Led Zeppelin – Trampled Under Foot: A Raucous Funk-Rock Anthem
In the realm of rock music, Led Zeppelin stands as a towering figure, their music a potent blend of blues, hard rock, and psychedelic influences. Among their extensive discography, “Trampled Under Foot” holds a unique place, a raucous funk-rock anthem that showcases the band’s versatility and their ability to push the boundaries of the genre.
Background
Released in 1975 as the opening track of their double album Physical Graffiti, “Trampled Under Foot” marked a departure from Led Zeppelin’s usual heavy rock sound, incorporating elements of funk and disco into their signature style. The song’s opening riff, a funky guitar line played by Jimmy Page, sets the stage for a relentless groove that propels the song forward.
Robert Plant’s vocals are at their raspy best, delivering the song’s lyrics with a swagger and confidence that perfectly capture the song’s infectious energy. His lyrics, full of double entendres and playful innuendo, add a layer of sensuality to the song’s driving rhythm.
The song’s chorus is a memorable call-and-response affair, with Plant and the backing vocals trading lines like “I’m gonna trample on you, girl/I’m gonna trample on you.” The repetition of the phrase “Trampled Under Foot” creates a sense of urgency and excitement, while the band’s instrumental interplay adds layers of texture and complexity to the arrangement.
John Paul Jones’s keyboards provide a funky backbone to the song, his clavinet and organ adding a touch of soul and grit to the mix. John Bonham’s drumming is as powerful as ever, his driving beats and thunderous fills providing the foundation for the song’s relentless groove.
“Trampled Under Foot” quickly became a live favorite, with Led Zeppelin performing it regularly throughout their career. The song’s energy and infectious groove made it a crowd-pleaser, and its unique blend of funk and rock made it a standout in their setlist.
The song’s influence on rock music is undeniable, with its funky rhythms and raucous energy inspiring countless bands in the decades since its release. “Trampled Under Foot” remains a testament to Led Zeppelin’s versatility and their ability to create music that is both innovative and timeless.
Video
Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was written by Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, and John Paul Jones.
- It was released in 1975 as the opening track of Led Zeppelin’s double album Physical Graffiti.
- The song reached number 61 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
- “Trampled Under Foot” has been covered by numerous artists, including Guns N’ Roses, Robert Palmer, and The Black Crowes.
Chorus: I’m gonna trample on you, girl I’m gonna trample on you I’m gonna trample on you, girl I’m gonna trample on you