Why Stairway To Heaven is banned in Guitar stores
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Why Stairway to Heaven is Banned in Guitar Stores?

If you are a fan of good music, you might have wondered Why Stairway to Heaven is Banned in Guitar Stores?

In this article, we are going to unleash this mystery upon you. Stairway To Heaven has become a classic rock anthem played by guitarists worldwide. But if you’re looking to jam out to this iconic song in music stores, you may be out of luck. Despite its popularity, there are concrete reasons why guitarists can’t play Stairway To Heaven in music stores. This article will discuss the legal and practical considerations that prevent musicians from covering this 1970s classic.

Why Stairway to Heaven is Banned in Guitar Stores?

So, What’s The Problem With This Song?

Few iconic guitar songs compare to Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway To Heaven”. The complexity of the song has made it a difficult challenge for even the most experienced guitarists to master. Many have tried and failed, leaving themselves wondering what the problem is with this piece. 

To answer this question, one must first understand why this song is so hard to play. Firstly, the solo section is considered by many as one of the most challenging pieces ever written for electric guitar. Secondly, several intricate techniques are required to play it properly; from precise fingerpicking patterns and vibrato bends to fast-paced hammer-ons and pull-offs. Finally, due to its slow tempo and complex chords structure, even small mistakes can be heard easily throughout the entire song.

It Probably All Started As A Joke

It Probably All Started As A Joke: Why Stairway to Heaven is Banned in Guitar Stores? 

The iconic song “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin is one of the most beloved rock songs ever. But, when it comes to playing the song on a guitar, why can’t guitarists seem to do it? This conundrum has baffled people for years, and we may finally have an answer — it probably all started as a joke. 

According to some popular theories, the reasoning behind this strange occurrence goes back to the early days of Led Zeppelin when Jimmy Page was teaching his bandmates how to play “Stairway To Heaven”.

Will Playing “Stairway” Really Get You Banished?

The main reason is why guitarists can’t play stairway to heaven in music stores. It seems there is an unwritten rule that says if you play ‘Stairway To Heaven’, you will be banished from the guitar-playing community.

The reason for this prohibition is not immediately apparent. After all, there are countless other songs by Led Zeppelin and other classic rock groups with complex solos just as tricky as ‘Stairway To Heaven’. So why can’t guitarists play this particular song? While some believe it’s simply due to its popularity and familiarity leading to overplayed status, others suggest it’s a matter of respect for the legendary Jimmy Page, who wrote the song.

Other Songs You Probably Shouldn’t Play In A Music Store

Why Stairway to Heaven is Banned in Guitar Stores?

Unfortunately, for those brave enough to take on this beloved classic in public, there is potential for serious consequences. Many music stores nationwide have put an informal ban on playing “Stairway to Heaven” inside their walls out of respect for the legendary band and its owner – Jimmy Page. But it isn’t just this timeless beauty that should be avoided while shopping in a music store; there are other songs guitarists should avoid playing as well.

If you love heavy metal, read: Where did heavy metal generate?

Crazy Train

Crazy Train, a 1980 single by British heavy metal band Ozzy Osbourne, is a classic hard rock anthem beloved by millions. But when it comes to other songs you probably shouldn’t play in a music store, plenty of tracks don’t quite fit into the upbeat atmosphere. Songs about substance abuse, violence, and depression may not be appropriate for customers browsing records and CDs. Even some of the biggest hits from major artists can have questionable subject matter that makes them inappropriate for an environment such as a music store.

Back In Black

Regarding rock music, few songs are as iconic as AC/DC’s “Back in Black.” The 1980 classic is a staple of any good classic rock playlist, but there are other songs you probably shouldn’t play in a music store. From heavy metal anthems to hard-hitting punk jams, here’s a look at some tunes that are best left out of the audio rotation. 

