Classic Rock 'Gem' of the Week - What is And Should Never Be by Led Zeppelin

In this weeks classic rock 'gem' of the week, we take a visit to the vaults of Led Zeppelin to unearth surely one of their best, but often neglected songs. 'What is and What Should Never Be', from the 1969 Led Zeppelin II album is just pure genius, and one of my personal favorites from Led Zeppelin.

Allegedly about a romance between Robert Plant and wife's sister (hence the song title), 'What is Should Never Be' goes from dizzying, Robert Plant shrieking maniacal highs, to gentle bluesy lows. Particularly amazing in this song is Jimmy Page's great blues slide guitar solos combined with a brilliant John Paul Jones bassline.

If you haven't heard this great song in a while, here is a great live version of it from the Royal Albert Hall:

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Permalink Reply by Robert Joseph on July 25, 2009 at 11:56am

A very cool track to pull out of the vault Rich! Me being a guitar played, this is one of Zeps I love to play to. Especially the outo, so simple but so cool. Thanks for sharing!!! RJ

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Permalink Reply by Mic on July 30, 2009 at 9:37pm

I know Most people catch that hit single that becomes the staple of a band, and thats what hooks them to following that band.
For me And Zeppelin, I think this was the 1st song I ever heard by them, at the local beach where I live, 12yrs. old back in 1990...and I was hooked .. Its not my Favorite Zep Tune, but It deffently turned me on to Zep..

My Fav.. Since I've been Lovin You!! & Moby Dick,, Ten years Gone ...
Just To Many!!!!