Led Zeppelin’s Stairway to Heaven is one of the most famous songs from the British rock band. But, despite its worldwide success, some music stores have signs that say “No Stairway to Heaven.” But, why? Should you also avoid playing this “forbidden riff”?
History of the “Forbidden Riff”
Led Zeppelin’s Stairway to Heaven was released in 1971 and quickly became one of the most iconic rock songs. It’s so popular that it is the biggest-selling single in rock history, with about 15,000 copies sold every year. In 2004, the song appeared on Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time at the 31st spot.
But beyond the song’s success, it is marred with allegations of copyright infringement. In 2014, Spirit accused Led Zepellin of ripping the opening guitar intro – yes, the 50-seconds of the song. The long legal battle finally favored Led Zepellin in 2020.
Pop Culture: “No Stairway, Denied!”
So, you might think, “If Stairway to Heaven is so popular and successful, why can’t I play it in guitar stores?” Well, you can blame pop culture for it.
In the movie Wayne’s World, the lead character, Wayne, played by Mike Myers, grabbed a guitar and was about to play the opening riff to “Stairway to Heaven.” However, the shop attendant stopped him and pointed to a sign that said “NO STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN.”
Stairway to Heaven is technically not banned in guitar stores, but Wayne’s catchy “No Stairway, Denied” statement stuck with many people, including guitar shops. You might even see “No Stairway to Heaven” signs, but it’s more of an ode to the movie. And, no, playing the song in guitar stores is not illegal. People just choose not to play Stairway to Heaven because, well, it’s overplayed and out of courtesy.
Other Overplayed Song Riffs in Guitar Stores
In addition to Stairway to Heaven, you should also avoid the following songs when trying a new guitar in the shop.
1. Wonderwall by Oasis
Oasis released “Wonderwall” in 1995. After its release, the song topped the charts in New Zealand and Australia and was top 10 in 13 countries, including the U.S. and Canada.
2. Sweet Child ‘O Mine by Guns N’ Roses
Guns N’ Roses released “Sweet Child ‘O Mine” in 1988 and quickly topped the Billboard Top 100 in the U.S. Surprisingly, it was the only Guns N’ Roses song to land the top spot on the Billboard charts.
3. Smells Like Teen Spirit by Nirvana
The success of “Smells like Teen Spirit” came in 1991 and 1992 when the song topped the music charts in several countries. Listeners gave it the name “anthem for apathetic kids.”
4. Enter Sandman by Metallica
Enter Sandman reached number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. With more than 1 million copies sold in the U.S..The song achieved platinum certification.
5. Seven Nation Army by White Stripes
Seven Nation Army is popular with guitar aficionados. The song won the title “Best Rock Song” in the 46th Grammy Awards.
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