About The Song
Led Zeppelin's "What Is and What Should Never Be" is a masterful exploration of musicality and emotion that showcases the band's ability to seamlessly blend rock, blues, and folk elements. Released in 1969 as part of their second studio album, "Led Zeppelin II," the song stands out as a dynamic and multifaceted piece that highlights the band's artistic depth. Composed by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant, the track weaves together complex arrangements, powerful vocals, and poignant lyrics, contributing to its enduring appeal.
From the opening notes, "What Is and What Should Never Be" captivates listeners with its distinctive guitar riff and dynamic shifts in tempo. Jimmy Page's guitar work, characterized by his iconic blend of intricate fingerpicking and electrifying solos, sets the tone for the entire composition. The song seamlessly transitions between subdued, melodic verses and explosive, riff-driven choruses, creating a musical journey that keeps the audience engaged throughout. John Bonham's drumming and John Paul Jones's bass provide a solid foundation, allowing for the exploration of various musical textures within the piece.
Robert Plant's vocals are a standout element, showcasing both vulnerability and power. His delivery of the lyrics, which explore the complexities of love and relationships, adds an emotional layer to the song. The lyrics themselves navigate themes of desire, longing, and the contrast between reality and fantasy, contributing to the song's depth and relatability. Plant's vocal performance is a testament to his ability to convey a range of emotions, from introspective moments to soaring, anthemic choruses.
The song's instrumental bridge, featuring a slide guitar solo from Jimmy Page, is a highlight that further demonstrates the band's virtuosity. The interplay between the instruments creates a sonic landscape that is both intricate and immersive. This instrumental section, coupled with Plant's vocal prowess, elevates "What Is and What Should Never Be" beyond a typical rock song, solidifying its place as a classic in Led Zeppelin's repertoire.
Beyond its musical brilliance, the song also reflects the band's willingness to experiment with diverse influences. The incorporation of folk-inspired acoustic elements, especially in the verses, adds a layer of complexity to the composition. Led Zeppelin's ability to seamlessly blend different genres, from blues to folk to hard rock, is evident in "What Is and What Should Never Be," showcasing the band's innovative approach to their craft.
In conclusion, Led Zeppelin's "What Is and What Should Never Be" is a testament to the band's musical prowess and artistic vision. Its dynamic composition, emotional depth, and genre-blending elements contribute to its enduring status as a classic rock masterpiece. The song not only captures the spirit of the late '60s but also transcends its era, remaining a timeless example of Led Zeppelin's contribution to the evolution of rock music.
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Lyrics
Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
And if I say to you tomorrow
"Take my hand, child, come with me
It's to a castle I will take you
Where what's to be, they say will be."
Catch the wind
See us spin
Sail away
Leave today
Way up high in the sky
But the wind won't blow
You really shouldn't go
It only goes to show
That you will be mine
By taking our time
And if you say to me tomorrow
Oh what fun it all would be
Then what's to stop us, pretty baby
But what is and what should never be
Catch the wind
See us spin
Sail away
Leave today
Way up high
In the sky
But the wind won't blow
You really shouldn't go
It only goes to show
That you will be mine
By taking our time
So if you wake up with the sunrise
And all your dreams are still as new
And happiness is what you need so bad
Girl, the answer lies with you
Catch the wind
See us spin
Sail away
Leave today
Way up high
In the sky
But the wind won't blow
You really shouldn't go
It only goes to show
That you will be mine
By taking our time
Oh the wind won't blow
And we really shouldn't go
And it only goes to show
Catch the wind
We're gonna see it spin
We're gonna sail
Leave today
Do do do, bop bop a do-oh. My my my my my my yeah
Everybody I know seems to know me well
But they're never going to know that I move like hell
Baby, baby, baby, baby, baby, baby. Oh Lord
Baby baby babe. Huh? Oh I love ya
Do no no no no no no. C'mon now
I want you now
