The One Led Zeppelin Song John Paul Jones Struggled to Play: A Complex Riff and Its Impact on the Band's Legacy
Every member of Led Zeppelin was a virtuoso, but John Paul Jones, the band's bassist, had a particular challenge with one of their iconic songs. In an interview, Jones revealed that 'Good Times Bad Times' was the hardest riff he ever wrote, a statement that sparked curiosity among fans and fellow musicians alike.
This song, a blues standard with a hard rock edge, showcased the band's evolution from their early days in London clubs. The track's complexity lay in its central riff, which required a unique string-skipping technique, seamlessly transitioning from straight arpeggios to open power chords. This intricate bassline was a significant departure from the straightforward blues structure, and it posed a challenge for even the most seasoned musicians.
Jones' struggle with the riff was not unique. The entire band was initially taken aback by the bass drum pattern, with Page recalling that everyone thought Bonham was using two bass drums when he only had one. This added to the song's intrigue, as the band members themselves were surprised by the complexity they had inadvertently created.
Despite the initial challenges, Jones' mastery of the riff in the studio version is remarkable. His ability to hold down the groove and lay down tasty lead licks showcases his skill and adaptability. However, this wasn't the only time Jones faced musical complexity within the band. On their fourth album, he contributed the central riff for 'Black Dog,' which was played in a complex time signature, almost making the band sound out of sync before they roared back in unison.
Interestingly, 'Good Times Bad Times' isn't among Jones' favorite Led Zeppelin songs. He prefers tracks like 'When The Levee Breaks' and 'Kashmir,' with the latter being a favorite among the band members. Jones also praises 'What Is and What Should Never Be' for its magical rhythm section. This preference highlights the diverse tastes within the band, even as they united to create iconic music.
The song's impact on the band's legacy is undeniable, even if it wasn't Jones' favorite. Its complex riff and unexpected bass drum pattern contributed to Led Zeppelin's reputation for pushing musical boundaries, ensuring their place in rock history.
