The best classic rock songs have come from some of the most renowned musicians to ever play on a concert stage. Classic rock is a genre that is revived time and time again. This single genre of rock music has seen some of the greatest and most popular musicians to contribute to the history of the industry. Although each individual fan will most likely have their own list of the best classic rock songs, here are a few that are frequently mentioned.
Led Zeppelin: Stairway to Heaven
Stairway to Heaven shows up time and time again. This song, released in 1971, was the most requested on FM radio stations during the decade of the 70s. It runs a little over eight minutes total. The concept behind Stairway to Heaven was formed in 1970 while Robert Plant and Jimmy Page were in Wales. During this period, the band members were staying at Bron-Yr-Aur, an 18th century cottage that was used by Plant’s family as a holiday home during the 1950s. It was here that the first part of Stairway to Heaven was created.
The following evening, Plant spent time at the Headley Grange. While sitting by an evening fire, he began work on the lyrics for what was to become one of the best classic rock songs ever made. He claimed a majority of them were written right there during that evening. In November of 1971, the complete studio recording was released as a part of Led Zeppelin IV.
The Beatles: Hey Jude
Hey Jude was released on August 26th, 1968. The song was the first single from the Beatle’s label, Apple Records. The comes in at a total of seven minutes, which also gave it recognition as the longest single to make it to the top of the British charts. Hey Jude was considered one of the best classic rock songs in the United States as well, enjoying nine weeks at the number one spot. This would also be the longest run a Beatle’s song sustained at the top of the U.S. charts.
What makes Hey Jude so interesting (aside from being one of the best classic rock songs) is its background. It was written by Paul McCartney who wanted to provide Lennon’s son Julian comfort as he endured his parent’s divorce. There are other beliefs about the true meaning behind Hey Jude, which will likely continue to be a topic of debate for some. In the meantime, Hey Jude maintains a place as one of the best classic rock songs ever heard.
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