Led Zeppelin – Stairway To Heaven – Bridge 1
Stairway To Heaven < All Analyses
Chord Progression
Am7, D, Am7, Em/D, D, C/D, D, Am7, D, Am7, Em/D, D, C/D, D
Chord Progression Analysis
Am7 (vi7) – D (V/ii) – Am7 (vi7) – Em/D (ii6/5) – D (IV) – C/D (♭VII/IV) – D (IV) –
Am7 (vi7) – D (V/ii) – Am7 (vi7) – Em/D (ii6/5) – D (IV) – C/D (♭VII/IV) – D (IV)
Notes:
-Am7 is the sixth chord in the key of C Major, and Em/D is the second chord (with its fifth in the bass).
-The D chord that is seen throughout the progression is a secondary dominant, which is acting as the V chord leading to the ii (Em) chord.
-The C/D chord is a borrowed chord from the parallel minor key, C minor.
Similar Chord Progressions
1. Pink Floyd – “Shine On You Crazy Diamond”
Progression:
Am7 (vi7) – G (IV) – Em7 (ii7) – Am7 (vi7) – G (IV) – Em7 (ii7) – Dsus2 (viiø)
2. The Beatles – “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”
Progression:
Am (vi) – G (IV) – Am (vi) – C#m7b5 (iiø) – D (IV) – Em (III) – D (IV) – C (I)
3. Genesis – “Firth of Fifth”
Progression:
Cmaj7 (IΔ7) – D (IV) – Cmaj7 (IΔ7) – E7 (III7) – Dmaj7 (IVΔ7) – F (#IVΔ7) – D (IV) – C (I)
Musical Analysis
The chord progression of Bridge 1 displays a mix of rich harmonic colors and interesting movements that contribute to an emotional and expressive passage in the song. The constant alternation between Am7 and D creates a sense of tension and resolution that is maintained throughout the progression. The Em/D chord adds a smooth and sophisticated touch, with the major characteristic being the chromatic descending bass line that moves from D to C. This progression demonstrates Led Zeppelin’s exceptional musicianship and understanding of harmony in their songwriting.
Overall Analysis
The Bridge 1 of “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin is a beautiful and intriguing chord progression that combines diatonic chords, borrowed chords, and chromatic passing tones. This progression is part of a longer musical composition which has gained immense popularity since its release in 1971 as part of their fourth album, and has become one of the most iconic songs in rock music history.
Style Analysis
Led Zeppelin was heavily influenced by blues, rock, and folk music. Their songs feature experimentation with various chord progressions and melodies, often drawing from their diverse musical background. “Stairway to Heaven” is a prime example of a song that seamlessly blends rock and acoustic sections, contributing to its complex and captivating nature. This particular chord progression showcases their versatility and depth as musicians.
What are the chords in: Led Zeppelin – Stairway To Heaven – Bridge 1?
Am7, D, Am7, Em/D, D, C/D, D, Am7, D, Am7, Em/D, D, C/D, D
