Background Information
Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song” is arguably one of the most iconic rock songs of all time. Written by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant, the song was released in 1970 on the band’s third album, Led Zeppelin III. It was an instant hit with audiences, becoming one of the band’s most identifiable tracks and initiating them as a major force in rock. Since then, the song has been covered by countless other musicians, graced movie soundtracks and various advertising campaigns, and has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Learning to Play
“Immigrant Song” is traditionally performed in only four chords. However, in different parts of the song, variations in those chords are used. To play the song as written, it’s helpful to understand the roles of the different instruments. The main riff is played on a distorted electric guitar. When the song transitions into the verses, two acoustic guitars are used to provide harmony and counter melody.
The emphasis when learning to play this song should be on capturing the feel of the riff, which is played by both the electric and acoustic guitars. To learn the rhythm guitar part, it is best to start by practicing the main rhythm riff slow and gradually increasing the speed. Once the main part is ready, practice adding the fills that are played in between the verses. Pay attention to the way the song builds up when approaching the chorus – an energized sound is achieved by playing the tonic followed by the 5th degree and the 4th degree of the scale.
Additional Tips
Besides developing a good feel for the song’s riff, “Immigrant Song” should also delivered with the same energy that the original was. To recreate Jimmy Page’s sound, it is important to focus on playing the correct notes with a proper tone. Turn up the gain on the amplifier and experiment with different concentrations of distortion by tweaking the EQ settings. Consider adding some vibrato at times and try palm muting the chord progressions to create additional dynamics. Double-tracks and mutes can also be used to replicate the sound of the studio version.
Developing Solos
Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song” is a great track to use for learning how to improvise. To recreate Jimmy Page’s guitar solos, it’s important to become familiar with the pentatonic minor scale. A good starting point for creating solos is to play the main riffs from the song in different keys. This will help to develop the skill of jumping among different positions of the fretboard. After becoming comfortable with the scale pattern, try to come up with melodies that also include variations such as bends and hammer-ons.
It is also helpful to develop the skill of playing in odd time signatures. Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song” is performed in 4/4 but the guitar solo is played in 3/4. This is a great way to challenge oneself and break out of the bubble of playing blues in 4/4. Begin by breaking a 4/4 measure down into three equal parts and then try to improvise with the same non-linear patterns you would usually use.
Recreating the Drumbeat
The drumbeat of Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song” is iconic. To recreate it, it is important to have a good feel for it and then practice different dynamics. Start by playing the same beat on a quarter note basis and then gradually move up to 8th notes. Aim to add some light crash cymbal accents and light snare rolls. Create energy by adding a backbeat to the hi-hat patterns.
Most importantly, listen to the original song often and practice thefill in specific places to replicate John Bonham’s famous rhythms. One trick for recreating the dynamics of Bonham’s playing is to use dynamics when going between the snare and the toms. The trick is to start soft and then become louder. This technique can be used to create an effect similar to Bonham’s playing.
Developing the Vocals
The vocals for Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song” are equally iconic. To recreate Robert Plant’s wail, it is important to work on developing a full range and good control of vibrato and vibrato articulation. Start by practicing singing scales and singing the chorus of the song. Add vibrato for emphasis in certain parts and gradually increase the amount of vibrato as the song builds up to the chorus. Aim to match the dynamics of the guitar, adding more power and range as the song progresses.
When it comes to nailing the lyrics, listen to the original song often to become familiar with the vocals. Practice singing along to the song to get the cadence, rhythm and pronunciation right. Putting all the pieces together – tone, vibrato, dynamics, and lyrics – is the key to really delivering a convincing performance.
Live Performance Implementation
When it comes to playing Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song” in a live setting, it is important to nail the feel of the song. To accomplish this, the entire band must be in sync and work together to create tension, resolution, and dynamics. The key is to break down the song and practice each part individually until the song starts to sound cohesive.
Once the individual parts are ready, focus on section transitions. Pay attention to the way the song flows and the small details that lead to the chorus. This is especially true for the drum and bass parts, which should get progressively louder as the song nears its climax. Remember to stay in the pocket and stay dynamic when playing live.
Recording Run Throughs
Recording Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song” requires a good understanding of the song and its various elements. Start by experimenting with different sound sources and microphone placements to recreate the original studio sound. Work with the engineer to set the right timbre and tone when tracking the guitars. Ensure that each instrument cuts through individually to add clarity and depth to the mix.
Before committing any parts to the recording, make sure to practice multiple run throughs. Focus on maintaining strong dynamics, building tension, and creating energy that leads towards the chorus. Once the parts are recorded, have the engineer add any additional effects for additional character and dimension.
The Engineer’s Role
Finally, the engineer’s role is essential when it comes to recording Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song”. A good engineer will be able to guide and shape the sound in a way that highlights each instrument’s contribution and adds depth and character to the overall mix. When tracking, the engineer will be able to dial in the right EQ settings, compressors, and reverbs to capture the essence of the track.
When mixing, the engineer will work with the band to get the individual mixes to gel in the mix. This means experimenting with different panning, layering, and aux sends. Additionally, the engineer will be adding subtle elements such as dynamic automation and stereo effects to make the track sound more dimensional.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to play Led Zeppelin’s “Immigrant Song” is an art form. It requires an understanding of the rhythm, dynamics, riffs, and melody. As with any song, it is important to stay true to the original and then let individual creativity make it unique. When recording, it is important to focus on recreating the dynamic range of the original and working with the engineer to make sure every element is audible in the mix. This is the best way to create a powerful and emotive rendition of “Immigrant Song” that will captivate any audience.