Essential Listening #54: Going To California

My Comments

Music is so magical. After all this time when I hear this song I remember listening to it at my friend’s house (Tuffly Lind). My mind always goes there when I hear this song. That was over 50 years ago. This song is another example of open tuning used by Page. It uses double drop D tuning. Just like The Rain Song, I didn’t realize this song used open tuning until years later.

Details

“Going to California” is a poignant and introspective song by Led Zeppelin, featured on their fourth studio album, commonly referred to as Led Zeppelin IV. It showcases a softer, more acoustic side of the band, contrasting with their heavier rock sound. Here’s an in-depth look at “Going to California”:

Background and Composition

• Release: The song was released on November 8, 1971, as part of Led Zeppelin IV.
• Songwriters: “Going to California” was written by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant.
• Recording: The song was recorded at Island Studios in London, with additional sessions at Headley Grange, a remote country house in Hampshire, England, where the band captured much of the album’s acoustic work.

Structure and Style

• Genre: The song is a blend of folk rock and acoustic rock, characterized by its gentle acoustic instrumentation and introspective lyrics.
• Length: The track runs for approximately 3 minutes and 32 seconds.
• Instrumentation:
  • Jimmy Page: Acoustic guitar.
  • Robert Plant: Lead vocals.
  • John Paul Jones: Mandolin.
  • John Bonham: Unlike most Led Zeppelin tracks, Bonham does not play on this song, highlighting its acoustic nature.

Musical Elements

• Introduction:
  • The song begins with a delicate acoustic guitar intro by Jimmy Page, setting a tranquil and reflective tone.
• Verse and Melody:
  • Robert Plant’s vocals enter softly, with a heartfelt and wistful delivery that complements the song’s themes of longing and searching.
  • The mandolin, played by John Paul Jones, adds a melodic layer that enhances the song’s folk-inspired sound.
• Chorus and Dynamics:
  • The song maintains a consistent, mellow dynamic throughout, focusing on the interplay between the acoustic guitar and mandolin.
  • Plant’s vocal performance is nuanced and emotive, capturing the song’s introspective mood.
• Coda:
  • The song concludes with a gentle fade-out, leaving a lasting impression of serenity and reflection.

Themes and Lyrics

• Themes: “Going to California” explores themes of longing, escapism, and the search for peace and meaning. It reflects a desire to leave behind the chaos of life and find solace in the idealized setting of California.
• Inspiration: The song was inspired by the folk scene of the late 1960s and early 1970s, as well as Plant’s admiration for the California lifestyle. It is also believed to have been influenced by singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, whom Plant admired.

Production and Innovation

• Acoustic Arrangement: The song’s acoustic arrangement showcases Led Zeppelin’s versatility and ability to create intimate, introspective music alongside their heavier rock tracks.
• Guitar Work: Jimmy Page’s acoustic guitar playing is central to the song’s sound, featuring fingerpicking patterns that create a soothing and melodic backdrop.

Reception and Impact

• Critical Acclaim: “Going to California” is widely praised for its lyrical depth, acoustic beauty, and emotional resonance. It is often considered one of Led Zeppelin’s finest acoustic tracks.
• Album Success: Led Zeppelin IV is one of the best-selling albums of all time, and “Going to California” contributes to its reputation as a classic rock masterpiece.

Live Performances

• Acoustic Sets: The song was often performed as part of the band’s acoustic sets during live concerts, showcasing their ability to captivate audiences with more subdued performances.
• Notable Concerts: “Going to California” was featured in many of Led Zeppelin’s live shows, including their legendary 1975 Earls Court concerts and 1977 U.S. tour.

Cover Versions and Influence

• Covers: The song has been covered by various artists, reflecting its enduring appeal and influence across genres. Notable covers include performances by Heart and Sheryl Crow.
• Influence: “Going to California” has inspired musicians in both the rock and folk music scenes, highlighting Led Zeppelin’s impact on a wide range of artists.