveo.739]

@@LuoJun2 Aerosmith's is "Dream On". Or Big 10" Record. 😀

[@pyrospecXpsX]

Well played

[@toyotasupra97]

Floyd, comfortably numb

[@waltersedovic7003]

Gorgeous tribute, Professor, esp with your proposal to your wife… the cherry on top! Thank you.

[@robbert5103]

Loved the way you opened your 💙 to talk about this song. That's what true forms of art do to you ... they open us to feel, see and understand better things.