A Gentle Interlude: Unveiling Led Zeppelin’s “That’s the Way”
Ah, Led Zeppelin. The very name conjures images of thunderous riffs, Robert Plant’s soaring vocals, and John Bonham’s earth-quaking drums. They were the titans of hard rock, forever etching their mark on the landscape of music history. But amidst the electrifying anthems and blues-tinged epics lies a quieter gem – the introspective ballad, “That’s the Way”.
Background
Released in 1970 on their self-titled third album, “That’s the Way” stands as a stark contrast to the band’s usual sonic palette. Here, the bombast is replaced by a delicate folk-rock tapestry woven with acoustic guitars, John Paul Jones’s lilting mandolin, and a subtle touch of percussion in the later sections.
The song’s origins themselves are a testament to Led Zeppelin’s versatility. According to Jimmy Page, the mastermind behind the band’s sonic explorations, “That’s the Way” was born during a creative retreat at Bron-Yr-Aur cottage in Wales [Wikipedia, Led Zeppelin III]. After a long walk through the serene Welsh countryside, Page stumbled upon the melody, and with Robert Plant by his side, they fleshed out the song with just a guitar and a tape recorder. The original working title, “The Boy Next Door”, hints at the song’s lyrical themes.
On the surface, “That’s the Way” appears to be a simple narrative about a forbidden friendship. The protagonist, likely a young man, grapples with his parents’ disapproval of a friend from the “wrong side of town.” The lyrics paint a picture of societal prejudice based on appearance and socioeconomic background – the friend’s “hair hang[ing] down” and “shoes foreign” becoming symbols of difference.
However, the song resonates on a deeper level. “That’s the Way” can be interpreted as a reflection on the generation gap and the clash between youthful rebellion and established norms. It could also be seen as a commentary on the social and cultural upheavals of the late 1960s, where societal norms were being challenged and traditional hierarchies questioned.
“That’s the Way” is more than just a poignant social commentary. It’s a testament to Led Zeppelin’s ability to transcend genre. While the band is known for their electrifying hard rock, “That’s the Way” showcases their quieter side, their ability to craft intimate and introspective moments.
The song’s gentle melody and introspective lyrics offer a welcome respite from the sonic fury of Led Zeppelin’s usual output. It’s a testament to their musical dexterity and their willingness to explore uncharted territories within their sound. “That’s the Way” stands as a unique and enduring gem within Led Zeppelin’s vast catalog, a quiet whisper amidst the band’s thunderous roar.