Fifty-five years ago today, one of the most legendary bands in music history released the song that became its most iconic track ever. Decades later, a Total Guitar readers’ poll named Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” the greatest guitar solo of all time.
‘Stairway to Heaven’ by Led Zeppelin Was Released 55 Years Ago Today
As a Beats Per Minute article notes, the album popularly known as Led Zeppelin IV was released on November 8, 1971. The legendary record featured many beloved rock songs, including “Black Dog,” “Rock and Roll,” “When the Levee Breaks,” “Going to California,” and “Misty Mountain Hop.” Even though it is one of those rare records that are fantastic from start to finish, one of its tracks has always been talked about the most.
The fourth song on Led Zeppelin IV is “Stairway to Heaven,” which means it was released 55 years ago today. In the decades since the track first came out, it has been a radio staple and is easily one of the most universally recognizable songs of the era. In addition to being a truly epic track with lyrics that have always fascinated listeners, one of the main reasons “Stairway to Heaven” is so famous is Jimmy Page’s incredible guitar playing.
Total Guitar’s Readers Once Voted ‘Stairway to Heaven’ as the ‘Greatest Guitar Solo of All Time’
In 2006, Total Guitar ran a poll of its readers seeking to name the “Greatest Guitar Solo of All Time.” Given that the outlet’s followers were mostly guitarists, the vote’s results were noteworthy. That is why it is such a big deal that Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” ranked No. 1.
Unlike most guitar solos that are focused on speed, the reason Jimmy Page’s solo performance on the track is so legendary is that it fits the song to perfection. As the ultimate emotional payoff and the track’s crescendo, the legendary solo is partially why learning to perform “Stairway to Heaven” is a rite of passage for any guitarist.
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This story was originally published by Men’s Journal on Nov 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men’s Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
