If I was asked to name a song that filled me with a sense of hope, I would instantly say Going to California by Led Zeppelin (1971). Not only because it is one of the most beautiful songs I know, but also because it tells a first-person narrative of a man in search of a better, more fulfilling life. Whilst at face-value it may seem as though this song is simply a fictional story, with a little digging you will actually find that it is so much more than just that. In fact, the lyrics encapsulate Plant’s reminisce for the early days of the band when they first went to California in search of the life they were watching so many other musical legends lead. The tender and raw vocals throughout evoke this very sense of longing that never fails to stun me no matter how many times I listen.
As stated by Plant in a number of interviews, the band were inspired by the likes of Joni Mitchell and Graham Nash who each moved to the Californian neighbourhood of Laurel Canyon to surround themselves with other like-minded individuals. And, to state the obvious, it is clear that Going to California was heavily inspired by these musicians. Listen to Graham Nash’s (1971) Better Days and Joni Mitchell’s Blue album produced in the same year, and you will find a number of similarities; from the whimsical vocals to the beautifully melancholic guitar riffs that evoke the very same hopefulness as Led Zeppelin.
Over the past few years I have come to realise just how special of a band Led Zeppelin are to me. My first memories of hearing their music come from long journeys in the old family camper van driving to spend various rainy weekends in Cornish campsites. In fact, I explicitly remember my brother, Joe, proudly proclaiming that Zeppelin were his favourite band at the age of about 8! I find it funny looking back to this now as it seems at that time my brother’s musical appreciation was much more advanced than mine (let’s be honest, I was probably more concerned with listening to whatever the latest Now That’s What I Call Music! CD was). However, now, whether I’m listening to Stairway to Heaven, Kashmir, or Going to California, I am filled with an emotive mix of yearning for a simpler time (much like Led Zeppelin), fond memories of my childhood, and future inspiration.
So, thank you to my parents for making me listen to Led Zeppelin at such a young age as it really has shaped the way I listen to music now.