About The Song
Led Zeppelin's "The Battle of Evermore" is a captivating track from their fourth studio album, released in 1971. The song stands out as a unique departure from the band's typical hard rock sound, incorporating folk elements and showcasing the multifaceted musical talent of the group. Written by Robert Plant and Jimmy Page, the song features a collaboration with singer-songwriter Sandy Denny, adding a haunting and ethereal quality to the composition. "The Battle of Evermore" draws inspiration from J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth mythology, weaving a tale of epic proportions through its poetic lyrics and intricate musical arrangement.
The song's acoustic foundation, driven by Page's intricate guitar work, sets the stage for a musical journey that transports listeners to a mythical realm. Plant's vocals, delivered with a sense of mystique and urgency, contribute to the narrative's immersive quality. The addition of Sandy Denny's haunting harmonies adds a layer of enchantment, creating a sonic landscape that evokes the folk traditions of old. "The Battle of Evermore" showcases Led Zeppelin's ability to transcend genre boundaries, fusing rock and folk influences into a seamless and timeless piece of art.
Lyrically, "The Battle of Evermore" is a rich tapestry of fantastical imagery and allegory, drawing heavily from Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings." The lyrics describe a mythical battle between light and dark forces, featuring characters and elements reminiscent of Tolkien's literary universe. Plant's poetic storytelling and Denny's ethereal contributions enhance the narrative, creating a song that invites listeners to delve into the depths of its fantasy world. The song's exploration of timeless themes such as war, heroism, and mythology adds a layer of depth that transcends its musicality, making it a thought-provoking and enduring piece.
"The Battle of Evermore" also highlights Led Zeppelin's commitment to musical innovation and experimentation. At a time when the band was synonymous with hard rock and blues-infused anthems, this folk-inspired track showcased their versatility and willingness to explore diverse musical territories. The inclusion of mandolin, played by Jimmy Page, and the seamless integration of acoustic instruments demonstrated Led Zeppelin's mastery of their craft, earning them recognition not just as a rock powerhouse but as musical pioneers willing to push boundaries.
Decades after its release, "The Battle of Evermore" remains a cherished gem in Led Zeppelin's repertoire. Its enduring appeal lies in the band's ability to blend storytelling, musicality, and experimentation seamlessly. The song's mythical themes and timeless sound have cemented its status as a classic, continuing to resonate with both dedicated fans and new generations of music enthusiasts. Led Zeppelin's "The Battle of Evermore" stands as a testament to the band's artistic vision, showcasing their ability to create music that transcends the confines of its era and remains relevant and influential in the ever-evolving landscape of rock and folk music.
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Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
The Queen of Light took her bow
And then she turned to go
The Prince of Peace embraced the gloom
And walked the night alone
Oh, dance in the dark of night
Sing to the morning light
The dark Lord rides in force tonight
And time will tell us all
Oh, throw down your plow and hoe
Rest not to lock your homes
Side by side we wait the might
Of the darkest of them all
I hear the horses' thunder down in the valley below
I'm waiting for the angels of Avalon, waiting for the eastern glow
The apples of the valley hold the seeds of happiness
The ground is rich from tender care
Repay, do not forget, no, no
Dance in the dark of night
Sing to the morning light
The apples turn to brown and black
The tyrant's face is red
Oh war is the common cry
Pick up your swords and fly
The sky is filled with good and bad
That mortals never know
Oh, well, the night is long, the beads of time pass slow
Tired eyes on the sunrise, waiting for the eastern glow
The pain of war cannot exceed the woe of aftermath
The drums will shake the castle wall
The Ringwraiths ride in black, ride on
Sing as you raise your bow
(Ride on)
Shoot straighter than before
No comfort has the fire at night
That lights the face so cold
Oh dance in the dark of night
Sing to the morning light
The magic runes are writ in gold to bring the balance back
Bring it back
At last the sun is shining
The clouds of blue roll by
With flames from the dragon of darkness
The sunlight blinds his eyes
Bring it back, bring it back, bring it back, bring it back
Bring it back, bring it back, bring it back, bring it back
Oh now oh now oh now oh, oh now oh now oh now
Bring it back, bring it back, bring it back, bring it back
Oh now oh now oh now oh, oh now oh now oh now
Bring it bring it bring it bring it
Bring it bring it bring it bring it
Bring it bring it bring it bring it
