About the song
“Black Dog” by Led Zeppelin is a powerful and influential track that epitomizes the band’s hard rock and blues fusion. Released on November 8, 1971, this song is a key feature of their untitled fourth studio album, often referred to as “Led Zeppelin IV”. Known for its complex musical structure and distinctive sound, “Black Dog” has become one of Led Zeppelin’s most iconic songs.
The song stands out for its intricate guitar riffs, played by Jimmy Page, and the dynamic vocal delivery of Robert Plant. The track opens with an immediately recognizable, bluesy guitar riff that is both rhythmic and melodic, accompanied by Plant’s powerful and soulful vocals. Despite its energetic and compelling music, the lyrics of “Black Dog” are relatively cryptic, focusing on themes of desire and longing through the metaphor of a wandering black dog.
“Black Dog” was not released as a single, but it quickly gained widespread acclaim for its innovative sound and complex arrangement. It reached number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100, and its influence has endured over the decades. The song’s driving rhythm, combined with its irregular time signatures and frequent tempo changes, showcased Led Zeppelin’s ability to push the boundaries of rock music. This track is often cited as a prime example of the band’s signature style, blending hard rock with blues influences and showcasing their virtuosity.
The impact of “Black Dog” extends beyond its chart performance. It has been a staple of classic rock radio and continues to be a fan favorite in Led Zeppelin’s live performances. The song’s influence is seen in its numerous covers and the way it has been incorporated into various media and pop culture. It reflects Led Zeppelin’s contribution to the evolution of rock music in the 1970s, setting a high standard for musicianship and songwriting.
In summary, “Black Dog” by Led Zeppelin, released on November 8, 1971, from their album “Led Zeppelin IV”, remains a quintessential track in the rock genre. Its complex guitar riffs, dynamic vocals, and cryptic lyrics showcase the band’s innovative approach to music. The song’s enduring popularity and influence highlight its significance in Led Zeppelin’s discography and its impact on the broader rock music landscape.
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Lyrics
Hey hey mama said the way you moveGonna make you sweat, gonna make you grooveAh, ah, child, way you shake that thingGonna make you burn, gonna make you sting.Hey hey baby when you walk that wayWatch your honey drip, can’t keep awayOh yeah, oh yeah, oh, ah, ahOh yeah, oh yeah, oh, ah, ah.I gotta roll, can’t stand stillGot a flamin’ heart, can’t get my fillEyes that shine, burnin’ redDreams of you all through my headAh ah, ah ah, ah ah, ah ah, ah ah, ah ah, ahhhHey, baby, whoa baby, pretty babyDarlin’ makes ’em do me nowHey, baby, oh baby, pretty babyMove me like you’re doin’ nowDidn’t take too long ‘fore I found outWhat people mean by down and outSpent my money, took my carStarted tellin’ her friends she gonna be a starI don’t know, but I been toldA big-legged woman ain’t got no soulOh yeah, oh yeah, ah, ah, ahOh yeah, oh yeah, ah, ah, ahAll I ask for when I prayA steady rollin’ woman won’t come my wayNeed a woman gonna hold my handTell me no lies, make me a happy manAh ah, ah ah, ah ah, ah ah, ah ah, ah ah, ahhh.Ah, yeah!