Led Zeppelin IV: A Guitarist's Guide

Led Zeppelin IV, also known as "Zoso" or the "Four Symbols" album, but is actually untitled, is a masterpiece released by the legendary rock band Led Zeppelin in 1971. Selling 30 million copies worldwide, Led Zeppelin's fourth studio album is one of the most popular and influential albums of all time. This album showcases the immense talent of the band members, especially guitarist Jimmy Page, whose iconic riffs and solos have made a significant impact on rock music.

This record cemented the band’s reputation as rock giants and Jimmy Page a guitar hero with help from his classic riffs from the tracks “Black Dog” and “Rock and Roll” to Page’s iconic solo section contained within the epic, “Stairway to heaven”. In this guide, we'll examine each song on the album with a focus on the guitar aspects.

1. Black Dog

Guitar Tuning: Standard (EADGBE)

"Black Dog" is the opening track of the album, featuring a powerful riff in A Mixolydian mode. The bluesy riff uses syncopation and rests to create a catchy groove. The song's structure alternates between the main riff and a vocal-driven call-and-response section. The guitar solo in the song is played in A minor pentatonic scale, incorporating various techniques such as bends and slides.

2. Rock and Roll

Guitar Tuning: Standard (EADGBE)

"Rock and Roll" pays tribute to the early rock and roll sound. The guitar riff, in A major, is inspired by the classic 12-bar blues progression. Page employs various techniques, including string bending and double stops, to deliver an energetic solo in A minor pentatonic scale.

3. The Battle of Evermore

Guitar Tuning: Double Drop D (DADGBD)

This acoustic ballad stands out with its use of alternate tuning. The guitar is tuned to Double Drop D, which allows for unique chord shapes and voicings. The song features intricate fingerpicking patterns and open chord voicings, which create a folk-like, mystical atmosphere. The primary scale used in the song is D Mixolydian mode.

4. Stairway to Heaven

Guitar Tuning: Standard (EADGBE)

Arguably the most famous song on the album, "Stairway to Heaven" is an epic masterpiece. It starts with a delicate fingerpicked intro in A minor, gradually building to a powerful climax. The song utilizes several scales, including A minor, A Aeolian, and A Dorian mode. The iconic guitar solo is played in A minor pentatonic scale and incorporates techniques such as bends, hammer-ons, and pull-offs.

5. Misty Mountain Hop

Guitar Tuning: Standard (EADGBE)

This song features a syncopated riff based on triads, played in the key of E minor. The riff relies heavily on inversions and octaves, creating a hypnotic effect. The guitar solo is played using the E Dorian mode, which adds a modal flavor to the song.

6. Four Sticks

Guitar Tuning: Drop D (DADGBE)

"Four Sticks" utilizes Drop D tuning, which enables the use of power chords with a single finger. The main riff employs exotic-sounding chords and an offbeat rhythm. The guitar solo uses the D minor pentatonic scale, with Page employing techniques such as slides and bends.

7. Going to California

Guitar Tuning: Open G (DGDGBD)

"Going to California" is an acoustic ballad that features open G tuning. The open tuning allows for unique chord voicings and resonant open strings. Page uses fingerpicking patterns throughout the song, creating a warm, folky sound. The primary scale used in the song is G major.

8. When the Levee Breaks

Guitar Tuning: Open F (CFCFA♯D♯)

"When the Levee Breaks" is a powerful blues-rock track that uses Open F tuning, giving the guitar a dark and heavy sound. The main riff is built on a heavy slide guitar part that incorporates open strings and chord fragments. The song is played in F Mixolydian mode, and the guitar solo employs the F minor pentatonic scale, making use of bends and slides to create an emotional, bluesy feel.

In summary, Led Zeppelin IV is a timeless album that showcases the extraordinary skills of Jimmy Page as a guitarist and composer. Each song offers a unique insight into different aspects of guitar playing, from alternate tunings and fingerpicking patterns to dynamic solos and intricate riffs. As a guitarist, exploring this album will not only provide a deeper appreciation for Led Zeppelin's music, but also help you develop your playing and expand your understanding of various guitar techniques.

Guitar Techniques in Led Zeppelin IV

Throughout the album, Jimmy Page displays a wide range of guitar techniques that contribute to the unique sound and style of Led Zeppelin. Click on the links for a more detailed description of each technique, with examples of how to practice and develop these essential guitar techniques. Some of the key techniques used on this album include:

1. Alternate Tunings: Page employs various alternate tunings, such as Double Drop D, Drop D, and Open G, to create unique chord voicings and open string resonances.
2. Fingerpicking: Used in songs like "The Battle of Evermore" and "Going to California," fingerpicking adds a delicate, intricate texture to the guitar parts.
3. String Bending: A staple of blues and rock guitar playing, string bending is used extensively in solos and riffs throughout the album.
4. Slides: Slides are another expressive technique used in both riffs and solos, especially in "When the Levee Breaks."
5. Hammer-ons and Pull-offs: These legato techniques add fluidity to guitar solos, as showcased in "Stairway to Heaven."
6. Double Stops: Playing two notes simultaneously, double stops are used in several songs, such as "Rock and Roll," to add depth and fullness to the guitar parts.
7. Palm Muting: Used in combination with power chords, palm muting adds rhythmic emphasis and creates a heavier sound.