Led Zeppelin – Whole Lotta Love – Chorus 1
Whole Lotta Love < All Analyses
Chord Progression
E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E
Chord Progression Analysis
E Major (I), D Major (bVII)
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Borrowed Chord: D Major (bVII) is borrowed from the E Mixolydian mode.
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Similar Chord Progressions
1. “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd
Chord progression: D Major (I), C Major (bVII), G Major (IV)
2. “All Right Now” by Free
Chord progression: A Major (I), G Major (bVII), D Major (IV)
These chord progressions follow the same format of Whole Lotta Love, incorporating the I, bVII, and sometimes the IV chords. They demonstrate the commonality of this pattern in rock music and showcase how these chords are combined to create an infectious and memorable harmony.
Musical Analysis
The chorus section of “Whole Lotta Love” features a simple but effective two-chord progression, E Major and D Major. The use of the bVII (D Major) creates a sense of tension and release between the chords. This alternation between chords works well with the song’s blues rock style, emphasizing the mixture of blues and hard rock.
The chords are played in a straight, staccato rhythm, giving the chorus a strong sense of drive and energy. The chorus can be harmonically described as being centered around the E Mixolydian mode, since the bVII chord (D Major) is borrowed from that mode.
Overall Analysis
“Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin is a classic rock song that was released in 1969. The song features a signature riff that has become an iconic part of rock and roll history. The chorus of the song features a chord progression based on the alternating pattern of E and D Major chords, creating a groove that is both driving and catchy.
Style Analysis
The style of “Whole Lotta Love” can be described as blues rock and hard rock. It features distorted electric guitar riffs played by Jimmy Page, a driving rhythm section led by drummer John Bonham and bassist John Paul Jones, as well as powerful vocals from lead singer Robert Plant. The driving rhythm, heavy use of power chords, and propulsive drumming are representative of the hard rock genre popular at the time.
What are the chords in: Led Zeppelin – Whole Lotta Love – Chorus 1?
E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E
