Five Led Zeppelin songs that outshine Greta Van Fleet classics.
Few bands in rock history have achieved the iconic stature of Led Zeppelin, whose creativity and influence paved the way for innumerable artists, including modern-day rockers Greta Van Fleet. While Greta Van Fleet has received acclaim for their restoration of a traditional rock sound, comparisons to Zeppelin are unavoidable, and rightfully so. However, the alchemy of Zeppelin’s songwriting, musicianship, and cultural resonance puts them in a class of their own. Here are five legendary Led Zeppelin songs that outperform the finest of Greta Van Fleet’s catalogue.
1. “Stairway to Heaven”
“Stairway to Heaven” is arguably the most iconic rock song of all time, cutting across genres and decades. Its subtle acoustic prelude, evocative lyrics, and explosive crescendo demonstrate Led Zeppelin’s command of dynamics and storytelling. While Greta Van Fleet’s songs like “Age of Man” strive for the same grandeur, “Stairway to Heaven”‘s smooth progression and unparalleled emotional depth remain unrivalled.
2) “Kashmir”
The mesmerising theme from “Kashmir” is instantly recognisable and ageless. Its combination of rock and Middle Eastern-inspired orchestration distinguishes it as a daring, genre-defying classic. Greta Van Fleet’s “Safari Song” and “The Weight of Dreams” may mirror Zeppelin’s strength, but neither compares to the sheer breadth and intrigue of “Kashmir.”
3. “Whole Lotta Love”
3. “Whole Lotta Love”
Few songs capture raw rock energy like “Whole Lotta Love.” From the earth-shaking riff to Robert Plant’s electric vocals and the wild, experimental breakdown, this song represents the pinnacle of blues-based rock at its best. While Greta Van Fleet’s “Highway Tune” is unquestionably catchy, it feels like a tribute, whereas “Whole Lotta Love” is the blueprint.
4. “When the Levee Breaks”
With John Bonham’s thunderous drumming and Plant’s lyrical delivery, “When the Levee Breaks” exemplifies Zeppelin’s ability to transform a blues standard into an apocalyptic hymn. Blues-inspired tunes like “Black Smoke Rising” by Greta Van Fleet are impressive, yet they lack the same weight, mood, and inventiveness.
5. “Immigrant Song”
From the legendary opening scream to the galloping pace, “Immigrant Song” is an adrenaline-fuelled Viking battle cry. Its shortness and intensity make it a hard-hitting classic that personifies Zeppelin’s daring attitude. Greta Van Fleet’s high-energy songs, such as “Built By Nations,” have the same vigour but lack the visceral impact and originality of this Zeppelin classic.
Conclusion
While Greta Van Fleet admirably carries the flame of classic rock, Led Zeppelin’s revolutionary brilliance and lasting legacy are unsurpassed. These five songs embody the peak of rock invention, demonstrating why Zeppelin continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans.