20 Songs Like Stairway to Heaven

When it comes to classic rock anthems, few songs are as iconic as “Stairway to Heaven.” The song is instantly recognizable, with its distinctive opening guitar riff and Robert Plant’s soaring vocals. But what if you’re looking for something similar? Here are a few songs that might fit the bill.

1. “Taurus” by Spirit

Starting off this list is a song that is considered to have the closest similarities with “Stairway to Heaven.” “Taurus” was released on the band’s self-titled debut album in 1968.

The opening guitar riff bears a striking resemblance to the one in Stairway, and it’s not hard to see why Led Zeppelin has been accused of copying.

2. “Down in a Hole” by Alice in Chains

Next on the list of songs like “Stairway to Heaven” is one from Alice in Chains.  This song is actually the fourth track off of their “Dirt” album, which was released in 1993.

This is one of their biggest hits and it now has over 39 million views on Youtube. It can also be streamed on all music platforms out there.

3. “Little Black Submarines” by The Black Keys

The Black Keys are an American rock band that was formed in 2001. This song comes off of their 2012 album “El Camino” and has been a fan favorite ever since. Its resemblance to “Stairway to Heaven” is undeniable, from the opening riff to the overall feel of the song.

4. “Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

Another track that closely resembles “Stairway To Heaven” is by Lynyrd Skynyrd. “Free Bird” was released in 1974 on the album “ (Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd)”. The obvious correlation between the two songs is evident just by hearing the starting melody.

5. “Hey You” by Pink Floyd

The next song is “Hey You” by Pink Floyd. This song is also about a journey, but it’s more of an internal one. The lyrics follow a person who is struggling and feels lost.

They reach out for help, but no one seems to hear them. In the end, they find their way back to themselves. It was released in 1979 for their “The Wall” album.

6. “Hotel California” by Eagles

Another apparently similar track is “Hotel California” by Eagles. This is a truly iconic song that sure gives off “Stairway To Heaven” vibes by the opening guitar melody.

The song was released in 1977 as part of the album “Hotel California”. The song is hands-down Eagles’ most famous tune.

7. “Wind Of Change” by Scorpions

The next song that captures similar vibes is “Wind Of Change” by Scorpions. It is easy to see why this song is so familiar with the iconic Led Zeppelin track.

The mellow guitar melody and overall feel closely resemble the track. The song was released in 1991 as part of the album “Crazy World”.

8. “Still Loving You” by Scorpions

While on the subject of Scorpions, another track of theirs that resembles “Stairway To Heaven” is their iconic hit “Still Loving You”.

The opening guitar melody is what makes these two tracks so similar to one another. The tune was released in 1984 on the album “Love at First Sting”. 

9. “Paint It Black” by The Rolling Stones

Next on the list is “Paint It Black” by The Rolling Stones. This song is about grief and loss, and how those things can consume you.

It was released in 1966 and is one of the band’s most well-known tracks. You can find it on the album “Aftermath”.

10. “Dust In The Wind” by Kansas

The next track on the list is “Dust In The Wind” by Kansas. The opening guitar melody is a legendary one that truly resembles a track we all know and love. The song was released in 1978 as part of their amazing album “Point of Know Return”.

11. “Imagine” by John Lennon

This next song is much more gentle and mellow than the previous two. John Lennon’s “Imagine” is a classic that has been covered by many artists over the years. It was released in 1971 on his album “Imagine”. You can listen to it on all music platforms.

12. “Last Chance” by Shooting Star

“Last Chance” is a song by the American rock band Shooting Star. It was released in 1980 as the lead single from their self-titled album.

It now has over 250k views on Youtube so be sure to check it out. It can also be streamed on all music platforms out there.

13. “Roundabout” by Yes

Incredibly popular for its flying bassline, “Roundabout” by Yes, at the intro, very much resembles “Stairway To Heaven”. The song was released in 1972 on the album “Fragile” and serves as one of the band’s most famous tunes.

14. “Zombie Eaters” by Faith No More

This next song has a lot in common with “Stairway to Heaven”. “Zombie Eaters” also features some subtle acoustic guitar work and ethereal vocal harmonies, which add to the song’s mystical feeling. It was released in 1989 as part of the album “The Real Thing”.

15. “Let It Grow” by Eric Clapton

Eric Clapton is known for his bluesy guitar work, but he also knows how to write a great slow-building rock song. “Let It Grow” is a perfect example of this.

The track features some beautiful slide guitar playing and Clapton’s trademark growling vocals. It was released in 1974 as part of the album “461 Ocean Boulevard”.

16. “Soma” by The Smashing Pumpkins

“Soma” is a perfect example of The Smashing Pumpkins’ signature sound. It features Billy Corgan’s ethereal vocals, thick guitar textures, and a driving rhythm section.

The track builds in intensity until it reaches a huge climax complete with distorted guitars and crashing cymbals. It was released in 1993 as part of the album “Siamese Dream”.

17. “Comfortably Numb” by Pink Floyd

The next song on this list is another classic rock track. “Comfortably Numb” is a beautifully written song with some of the best guitar work you’ll ever hear.

The track features two solos from Pink Floyd guitarist David Gilmour, which are both absolutely stunning. The song was released in 1980 as part of the album “The Wall”.

18. “My God” by Jethro Tull

“My God” is a great example of prog rock at its finest. The track features some amazing flute work from Jethro Tull frontman Ian Anderson, as well as some great guitar and bass playing which is comparable to that of “Stairway to Heaven”. The song was released in 1971 as part of the album “Aqualung”.

19. “The Chain” by Fleetwood Mac

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDG2m5hN1vo

“The Chain” is a classic rock track that features some classic guitar work. The track is driven by a catchy guitar riff and features some great solo work from Lindsey Buckingham.

The song was released in 1977 as part of the album “Rumours”. You can stream it on all music platforms out there.

20. “One” by Metallica

Finishing off the list is “One” by Metallica. This track is a perfect example of the band’s signature sound. It features a heavy guitar riff and pounding drums.

The song was released in 1989. This is one of Metallica’s most popular songs, and it’s easy to see why.

Final Thoughts

There are many songs like “Stairway to Heaven.” These tracks are all great examples of classic rock at its best. They may be compared to Led Zeppelin’s famous track, but they all stand on their own.