150 - Led Zeppelin Rock and Roll 1971

The whole concept of Led Zeppelin was always to integrate the light and the dark, the soft and the heavy into a mythical musical partnership. "Rock and Roll" was first released as the second track of their untitled fourth album in 1971. As the title suggests, the song is based on one of the most popular structures in rock and roll, the 12 bar blues progression. "Rock and Roll" stands as one of the best-known songs in the band's catalogue. It begins with a powerful intro by Led Zeppelin drummer John Bonham in the vein of Little Richard's "You Keep A-Knocking (But You Can't Come In)," who is then joined by bandmates John Paul Jones on bass and Page on guitar, playing a driving A minor riff in 12-bar style. Vocalist Robert Plant comes in as the song switches to a similar, but more simplified version of the 12 bar melody. Guest musician and Rolling Stones road manager Ian Stewart ("Stu") comes in at the final and plays the piano parts. The bridge of the song is highlighted by a blistering guitar solo by Page, and builds to a fever pitch culminating in a final drum break by Bonham at the song's conclusion.