What Iconic Rock Song Was Originally Written on a 12-String Guitar?
Rock music is one of the most popular genres in the music world, having produced countless hits over the years. The electric guitar, which is often associated with rock music, has been an integral part of the sound of this genre. But did you know that one of the most iconic rock songs was originally written on a 12-string guitar?
In this blog post, we explore the world of rock music and uncover the origins of one of its most iconic songs. We’ll look at the history of the 12-string guitar, and how it has influenced rock music. We will then delve into the specific song in question, and discover why it has remained entwined with the legacy of the rock genre.
But first, let’s start with the basics.
What is a 12-String Guitar?
A 12-string guitar is a guitar with 12 strings instead of the usual six. The first six strings are set up as usual, while the second set of six strings are tuned to an octave above the first set. This gives the guitar a richer, more complex sound than a traditional six-string guitar.
Historically, 12-string guitars were used in folk music, but they can also be found in blues, country, and of course, rock music. They have been heavily used by countless rock musicians over the years, and have come to have a distinctive sound in many iconic rock songs.
Early Years of the 12-String Guitar
The origins of the 12-string guitar can be traced back to medieval Europe, where it was used as an accompaniment instrument. It later became popular in the 20th century among folk musicians, and was used in genres such as bluegrass and country.
The first 12-string guitar that was specifically manufactured for popular music was produced by Gibson in the 1930s. This guitar quickly became popular among blues musicians, who used it to create richer and fuller sounds.
In the 1960s, the 12-string guitar made a big impact in the world of rock music. It was used by several iconic musicians such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Byrds. These musicians were drawn to the unique sound of the 12-string guitar, and it soon became synonymous with the rock and roll sound.
As the 12-string guitar became more popular, it began to shape the sound of rock music, and created some of the most recognizable riffs of all time.
So, without further ado, let’s answer the question that brought us here.
What Iconic Rock Song was Originally Written on a 12-String Guitar?
The song in question is none other than Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin.
Stairway to Heaven is widely considered one of the greatest rock songs of all time, and has remained an iconic classic for over four decades. What many people don’t know is that the song was originally written on a 12-string guitar.
Jimmy Page, the guitarist and songwriter for Led Zeppelin, wrote Stairway to Heaven in 1970. He used a Gibson J-200 12-string guitar to write the song, which he later played on a Fender Telecaster during the recording of the song. This song went on to become a defining moment in the history of rock music.
The Story of Stairway to Heaven
Stairway to Heaven is a classic rock song that has stood the test of time. It was released on Led Zeppelin’s fourth album in 1971, and quickly became a hit among rock fans.
The song is over eight minutes long and is divided into several sections, each with its own unique sound and mood. The song starts out with a gentle acoustic guitar riff played on a six-string guitar, before building up to a powerful crescendo.
The lyrics focus on themes of spiritual enlightenment, with references to both Christianity and paganism. The song has been analyzed and dissected countless times over the years, and continues to captivate audiences with its cryptic message.
The Legacy of Stairway to Heaven
Stairway to Heaven has become a defining moment in the history of rock music. Its iconic riff and the virtuosic guitar solo has been heard countless times, in various parodies, covers, and other songs.
The song’s popularity has also been fuelled by numerous controversies. In the early 2000s, there were several accusations of plagiarism, with some people claiming that Stairway to Heaven had been copied from a song by the band Spirit called Taurus. However, after a lengthy legal battle, this claim was ultimately dismissed.
Despite the controversies, Stairway to Heaven remains a beloved and cherished classic of rock music. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s enduring quality, and its place in the history of rock music as a whole.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the world of rock music is full of fascinating stories and legends, and Stairway to Heaven is no exception. Written on a 12-string guitar, this iconic song has become a defining moment in the history of rock music.
The 12-string guitar may have had its roots in folk music, but it has since become an integral part of the sound of rock music. Its distinctive sound has helped shape the genre and has created some of the most recognizable riffs in rock history.
So, the next time you hear a classic rock song with a rich, complex, and unmistakable sound, there’s a good chance that it was played on a 12-string guitar.
And who knows, maybe there’s another iconic song being written at this very moment, on a 12-string guitar, that will go on to become yet another defining moment in the history of rock music.
Image Credit: Pexels