“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Going to California” is one of those Led Zeppelin tracks that feels like a personal journey—a gentle acoustic ballad nestled within their 1971 album, Led Zeppelin IV. It’s a departure from their heavier sound, showcasing a more introspective side of the band.
The song paints a vivid picture of a man leaving behind past troubles, setting out for California in search of a fresh start and perhaps a muse. Robert Plant’s lyrics reflect a longing for something pure and new, capturing the spirit of adventure and the hope of finding a place where dreams align with reality.
Musically, it’s a delicate blend of Jimmy Page’s acoustic guitar and John Paul Jones’s mandolin, creating a serene backdrop for Plant’s evocative vocals. The simplicity of the arrangement allows the listener to be fully immersed in the storytelling, making it a standout track that resonates on a deeply personal level.
In their 1975 performance at Earls Court, Led Zeppelin brought “Going to California” to life with an intimacy that contrasted beautifully with the grandeur of the venue. The acoustic set, featuring this song, offered a moment of reflection amidst their typically electrifying performances, highlighting the band’s versatility and depth.
This rendition is celebrated for its authenticity and the palpable connection between the band and the audience. It’s a testament to Led Zeppelin’s ability to traverse musical landscapes, from hard rock to tender ballads, all while maintaining their unique essence.
For those who appreciate live performances that capture the heart of a song, the Earls Court version of “Going to California” is a must-watch. It not only showcases the band’s musical prowess but also their capacity to convey profound emotion through their art.
Video
Lyrics
Spent my days with a woman unkind
Smoked my stuff and drank all my wine
Made up my mind to make a new start
Going to California with an aching in my heart
Someone told me there’s a girl out there
With love in her eyes and flowers in her hair
Took my chances on a big jet plane
Never let ’em tell you that they’re all the same
The sea was red and the sky was grey
Wondered how tomorrow could ever follow today
The mountains and the canyons start to tremble and shake
As the children of the sun began to awake (watch out)
Seems that the wrath of the gods
Got a punch on the nose, and it started to flow
I think I might be sinking
Throw me a line, if I reach it in time
I’ll meet you up there where the path runs straight and high
To find a queen without a king
They say she plays guitar and cries and sings
La la la la
Ride a white mare in the footsteps of dawn
Trying to find a woman who’s never, never, never been born
Standing on a hill in my mountain of dreams
Telling myself it’s not as hard, hard, hard as it seems