The Bass Riff From “The Lemon Song” That John Paul Jones Called His “Filthiest Ever”

April 1, 2025

In the dim light of a cramped studio in 1969, the air was thick with anticipation as the legendary rock band Led Zeppelin prepared to record what would become an iconic track: “The Lemon Song.” At the heart of it all was bassist John Paul Jones, his fingers poised above the frets of his instrument. Unknown to the world at that moment, he was about to unleash what he later described as his “filthiest ever” bass riff, a groovy yet gritty line that would reverberate through the ages.

As the session began, an electric energy filled the room. The familiar sounds of the instruments mixed with the scent of cigarette smoke and coffee. Robert Plant’s voice soared, and Jimmy Page’s guitar hummed like a bee buzzing in the summer sun. But it was Jones’s bass riff that caught everyone’s attention. It was bold and rebellious, with a rawness that seemed to ooze with passion. As he played, he felt a surge of inspiration. Each note was a step towards freedom, a release from the mundane.

Yet, it wasn’t just the sound that mattered; it was the emotion behind it. Jones knew that music was more than just notes and beats; it was a way to tell stories and connect with people. “The Lemon Song” was infused with a sense of longing and desire, capturing the struggles and triumphs of life. For Jones, the bass line was a personal expression—a reflection of his own journey as an artist. He had faced doubts and challenges, but in that moment, he was reminded why he loved music: it was his escape, his passion, and his voice.

When the album was finally released, the world was introduced to the infectious groove of “The Lemon Song.” Fans erupted with enthusiasm, drawn to its captivating rhythm and soulful lyrics. The song helped cement Led Zeppelin’s place in rock history, yet it also marked a moment of transformation for John Paul Jones. Suddenly, he was no longer just the quiet, behind-the-scenes musician; he was a key player in a band that was changing the face of music. The success of the song boosted his confidence and fueled his desire to explore new musical ideas.

As Led Zeppelin continued to rise to fame, John Paul Jones carried that memorable riff with him. It became a reminder of what passion could achieve, a testament to the power of music to inspire and uplift. He faced the pressures of stardom with resilience, often reflecting on that day in the studio when he put his heart into every note. His journey taught him that it was okay to embrace the messy, the raw, and the emotional. Music was not just a career; it was a lifeline.

In the years that followed, Jones would continue to create and collaborate, always cherishing the lessons learned from that filthy bass riff. He knew that music had the power to resonate deeply with people, to tell stories that would linger long after the final note. And as he moved forward, he carried the spirit of “The Lemon Song” with him, a reminder that true artistry comes from being genuine, passionate, and unafraid to show the world your heart.