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Introduction
“How Many More Times” stands as the grand finale of Led Zeppelin’s groundbreaking 1969 debut album, encapsulating the band’s raw energy and innovative spirit. Spanning over eight minutes, this track is a dynamic fusion of blues roots and rock experimentation, showcasing the band’s ability to blend diverse influences into a cohesive and electrifying performance.
The song’s structure is a tapestry of various musical segments, including spontaneous jams and nods to blues classics. Notably, it incorporates elements from Howlin’ Wolf’s “How Many More Years” and Albert King’s “The Hunter,” weaving these inspirations into their own unique sound. Jimmy Page’s use of a bowed guitar adds an eerie, otherworldly texture, a technique he employed in only a few tracks, enhancing the song’s mystique.
Lyrically, “How Many More Times” delves into themes of longing and unrequited love, with Robert Plant’s impassioned vocals conveying a sense of yearning and vulnerability. The narrative traverses through tales of romantic pursuits and heartaches, resonating with the universal human experience of desire and loss.
A pivotal moment in the song’s history is its live performance on March 17, 1969, at the Gladsaxe Teen Club in Denmark, recorded for Danmarks Radio. This rendition captures Led Zeppelin’s early stage presence and improvisational prowess, offering a glimpse into their evolving artistry. The performance was later featured on the official Led Zeppelin DVD released in 2003, allowing fans to witness the band’s youthful dynamism.
“How Many More Times” is more than just a song; it’s a journey through Led Zeppelin’s early exploration of musical boundaries, blending traditional blues with their burgeoning hard rock identity. Its enduring appeal lies in its rich composition and the palpable emotion that the band poured into both the studio recording and live performances, cementing its place as a timeless piece in rock history.
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Lyrics
How many more times, treat me the way you wanna do
How many more times, treat me the way you wanna do
When I give you all my love, please, please be true
I’ll give you all I’ve got to give, rings, pearls, and all
I’ll give you all I’ve got to give, rings, pearls, and all
I’ve got to get you together baby, I’m sure, sure you’re gonna crawl
I was a young man, I couldn’t resist
Started thinkin’ it over, just what I had missed
Got me a girl and I kissed her and then and then
Whoops, oh lord, well I did it again
Now I’ve got ten children of my own
I got another child on the way that makes eleven
But I’m in constant heaven
I know it’s all right in my mind
‘Cause I got a little schoolgirl and she’s all mine
I can’t get through to her ’cause it doesn’t permit
But I’m gonna give her everything I’ve got to give
Oh, Rosie, oh, girl, oh, Rosie, oh, yeah
Steal away now, steal away
Steal away, baby, steal away
Little Robert Anthony wants to come and play
Why don’t you come for me, baby, steal away, alright, alright
Well, they call me the hunter, that’s my name
Call me the hunter, that’s how I got my fame
Ain’t no need to hide, ain’t no need to run
‘Cause I’ve got you in the sights of my gun
How many more times, barrel house all night long
How many more times, barrel house all night long
Well I’ve got to get to you, baby, oh, please come home
Why don’t you listen to me, babe
Why don’t you please come home
Why don’t you please come home
Why don’t you please come home