15 Greatest Classic Rock Guitar Solos

One of the most notable classic rock songs of all time, "Stairway To Heaven" has become nothing short of legendary.

Inspired by the works of J. R. R. Tolkien, the track is essentially a fantasy epic that incorporates vague yet poetic lyrics that were written by Robert Plant and Jimmy Page during a stay at a Welsh cottage following the band's fifth tour of the USA.

Featured on Led Zeppelin's highly acclaimed fourth album, this song is renowned for Page's 12-string acoustic guitar opening riff that has not only become a rite of passage to learn for many aspiring guitar players, but is guaranteed to have you thrown out of any guitar store if you decide to play it in front of any of the employees (trust me, been there, done that).

On top of the famous opening passage, Page's solos are also worthy of note, as they sound divine when combined with John Bonham's and John Paul Jones' respective drum and bass playing.

The main solo, which starts roughly at the six minute mark, perfectly captures the emotion of Plant's lyrics, leading to a loud and climatic ending that finishes the song on the highest possible note. Led Zeppelin have recorded countless classic songs, but this stands as the most iconic entry into their prolific discography.