Why is the Intro to “Stairway to Heaven” Called the Forbidden Riff?
Legal Controversy
The term "forbidden riff" gained prominence in the music industry after a significant legal battle. A lawsuit filed by the estate of Randy California, the guitarist from the band Spirit, brought national attention to the issue. They claimed that the intro to their 1970 hit song, ldquo;Clef of doors,rdquo; was strikingly similar to the intro of Led Zeppelin's ldquo;Stairway to Heaven.rdquo;
This legal controversy has overshadowed the iconic status of the ldquo;Stairway to Heavenrdquo; intro. To this day, many music enthusiasts with a sense of humor call it the ldquo;forbidden riffrdquo; in reference to the legal disputes and the significant cultural impact of the song.
Cultural Impact
The intro to ldquo;Stairway to Heavenrdquo; is one of the most recognizable guitar parts in rock music. Its memorable opening has left a lasting impression on the rock music scene. The riff has become a part of modern culture, often cited in discussions about rock history and iconic music moments. The term ldquo;forbidden riffrdquo; captures the idea that something as good as this intro is off-limits both in terms of originality and the potential for controversy.
Musical Influence
The riff itself has become a significant part of rock history. Many aspiring guitarists attempt to play it, often generating frustration for music store employees and other customers. The intro's fame has led to it being jokingly referred to as the ldquo;forbidden riffrdquo; in a humorous nod to the legal battles and its enduring impact on the music world.
How It Began: Wayne’s World and Beyond
The origins of the phrase ldquo;forbidden riffrdquo; can be traced back to a memorable scene in the 1992 comedy film ldquo;Wayne’s World.rdquo; In the movie, characters Wayne and Garth (played by Mike Myers and David Spade), ironically quote the intro to ldquo;Stairway to Heavenrdquo; as a source of amusement. This scene helped popularize the term and the concept of the ldquo;forbidden riff.rdquo;
Beyond the movie, the phrase continues to be used in music stores. Customers often enter stores with the sole intention of playing the intro to show off, despite their limited skills and knowledge. This behavior can be annoying for both employees and other customers, making the term ldquo;forbidden riffrdquo; a double entendre: a reference to the song's fame and its perceived inaccessibility due to the legal and skill barriers.
It's not just about showing off or annoying others; it's about the essence of music. Playing a song's intro is a simple demonstration, but it can reveal much about the individual's musical journey and dedication. For many, especially those who have been playing for a while, they understand the importance of mastering a song from beginning to end rather than just reciting a few memorable riffs.
For aspiring guitarists, the real testament to their skills lies in the ability to play a song through to its conclusion, showcasing their understanding of the rhythm and melody. This approach is the true hallmark of a skilled musician.
Lastly, it's a reminder that music should be appreciated for the entire journey, not just a few famous riffs. For serious musicians, this intro to ldquo;Stairway to Heavenrdquo; serves as a challenge to overcome, testing their dedication and commitment to mastering their craft.