The Led Zeppelin rif that John Paul Jones is credited with. Led Zeppelin’s “Black Dog” remains one of the most mesmerizing and technically intriguing rock ‘n’ roll songs of all time.
The track is built around a twisting syncopated riff that seems to pull and push against the beat, locking into a groove that feels almost impossible to predict. While most listeners might think that Jimmy page was responsible for the famous riff. It was actually formulated by John Paul Jones.……WATCH VIDEO
John Paul Jones: The Unsung Architect Behind Led Zeppelin’s “Black Dog”
In the pantheon of rock music, Led Zeppelin’s “Black Dog” stands as a testament to the band’s innovative spirit and musical prowess. While guitarist Jimmy Page often receives accolades for his iconic riffs, it’s bassist and keyboardist John Paul Jones who conceived the song’s intricate main riff, showcasing his significant yet sometimes underappreciated contributions to the band’s legacy.
The Genesis of the Riff
John Paul Jones’s inspiration for “Black Dog” stemmed from his admiration for blues music, particularly a track from Muddy Waters’ 1968 album Electric Mud. He aimed to craft a riff that was both repetitive and unpredictable, challenging the conventional structures of rock music. Jones recounted that he penned the riff during a train ride home from a rehearsal at Jimmy Page’s house. Utilizing a notation system taught by his father, he jotted down the idea on the back of a train ticket, capturing the essence of the riff that would become the backbone of “Black Dog” .(
Navigating Complex Rhythms
The riff’s complexity lies in its shifting time signatures and syncopated rhythms. Initially composed in 3/16 time, the band found it challenging to maintain the groove. Drummer John Bonham adapted by playing a steady 4/4 beat throughout, allowing the song’s rhythm to ebb and flow around his consistent drumming. This interplay between the instruments created a dynamic tension, making “Black Dog” a masterclass in rhythmic innovation .(
Collaborative Composition
While Jones laid the foundation with his riff, the collaborative nature of Led Zeppelin’s songwriting process brought “Black Dog” to fruition. Jimmy Page added layers of guitar work, and Robert Plant contributed lyrics and vocal melodies, drawing inspiration from blues themes of desire and betrayal. The song’s title, intriguingly, was inspired by a black Labrador retriever that wandered around the Headley Grange studio during recording sessions .(
Enduring Legacy
“Black Dog” debuted as the opening track on Led Zeppelin’s untitled fourth album, commonly referred to as Led Zeppelin IV, in 1971. The song quickly became a staple in the band’s live performances and has been celebrated for its intricate composition and powerful delivery. Its enduring popularity underscores the innovative spirit that John Paul Jones brought to Led Zeppelin, solidifying his role as a pivotal force in the band’s success.()
For a deeper dive into the creation of “Black Dog” and John Paul Jones’s instrumental role, you can watch the following video:
