11 Underrated Led Zeppelin Songs: Zeppelin’s Secret Playlist

Hey fellow music enthusiasts, it’s TBone here from Level Tunes! If there’s one thing I love more than spinning tracks, it’s diving deep into the discographies of iconic bands and unearthing those hidden gems.

Now, I think we can all agree that Led Zeppelin is a powerhouse, but with their mainstream hits overshadowing some of their lesser-known masterpieces, I felt it was high time we shine a spotlight on them.

So, I’ve compiled a list of 11 underrated Led Zeppelin songs that every DJ, music lover, or casual listener needs to hear.

Trust me, these tracks are gold just waiting to be rediscovered! Let’s rock on!

Here are the underrated Led Zeppelin songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Led Zeppelin Songs

Underrated Led Zeppelin songs in a list format:

“The Rover”

Album: Physical Graffiti (1975) | Label: Swan Song Records

“The Rover” is an absolute treasure buried in the legendary double album, “Physical Graffiti.” Its groove-laden riff serves as a perfect reminder of Page’s incredible guitar craftsmanship. The song was written by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant. The essence of the track feels like an expedition, a journey, and the name “The Rover” perfectly encapsulates that. I chose this song because of its pulsating energy that often goes unnoticed. The intricate guitar works and Bonham’s steady drumming perfectly complement Plant’s vocals, making it an unforgettable number.

“Down by the Seaside”

Album: Physical Graffiti (1975) | Label: Swan Song Records

A gentle, melodic song that contrasts many of Led Zeppelin’s hard-rocking numbers. Written by Page and Plant, it paints a serene picture of a day at the beach. The song’s calmness paired with the subtle melancholy resonates deeply. I picked this song because of its sheer simplicity and the duality of emotions it presents. Jones on the keyboard and Page’s gentle guitar strums make this a unique piece in the Zeppelin catalog.

“In the Light”

Album: Physical Graffiti (1975) | Label: Swan Song Records

Another gem from “Physical Graffiti,” this song, written by Jones, Page, and Plant, showcases the band’s experimental side. It starts with a haunting intro by Jones on the synthesizer, transitioning into a rhythmic saga led by Page’s guitar. It’s a track about spiritual enlightenment and personal growth. I love it for its deep introspection, musical innovation, and the ethereal vibes it imparts.

“Boogie with Stu”

Album: Physical Graffiti (1975) | Label: Swan Song Records

This boogie-woogie number featuring Ian Stewart (of the Rolling Stones) on piano is an homage to early rock ‘n’ roll. Written by all the Zeppelin members along with Ian Stewart, its playful nature makes it stand out. I chose it for its raw, unplugged feel and the joy it brings, reminding us of Zeppelin’s versatility.

“Bron-Yr-Aur”

Album: Physical Graffiti (1975) | Label: Swan Song Records

Named after a cottage in Wales where Page and Plant wrote many songs, this instrumental acoustic track is an ode to simplicity. Written solely by Jimmy Page, it’s an exquisite display of his acoustic skills. It’s the serenity and beauty of “Bron-Yr-Aur” that makes it a must-listen for me.

“Ten Years Gone”

Album: Physical Graffiti (1975) | Label: Swan Song Records

A poignant track about lost love and the passage of time, written by Page and Plant. The layered guitar work by Page is exceptional, and Plant’s heartfelt vocals give the track its soul. I always felt this song deserved more recognition for the emotions it stirs.

“Night Flight”

Album: Physical Graffiti (1975) | Label: Swan Song Records

Penned by Jones, Page, and Plant, this track is full of zest and showcases the band’s rock ‘n’ roll essence. The song revolves around evasion from military draft but is also about freedom. I love it for its straightforward rock approach and the stellar rhythm section from Jones and Bonham.

“The Battle of Evermore”

Album: Led Zeppelin IV (1971) | Label: Atlantic Records

Featuring the vocals of Sandy Denny alongside Robert Plant, this folk-rock ballad draws inspiration from mythology. Written by Page and Plant, its mandolin-driven melody is enchanting. The song stands out for its mythical allure, and the interplay between Denny and Plant’s vocals.

