The 1970s was a defining era for classic rock, a term that embraces a vast range of sounds, from the mellow tunes of The Eagles to the hard-hitting riffs of Led Zeppelin. Despite the wide differences in their styles, these two giants of rock share more in common than one might initially think.
Led Zeppelin, led by the ambitious and perfectionist Jimmy Page, were at the cutting edge of hard rock, their complex, heavy riffs laying the groundwork for the rise of heavy metal. Their sound was bold, raw, and relentless. On the flip side, The Eagles, who formed in 1971 under the songwriting duo of Glenn Frey and Don Henley, found success with their smoother, more mainstream approach, often blending country and folk influences. While their music was less rebellious than Zeppelin’s, it was no less impactful in its own way.
At first glance, it may seem that these two bands had little in common. However, there are key overlaps between them. Both bands are renowned for their exceptional songwriting. Take “Hotel California” by The Eagles and “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin — two songs that, while stylistically different, both became anthems of their respective bands and of 1970s rock music. These epic tracks share similarities in length, complexity, and their sense of grandeur, marking a shift from the bands’ usual sounds. They became the most iconic songs for each group, resonating with fans and securing their place in classic rock history.
Don Henley himself drew this connection between the two songs, comparing “Hotel California” to “Stairway to Heaven” during an interview with Rolling Stone. Henley noted that “Hotel California” had the same kind of impact on The Eagles that “Stairway to Heaven” had on Led Zeppelin, becoming more popular on radio months after the album’s release. He understood the weight of their shared cultural influence, noting that both songs transcended their genres and became symbols of an entire musical movement.
While the Eagles and Led Zeppelin may have approached rock from different angles, both bands helped shape the sound and spirit of the 1970s. Their music, although distinct, offered fans a variety of experiences that showcased the diversity and depth of rock at the time.
And though their sounds differ, it’s clear that the connection between their fanbases and musical legacies runs deep, proving that, at its core, rock ‘n’ roll can be defined by its songwriting and ability to evoke emotion—whether through the intense power of Led Zeppelin or the thoughtful storytelling of The Eagles.