Enter Sandman

The first song to avoid playing is Metallica’s “Enter Sandman.” This heavy metal hit has been covered countless times and even sampled by rap artists like Eminem, but its thunderous riffs and pounding drums can be far too loud for most stores. Another song that may be better off unheard is Guns N’ Roses’ “Welcome to the Jungle.” Its aggressive sound may not jive with what customers expect from their shopping experience.

Iron Man

Iron Man is a classic rock song that generations of music fans have loved. Released as a single in 1968, it quickly became a major hit and is still played on the radio today. But when it comes to playing Iron Man at parties or other social gatherings, there are some songs you should avoid. 

For starters, AC/DC’s version of Iron Man should never be played in a music setting. While the band’s cover of the song was met with critical acclaim, its heavy metal vibe may not suit everyone’s taste in music. Additionally, Led Zeppelin’s rendition of Iron Man lacks the originality and energy found in Black Sabbath’s recording from back in 1970, so if you’re looking for an alternative to Black Sabbath’s version, this one may not be for you either.

Smells Like Teen Spirit

“Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana is a timeless classic, and its iconic presence in popular culture cannot be denied. However, when playing music for an audience, some songs can quickly become overplayed and lose their luster.

Smoke On The Water

The classic rock anthem “Smoke On The Water” has been a staple of guitarists for generations. This iconic riff, written and performed by the legendary band Deep Purple in 1972, is one of the most recognizable songs ever. But why stairway to heaven is banned in guitar stores? While both songs are popular amongst guitar players, they require markedly different techniques to master. 

Sweet Child O’ Mine

It all comes down to musical complexity and difficulty. While many consider “Sweet Child O’ Mine” a challenging song due to its intricate solo sequences, it is nothing compared to the levels of skill needed for “Stairway To Heaven.” The chord progressions in “Stairway To Heaven” are more complicated than those found in “Sweet Child O’ Mine”; from the acoustic introduction to the electric solo passages.

What Is Stairway To Heaven?

Stairway To Heaven is a classic rock song composed and recorded by the English band Led Zeppelin. It was released in 1971 as part of their fourth album, Led Zeppelin IV. Since its release, it has become one of rock music’s most iconic and recognizable songs. The song consists of eight verses, each slowly building up to the powerful chorus featuring Robert Plant’s soaring vocals backed by an unforgettable guitar solo from Jimmy Page. Stairway To Heaven also contains philosophical lyrics about life, making it incredibly popular with fans. The song was ranked number three on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs Of All Time list and continues to be loved by generations of listeners around the world today.

Why Stairway to Heaven is Banned in Guitar Stores?

Who Is Led Zeppelin?

Led Zeppelin is one of the most iconic rock bands from the late 1960s to the early 1970s. They were formed in London, England, in 1968 and consisted of vocalist Robert Plant, guitarist Jimmy Page, bassist John Paul Jones, and drummer John Bonham. Led Zeppelin defined hard rock with their unique blend of blues-influenced riffs and heavy drums. 

The band released nine albums throughout their career, including ‘Led Zeppelin I’, ‘II’, ‘III’, ‘IV’ (also known as ‘Zoso’), ‘Houses Of The Holy,’ ‘Physical Graffiti’ and ‘In Through The Out Door’. All these albums are considered classics within the rock genre.

Led Zeppelin Discography

stairway to heaven

Is There A Proper Music Store Etiquette?

In the 60s and 70s, music stores were a way for people to express their love of music. They provided a place where enthusiasts could find new albums and learn more about the musicians they loved. As these stores have evolved, so have the rules and etiquette guidelines that come with them. So, is there proper music store etiquette? 

The answer is yes! First, when you visit a music store, you must respect the staff and other customers. Allow employees to do their jobs without interruptions and be mindful of what others look at or listen to. It’s also important not to touch any items in the store unless you want to purchase them, as this can lead to unwanted damage or marks on items that can’t always be removed or replaced.

