Dissecting Overrated and Underrated Hits: The Cases of Stairway to Heaven and Other Led Zeppelin Masterpieces

When it comes to debating the true value of classic rock songs, opinions can be divided sharply. One such debate centers around Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin. While many adore it, backing it as a pinnacle of rock music, some argue that it has been grossly overexposed. However, one cannot deny the profound impact and artistic quality of this iconic track. Let's explore why Stairway to Heaven and other Led Zeppelin songs have been labeled as overrated, and which ones remain underrated.

Stairway to Heaven: Overexposure vs. Mastery

With songs like Stairway to Heaven, it's not the quality that's overrated; it's the overexposure. I for one, love Stairway, but I've heard it so many times, it feels like old news. It is a classic track, but the constant repetition has set it into the realm of overexposure rather than a true overrating of its quality.

During my radio shows, I compile a list of songs that have seen far too much airplay, and Stairway to Heaven often makes this list. Songs like Sweet Child of Mine, Smoke on the Water, Hotel California, Hi Ho, Silver Lining, and The Boys Are Back in Town also fulfill this criteria. Occasionally, I might play a rare cover or a live version, but not the original recording. Another example is Don’t Fear the Reaper. While I'm a huge fan of Blue Oyster Cult, I recognize that after decades, it’s easy to overlook the subtler gems in their discography.

Thought-Provoking Lyrics and Masterful Performance

Despite the overexposure, the complex lyrics and captivating melody of Stairway to Heaven are a testament to Led Zeppelin's genius. The song expertly intertwines hard rock elements with a softer, poetic ballad, showcasing the skill of each musician on the studio recording. Robert Plant's vocals, Jimmy Page's guitar riffs, and John Paul Jones's bass and keyboard work are all superbly interwoven, making it a masterful composition. However, due to its omnipresence in popular culture, it has become a casualty of overexposure.

Beyond Stairway to Heaven: Examining Overrated and Underrated Tracks

While Stairway to Heaven may be overplayed, other Led Zeppelin songs have remained underappreciated. Here’s a list of some underrated tracks from the band:

I. Overrated

Stairway to Heaven

Thought-provoking lyrics and a masterfully composed melody make Stairway to Heaven a true classic. However, its overwhelming popularity has led to it being labeled as overrated. Even Robert Plant has admitted to becoming sick of it. Despite its high rating, its constant play has placed it in the overrated category.

II. Underrated

Led Zeppelin I

How Many More Times Thank You Tangerine

Led Zeppelin II

When the Levee Breaks Going to California

Led Zeppelin III

The Rain Song Dancing Days

Led Zeppelin IV

In My Time of Dying Trampled Underfoot In the Light Down by the Seaside Ten Years Gone Night Flight

Houses of the Holy

Physical Graffiti Wearing and Tearing

Presence

For Your Life Tea for One

In through the Out Door

Carouselambra I’m Gonna Crawl

Conclusion

The debate over whether a song is overrated or underrated is subjective and often based on personal taste. While some argue that Stairway to Heaven has been overexposed, other classics from Led Zeppelin remain underappreciated. Ironically, sometimes an iconic song’s very success can lead to it being considered overrated, while lesser-known gems continue to fly under the radar. Listen to these tracks, and form your own opinion on what constitutes a true classic in the world of rock.