Led Zeppelin – Trampled Under Foot

About the song

Fleetwood Mac‘s “The Chain” stands as a monumental piece in rock history, encapsulating the essence of the band’s tumultuous dynamics and unparalleled musical synergy. Released as part of their critically acclaimed 1977 album, “Rumours”, this track is a testament to the band’s ability to turn personal strife into musical gold.

At its core, “The Chain” is a song about betrayal, heartache, and resilience. The lyrics poignantly reflect the strained relationships within the band, particularly the romantic entanglements and subsequent breakups between members. Despite these personal challenges, Fleetwood Mac managed to come together to create one of their most enduring songs. The collaborative nature of “The Chain” is unique; it is the only track on the “Rumours” album credited to all five members of the band: Stevie Nicks, Lindsey Buckingham, Christine McVie, John McVie, and Mick Fleetwood.

The song’s structure is both innovative and compelling, starting with a haunting guitar riff that sets the tone for the emotive journey ahead. As the verses unfold, Buckingham’s crisp vocals convey a sense of urgency and raw emotion. The chorus, underscored by McVie’s steady bass line and Fleetwood’s precise drumming, builds into a powerful declaration: “And if you don’t love me now, you will never love me again. I can still hear you saying you would never break the chain.”

One of the most iconic elements of “The Chain” is its dramatic mid-section, where the tempo shifts and John McVie’s bass line takes center stage. This segment, often referred to as the “bass breakdown,” has become one of the most recognizable bass lines in rock music. It propels the song forward, leading to an explosive finale that encapsulates the intense emotions embedded in the track.

Beyond its musical brilliance, “The Chain” has a timeless quality that has allowed it to remain relevant across generations. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and even as the theme for Formula 1 racing coverage, further cementing its place in popular culture.

Listening to “The Chain” today, one can still feel the palpable energy and passion that Fleetwood Mac poured into this song. It’s a testament to their artistry and resilience, showing how even in the face of personal discord, they could create something profoundly beautiful and enduring. This track, with its powerful lyrics, intricate instrumentation, and emotional depth, continues to captivate audiences, making it a cornerstone of Fleetwood Mac’s legacy.

Video

Lyrics

Greasy slicked down
Groovy leather trim
I like the way you hold the road
Mama, it ain’t no sin

Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout

Ooh, trouble-free transmission
Helps your oils flow
Mama, let me pump your gas
Mama, let me do it all

Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout

Check that heavy metal
Underneath your hood
Baby, I can work all night
Believe I got the perfect tools

Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout

Automobile with comfort
Really built with style
Specialist tradition
Mama, let me feast my eyes

Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout

Factory air-conditioned
Heat begins to rise
Guaranteed to run for hours
Mama, you’re the perfect size

Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout

Grooving on the freeway
Gauges all are red
Gun down on my gasoline
Believe I’m gonna crack your head

Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout

I can’t stop talking about
I can’t stop talking about
Ooh, yeah, yes
Drive on
Ooh, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yes
I’m coming through

Come to me for service
Every hundred miles
Baby, let me check your points
Fix your overdrive

Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout

Ooh yeah, fully automatic
Comes in any size
Makes me wonder what I did
Before we synchronized

Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout

Ooh, feather-light suspension
Konis couldn’t hold
I’m so glad I took a look
Inside your showroom doors

Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout love
Talking ’bout
Oh, I can’t
Oh, I can’t

Oh, I can’t stop talking about love
I can’t stop talking about love
Ooh, let me go on down, go on down
Go on down, go on down, go on down, yeah

I can’t stop talking about
I can’t stop talking about love, oh yeah
I can’t stop talking about love or my baby
I can’t stop talking about love, my baby
My baby, my baby, yeah

Push, push
Push it
Push, push
Ooh