Cleanliness Counts

One common issue that can occur when proper care is not taken is “buckle rash” – a series of scratches on the back of the guitar body caused by clipping the strap buckle against its surface. This type of wear and tear can be easily avoided by regularly cleaning and polishing your guitar with a soft cloth or microfiber towel and an appropriate cleaner designed specifically for guitars. Additionally, always make sure to attach the strap correctly before playing so that it rests off the body as much as possible.

Watch Your Volume Level

Whether you’re jamming with friends or practising alone, it’s essential to remember that playing too loudly may disrupt others around you who aren’t expecting such loud music. The same goes for any practice amp; although they are designed for use in small spaces and soundproof rooms, too much volume may still cause issues for those nearby. That’s why it’s essential to be mindful of your guitar’s loudness when playing – both for yourself and those around you.

Don’t Make A Mess

To avoid any unwanted issues, there are certain precautions one should take when handling equipment: always double-check for any signs of damage before operating it; always use the correct safety gear like gloves, goggles, and earplugs; never use more power than necessary; keep all cords and wires out of reach from children and pets; never leave tools in places where they can get knocked over; clean up any spills or debris as soon as possible.

Recognize And Honor Sales Commission

When deciding how much you should pay in commissions, the most critical factor is that your team feels valued for their efforts. You must recognize your staff’s accomplishments with clear metrics, so they can understand what standards they must meet to receive a bonus. A sound incentive system should incentivize performance beyond just monetary rewards – such as offering recognition for achieving impressive milestones or spotlighting exceptional effort or attitude in front of peers in team meetings.

Final Thoughts: Why Stairway to Heaven is Banned in Guitar Stores?

It is clear that “Stairway to Heaven” is a guitarist’s ultimate challenge. It requires skill, practice, and precision to master the song. The fact that so many have tried and failed speaks volumes about the song’s difficulty. However, it should not be seen as an insurmountable obstacle. With dedication and perseverance, anyone can become proficient in playing this iconic song.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Was Led Zeppelin’s Original Name?

Led Zeppelin’s original name was The New Yardbirds. This name was chosen by founding members Jimmy Page and Jeff Beck in 1968, after the band they had been playing in together, The Yardbirds, disbanded.

Why Did Led Zeppelin Break Up?

In addition to Bonham’s death, other factors likely contributed to the band’s breakup. The members of Led Zeppelin had been together for a long time. They had achieved immense success, so naturally, they would eventually want to pursue different interests and explore new musical directions. Additionally, tensions within the band had grown over the years due to their heavy touring schedule and long recording sessions.

Who Sued Led Zeppelin For Stairway To Heaven?

In 2014, the estate of Randy Craig Wolfe (also known as Randy California), a founding member of the band Spirit, sued Led Zeppelin for copyright infringement. The lawsuit alleged that Led Zeppelin had copied the opening guitar riff from Spirit’s 1968 instrumental “Taurus” for their iconic 1971 song “Stairway to Heaven.” The suit also claimed that Led Zeppelin had heard “Taurus” during their concerts in the late 1960s and early 1970s and that they had been inspired by it when writing “Stairway to Heaven.”

What Is The Hidden Message In Stairway to Heaven?

The hidden message in Led Zeppelin’s famous 1971 song “Stairway to Heaven” is open to interpretation. Some believe the song is about a spiritual journey, with the stairway being a metaphor for ascending to heaven or achieving enlightenment. The lyrics suggest a journey of self-discovery and transformation, with the protagonist learning lessons. Others interpret it as a cautionary tale about materialism and greed, with the protagonist’s focus on money leading them astray from their spiritual path. Ultimately, each listener can remove their meaning from the song depending on their beliefs and life experiences.

Hi, I am abdur rehman! A content writer with 3 years of experience in writing about music, guitars and other musical instruments. My passion for content writing started when I was just a teenager and has grown ever since. Here I make sure to provide fresh perspectives for readers to explore the world of music. From reviews to interviews, each post is written with a unique style that borrows from my personal experiences and knowledge. Keep visiting us if you love reading about music or are looking for some insightful perspective on the same! Try it out - you won't regret it!