When the Levee Breaks - Led Zeppelin

LickLibrary brings you an in-depth, note-for-note guitar lesson of Led Zeppelin's legendary track, "When the Levee Breaks." Originally recorded for their 1971 album Led Zeppelin IV, this song features one of the most iconic drum grooves in rock history, alongside blues-heavy guitar work that showcases the signature style of Jimmy Page. In this lesson, you’ll learn the precise techniques and stylistic approaches that defined this epic track, bringing the unique sound of Led Zeppelin directly into your playing repertoire.

Led Zeppelin’s "When the Levee Breaks" exemplifies deep, thunderous blues elements that incorporate altered tunings, heavy string bends, and a range of dynamic techniques that both beginners and advanced players can appreciate. This lesson focuses on Page’s innovative approach to rhythm and melody, helping players not only master the song but also understand the methods and techniques that make this track so impactful. Danny Gill break down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Guitarist - Jimmy Page

As one of rock’s most influential guitarists, Jimmy Page is known for his exceptional ability to blend genres and create iconic sounds that resonate through decades. With roots in blues, folk, and rock, Page has a unique ability to layer rhythms, craft powerful riffs, and use innovative effects that have inspired generations of guitarists. His work on "When the Levee Breaks" is no exception, demonstrating his command over altered tunings, melodic depth, and tone that defines Led Zeppelin’s music. Studying Page’s techniques allows guitarists to explore blues-rock with a fresh perspective, learning from a musician whose influence has shaped rock guitar playing worldwide.

Lesson Breakdown - Key Techniques in "When the Levee Breaks"

Altered Tuning

One of the core elements of this lesson is Jimmy Page’s use of altered tuning, specifically an open F tuning, which gives the song its deep, droning character. This tuning allows the guitar to resonate with a fullness that standard tuning can’t match. Learning altered tunings will expand your musical range and give your playing a unique tonal quality often associated with slide guitar and folk traditions.

String Bending and Bluesy Bends

Page’s playing in "When the Levee Breaks" features extensive string bending and bluesy bends, adding emotional depth and intensity to his lines. These bends help mimic vocal qualities on the guitar, adding expression and a soulful touch to your playing. Practicing these techniques develops finger strength, control, and an understanding of pitch manipulation, essential skills for any blues-inspired guitarist.

Slides and Pick Slides

Slides and pick slides are essential techniques for creating movement between notes, adding fluidity and a gritty texture. Pick slides in particular give a percussive, scratchy effect that enhances the raw blues-rock feel of the track. Incorporating slides into your playing brings smooth transitions between notes and is a great way to build a flowing, cohesive sound.

Power Chords and Palm Muting

The deep, driving sound of "When the Levee Breaks" is achieved partly through power chords combined with palm muting. This combination gives the rhythm a heavy, chugging feel that’s quintessentially rock. Palm muting not only allows control over volume and attack but also adds definition to each chord, which is crucial for maintaining clarity in a dense mix.

Sustained Notes

The song includes various sustained notes, allowing notes to ring out and build tension. This technique emphasises the powerful, hypnotic quality of the riff, adding depth and resonance. Practicing sustain will help you with breath control in your playing, encouraging you to let notes breathe within a phrase.

Open String Riffs

This track’s riff is grounded in open string riffs, a technique where open strings are allowed to ring, creating a resonant, rich background. Open string riffs are effective for creating drones and adding harmonic complexity, making your sound feel fuller and more immersive. Practicing these riffs will improve your timing and give you an understanding of how to use open strings effectively in various musical contexts.

Syncopated Rhythms

"Led Zeppelin" frequently employed syncopated rhythms to create tension and groove. In this track, syncopation plays a critical role in giving the riff its memorable, driving feel. Practicing syncopation will refine your rhythmic timing, adding complexity to your playing and enhancing your sense of musical flow.

Harmonics

Harmonics are subtle but add a ringing, bell-like quality to the song’s atmospheric effects. Natural and artificial harmonics both feature in the piece, lending an ethereal quality to certain sections. Practicing harmonics improves finger precision and introduces a unique tonal element to your playing, opening up creative possibilities for adding atmosphere to songs.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

Mastering these techniques offers substantial benefits for guitarists. Techniques like altered tuning and power chords enhance your tonal flexibility, while string bending, slides, and sustain improve your expressive range. Each technique in "When the Levee Breaks" serves as a building block for developing control, rhythm, and creativity in your playing. These elements make this lesson not only a way to learn a great song but also a foundation for enhancing your overall guitar skill set.

Key Guitar Techniques Used in the Lesson

Below is a list of the key guitar techniques covered in our "When the Levee Breaks" lesson:

• Altered Tuning
• String Bending
• Bluesy Bends
• Slides
• Pick Slides
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Sustain
• Open String Riffs
• Syncopated Rhythms
• Harmonics

This comprehensive lesson offers you the chance to delve into the unique playing style of Jimmy Page and learn techniques that will elevate your guitar skills. Get ready to bring the powerful, haunting sound of "When the Levee Breaks" to life with LickLibrary.