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“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.

“Stairway to Heaven” is a well-known song by Led Zeppelin, released in 1971 on their untitled fourth album, which is often referred to as “Led Zeppelin IV” or “Zoso.” The song, composed by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant, is a complex piece with various sections and stylistic influences. The section under analysis, Bridge 2, is a chord progression that serves as a connecting passage between the more tranquil sections of the song and the harder, rock aspects that follow. The chords are built on diatonic and chromatic elements, showcasing the band’s skill in creating evocative harmonic progressions.

“Viva La Vida” by Coldplay is a pop song that sits primarily in the key of G major, featuring four common chords: C Major, D Major, G Major, and E minor. The song’s simplicity lies in the consistent use of these chords, which creates a consistent harmony throughout the song.

The chord progression in Muse’s “Feeling Good” is in the key of G minor and showcases an interesting and creative use of borrowed chords and inversions. The progression follows a cyclical pattern that creates tension and release throughout the verse. The style is reminiscent of soul and jazz influences with a hint of rock elements, which is a common characteristic in Muse’s music.

“Strawberry Fields Forever” by The Beatles is a psychedelic rock song often regarded as one of their finest works. It’s innovative from both a melodic and harmonic perspective, using complex chord structures, chromatic touches, and key changes. The song is primarily in the key of E major.

Led Zeppelin – Whole Lotta Love – Verse 1

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Chord Progression

D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D

Chord Progression Analysis

D Major (I) – E Major (II)
Note: This chord progression features no borrowed chords.

Similar Chord Progressions

1. Song: “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple.
Chord Progression: G Minor (i) – B♭ Major (III) – C Major (IV) – G Minor (i)

2. Song: “Sunshine Of Your Love” by Cream
Chord Progression: D Major (I) – A♭7 (♭V7) – G Major (IV)

Musical Analysis

The verse of “Whole Lotta Love” has a distinct rock riff-based structure. The repetitive use of D and E chords is played over a driving bass and drum rhythm, adding to the overall energy of the song. The focus of the verse is the memorable guitar riff, which consists of syncopated rhythm patterns and is emphasized by the two-chord structure. Additionally, the D-E progression is an unusual and bold choice for a rock song, as it includes a major second motion, which produces a sense of tension.

Overall Analysis

The chord progression in the verse 1 of “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin features just two chords: D and E. This fairly simple progression, used repetitively throughout the verse, creates a strong and energetic foundation for the song. The style of the song reflects 1960s heavy rock, and the simplicity of the chord progression adds to the rawness and drive of the music.

Style Analysis

“Whole Lotta Love” is a blues-influenced hard rock song that heavily features lead singer Robert Plant’s strong vocal delivery and Jimmy Page’s power chords and guitar riffs. The chord progression and riff played in the verse represent a style that was pioneered by the British rock bands in the late 1960s. It is characterized by heavy distortion, amplified sound, and aggressive guitar work.

Chords in the Verse 1 section of Whole Lotta Love by Led Zeppelin are:

D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D, E, D