“That’s the Way”

Album: Led Zeppelin III (1970) | Label: Atlantic Records

A soft acoustic number from their third album, this track by Page and Plant reflects on childhood memories and societal changes. It’s the delicate, introspective nature of the song, paired with the masterful acoustic arrangement that makes it one of my top choices.

“Carouselambra”

Album: In Through the Out Door (1979) | Label: Swan Song Records

A highly experimental song that’s largely keyboard-driven, thanks to Jones. Written by Jones, Page, and Plant, it’s one of Zeppelin’s longest studio recordings. Its progression, moving from synthesizer-laden landscapes to rock grooves, showcases the band’s adaptability. I adore it for the journey it takes the listener on.

“Tea for One”

Album: Presence (1976) | Label: Swan Song Records

This bluesy track penned by Page and Plant is often overshadowed by “Since I’ve Been Loving You,” but it’s a powerhouse on its own. Focusing on themes of loneliness and longing, its slow burn is intensified by Page’s expressive guitar solos. For those days when you need to feel and reflect, “Tea for One” is my go-to.

Fun Facts: Underrated Led Zeppelin Songs

“The Rover”

• Originally, “The Rover” was conceived during the sessions for “Houses of the Holy” in 1972. Even though it was recorded during that time, it didn’t make the cut for the album and was instead included in “Physical Graffiti.”
• The title doesn’t appear in the lyrics, making it a bit of a mysterious tune for fans trying to decipher its meaning.

“Down by the Seaside”

• This song’s origins can be traced back to 1970, during the sessions for “Led Zeppelin III.” It had a folkier vibe back then before its final version emerged on “Physical Graffiti.”
• Robert Plant’s inspiration for the lyrics reportedly came from Neil Young’s style of songwriting, with its laid-back, observational nature.

“In the Light”

• The song had an original working title: “In the Morning.”
• The eerie drone sound at the beginning? That’s John Paul Jones using an Arp synthesizer. The process took quite a bit of studio wizardry to perfect!

“Boogie with Stu”

• The “Stu” in the title refers to Ian Stewart of The Rolling Stones. He contributed the piano for this track.
• It was recorded at Headley Grange, a favorite recording location for the band, using the Rolling Stones Mobile Studio.

“Bron-Yr-Aur”

• The title is Welsh and refers to a cottage in Gwynedd, Wales, where Page and Plant wrote after a grueling US tour.
• Not to be confused with “Bron-Y-Aur Stomp” from “Led Zeppelin III,” this is an entirely instrumental piece showcasing Page’s acoustic prowess.

“Ten Years Gone”

• Page used 14 guitar tracks to layer and create the intricate sound of this song.
• It’s said that the song was about a love Robert Plant once had, who asked him to choose between her and his career. Guess which he chose!

“Night Flight”

• “Night Flight” was one of the tracks recorded during the “Led Zeppelin IV” sessions but didn’t see the light of day until “Physical Graffiti.”
• Though it was never performed live by the band in its entirety, Robert Plant included it in his solo tours in the 90s.

“The Battle of Evermore”

• It’s the only Led Zeppelin track to feature a guest vocalist: Sandy Denny, a British folk singer.
• The mandolin, which plays a crucial role in the song, was played by Page. The fun part? He didn’t know how to play it and learned it on the spot during the recording.

“That’s the Way”

• It was also composed during the band’s retreat to Bron-Yr-Aur in 1970.
• Originally, it had the working title “The Boy Next Door.”

“Carouselambra”

• The title “Carouselambra” is a play on words for “kaleidoscope” and the legendary city of “Valhalla.”
• At over 10 minutes long, it’s one of Zeppelin’s longest tracks but was never performed live in its entirety.

“Tea for One”

• The song is reminiscent of “Since I’ve Been Loving You,” but it’s actually about the loneliness Robert Plant felt being on tour and away from his family.
• Despite its deep emotional resonance, it wasn’t frequently included in the band’s live sets.

Diving deep into Led Zeppelin’s vast sea of music, we’ve journeyed through lesser-known masterpieces and stories. It’s these hidden gems that often hold the richest tales. Keep exploring, and remember, every song has a story waiting to be told. Rock on!

Thanks for reading.

TBone