About The Song
“Stairway to Heaven” is a song by English rock band Led Zeppelin, released in late 1971 by Atlantic Records. It was composed by the band’s guitarist Jimmy Page with lyrics written by lead singer Robert Plant for the band’s untitled fourth studio album (commonly known as Led Zeppelin IV). The song is widely considered one of the greatest rock songs of all time and has been covered by many artists.
The song features a slow tempo beginning with acoustic guitar and recorders before transitioning to electric guitar and drums. The song’s lyrics are mystical and have been interpreted in many ways. The song’s popularity has led to it being played frequently on classic rock radio stations and being featured in many movies and TV shows. The song’s live performances are also popular, with the 1975 Earls Court performance being particularly famous.
The song’s meaning has been subject to interpretation, ranging from spiritual ascent to societal critique. Its cryptic lyrics have sparked speculation and analysis over the years, adding to its mystique. The song narrates a metaphorical journey of a woman seeking spiritual fulfillment, laden with rich imagery and symbolism. “Stairway to Heaven” remains a pinnacle of rock music, captivating audiences with its timeless melody and profound lyrics.
Lyrics
There's a lady who's sure all that glitters is gold
And she's buying a stairway to Heaven
When she gets there she knows, if the stores are all closed
With a word she can get what she came for
Ooh, ooh, and she's buying a stairway to Heaven
There's a sign on the wall, but she wants to be sure
'Cause you know sometimes words have two meanings
In a tree by the brook, there's a songbird who sings
Sometimes all of our thoughts are misgiven
Ooh, makes me wonder
Ooh, makes me wonder
There's a feeling I get when I look to the west
And my spirit is crying for leaving
In my thoughts I have seen rings of smoke through the trees
And the voices of those who stand looking
Ooh, it makes me wonder
Ooh, really makes me wonder
And it's whispered that soon if we all call the tune
Then the piper will lead us to reason
And a new day will dawn for those who stand long
And the forests will echo with laughter
Oh-oh-oh-oh-whoa
If there's a bustle in your hedgerow, don't be alarmed, now
It's just a spring clean for the May queen
Yes, there are two paths you can go by, but in the long run
There's still time to change the road you're on
And it makes me wonder
Oh, whoa
Your head is humming and it won't go, in case you don't know
The piper's calling you to join him
Dear lady, can you hear the wind blow? And did you know
Your stairway lies on the whispering wind?
And as we wind on down the road
Our shadows taller than our soul
There walks a lady we all know
Who shines white light and wants to show
How everything still turns to gold
And if you listen very hard
The tune will come to you at last
When all are one and one is all
To be a rock and not to roll
And she's buying a stairway to Heaven