Led Zeppelin - Four Sticks Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is the song called 'Four Sticks'?

   The song is titled 'Four Sticks' because drummer John Bonham played it using four drumsticks—two in each hand. This unique drumming technique was a significant aspect of the song's challenging recording process.

2. What time signatures are used in 'Four Sticks'?

   'Four Sticks' features unusual time signatures, incorporating a mixture of 5/8 and 6/8. This complexity added to the challenge of recording the song and contributed to its unique rhythmic feel.

3. How many takes were needed to record 'Four Sticks'?

   'Four Sticks' was difficult to record and required more takes than usual for a Led Zeppelin track. The exact number of takes isn't specified, but the process was notably strenuous for the band, particularly for drummer John Bonham.

4. Did Led Zeppelin perform 'Four Sticks' live often?

   No, Led Zeppelin played 'Four Sticks' live only a few times. One notable performance occurred during their 1971 European tour in Denmark. The song's complex time signatures made it a challenging piece to perform live.

5. Was 'Four Sticks' ever re-recorded?

   Yes, Jimmy Page and Robert Plant re-recorded 'Four Sticks' with the Bombay Symphony Orchestra in 1972 during their trip to India. This version, featuring tabla drums and sitars, was titled 'Four Hands' and was released in the 2015 remastering of the 'Coda' album.

6. What instruments are prominently featured in 'Four Sticks'?

   In addition to John Bonham's drums played with four sticks, the song features a VCS3 synthesizer played by John Paul Jones. The complex instrumental layers contribute to the song's distinctive sound.