What Makes a Song Perfect? Here’s Why “Stairway to Heaven” Gets It Right

by Jason Misrahi May 7, 2025

Now that’s a personal question—everyone’s got their own opinion. But in this blog, I want to share what I think makes a song perfect. I’m starting a series where I highlight ten songs I believe check every box, even if they’re not my personal favorites.

Let me say this up front:

This list isn’t about what I like the most. It’s about songs that are so well crafted, so emotionally powerful, that they feel untouchable. Whether you love the artist or not, these are songs that stand the test of time.

And the first one I have to talk about—the one that came to mind instantly—is:

“Stairway to Heaven” – Led Zeppelin

Maybe it’s been overplayed. Maybe you think it’s cliché.

But there’s a reason everyone knows this song—even people who don’t know the name or the band. That’s not an accident.

Do you remember the first time you heard it?

I do. I was in the trunk of my brother’s car—don’t ask—and a little intoxicated. But I’ll never forget that moment. It felt like the sky opened up.

Let’s break it down.

🌀 The Journey

It starts soft: a haunting guitar, then comes the flute-like keyboard. No drums yet. Just atmosphere. It sets the scene like a medieval fairytale.

Then we hear it:

“There’s a lady who’s sure all that glitters is gold…”

That line starts a slow build that carries through eight minutes. But it never drags. Every section adds something new—each part more powerful than the last.

🔥 The Build-Up

By the time the drums finally kick in around the four-minute mark, you’re locked in. Most songs would have ended by now, but “Stairway” is just getting started.

It shifts. It changes chords. It adds tension. Then—boom—Jimmy Page lets loose on a soaring guitar solo that takes the song to another level.

⚡ The Climax

Robert Plant’s voice explodes. John Bonham’s drumming ties everything together like a heartbeat. And the whole band becomes one massive wave of sound and emotion.

That final line:

“And she’s buying a stairway to heaven…”

It hits like a resolution. Like the end of a journey.

💬 So Why Is It Perfect?

It’s not my favorite song of all time. But in my opinion, it is a perfect one. Here’s why:

It tells a story—from soft ballad to rock anthem.
Every part flows into the next with purpose.
It stands the test of time.
Even people who don’t know classic rock know this song.

It’s emotional, dynamic, unforgettable. It’s a song, a story, a feeling—all in one.

That’s what makes it perfect.

🎧 More Perfect Songs Coming Soon

This is just the beginning. I’ve got more “perfect songs” to share with you—some you may agree with, some you might not. But either way, they’ve earned a place on the list.

What songs do you consider perfect? Hit me up—I want to hear your picks.