James Hetfield — the vocalist, rhythm guitarist and principal songwriter of Metallica — has spent four decades shaping heavy metal’s sound and leaving an indelible mark on rock music. Even so, when asked to pinpoint what he considers the greatest song ever written, Hetfield didn’t choose one of his own or a fellow metal anthem — he pointed to Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven.”
Hetfield shared his thoughts during a 2025 appearance on The Metallica Report Podcast, where he was asked to reflect on the songs that influenced him and stood out across music history. He acknowledged that what may be “the best song” can depend on mood and moment, noting that when he’s driving, classics like Motörhead’s “Ace of Spades” feel unbeatable. But when considering songwriting on a broader artistic level, he singled out “Stairway to Heaven.”
“As stupid and simple as it sounds, I think ‘Stairway to Heaven’ is just one of those songs that so many bands have tried to emulate,” Hetfield said, highlighting how the track’s light-to-heavy structure — moving from gentle acoustic beginnings to powerful electric climax — has become a template for rock composition.
Hetfield also referenced other epic tracks with similar dynamic arcs, like Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird” and Metallica’s own “One,” as examples of songwriting approaches the Zeppelin classic helped inspire.
A Longstanding Admiration
This wasn’t the first time Hetfield publicly praised “Stairway to Heaven.” In a 2004 Rolling Stone interview, he listed it among his favourite songs, recalling how he learned its first guitar fingerings when he was starting out. He described running around the house excitedly after mastering that opening section — a moment many aspiring guitarists can relate to.
Growing up, Hetfield and his school band often covered Led Zeppelin songs, cementing his admiration not just for the band’s music but for the craftsmanship behind it. His respect extended to Robert Plant, whom he has ranked among the greatest singers of all time — even placing Plant above icons like Johnny Cash, Freddie Mercury, and Steven Tyler in a 2008 Rolling Stone ranking.
Interestingly, Hetfield included “Meeting Robert Plant” as a highlight in a 2015 list he shared with Metallica’s fan club, reflecting the personal importance of connecting with the artist behind one of his musical heroes. He also shared a stage with Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2009, playing Train Kept A-Rollin’ alongside Page and Jeff Beck — a full circle moment that tied Hetfield’s early influences to his later success.
Led Zeppelin’s Legacy in Hetfield’s Music
Led Zeppelin’s music — especially the acoustic and dynamic compositions found on albums like Led Zeppelin IV — helped shape Hetfield’s understanding of song structure and emotional range. Tracks like “Stairway to Heaven” exemplify how a song can evolve over its runtime, maintaining narrative and musical tension in a way few songs manage.
Hetfield has also expressed fondness for other Zeppelin works, including Led Zeppelin III, an album known for its blend of folk, acoustic textures and rock energy. At times, he has pointed to Led Zeppelin III when defending Metallica’s own experimental moments, reminding fans that even legendary bands faced early criticism that didn’t stand the test of time.
Led Zeppelin — formed by Jimmy Page, Robert Plant, John Paul Jones, and John Bonham — remains one of rock’s most influential bands. Active from 1968 to 1980, they released eight acclaimed studio albums and have sold more than 200 million records worldwide, securing a legacy that continues to inspire musicians across genres.
