There are numerous guitar riffs, but only a few have become deeply ingrained and omnipresent in pop culture. They are the ones you can’t wait to learn how to play; the ones you find yourself humming; the ones adored by all people worldwide even non-musicians. In the article, we will explore ten of the greatest guitar riffs that have had a significant impact on music history as well as inspired guitarists and music lovers around the world.
Contents
- Best iconic guitar riffs
- 1. “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple (1972)
- 2. “Back in Black” by AC/DC (1980)
- 3. “Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix (1967)
- 4. “Sunshine of Your Love” by Cream (1967)
- 5. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses (1987)
- 6. “Enter Sandman” by Metallica (1991)
- 7. “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin (1991)
- 8. “Day Tripper” by The Beatles (1965)
- 9. “Iron Man” by Black Sabbath (1970)
- 10. “Johnny B. Goode” by Chuck Berry (1958)
Best iconic guitar riffs
1. “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple (1972)
This iconic guitar riff, composed by Ritchie Blackmore, features a simple but powerful four-note sequence that has become instantly recognizable: a four-note blues scale melody in G minor, harmonized in parallel fourths. It is a cornerstone of hard rock and has influenced countless guitarists since its release in 1972.
2. “Back in Black” by AC/DC (1980)
Written by Angus Young and Malcolm Young, the opening riff of “Back in Black” is one of the most recognizable in rock music. The riff’s driving rhythm and catchy melody have made it a staple at sporting events and a beloved classic for fans of hard rock.
3. “Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix (1967)
Jimi Hendrix’s “Purple Haze” showcases his innovative and psychedelic guitar style. The opening riff, played with heavy distortion and controlled feedback, captivated listeners when it was released in 1967 and solidified Hendrix’s status as a guitar legend.
4. “Sunshine of Your Love” by Cream (1967)
Created by Eric Clapton, the main riff of “Sunshine of Your Love” is a blues-inspired masterpiece. Its catchy melody and the interplay between Clapton’s guitar and the rhythm section have made it an enduring classic since its release in 1967.
5. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses (1987)
Slash’s memorable guitar riff in “Sweet Child o’ Mine” is instantly recognizable and helped define Guns N’ Roses’ sound. Released in 1987, this melodic and emotive riff remains one of the band’s most beloved hits.
6. “Enter Sandman” by Metallica (1991)
The opening riff of “Enter Sandman” by Metallica, composed by James Hetfield, is heavy, aggressive, and instantly grabs your attention. Released in 1991, it became one of Metallica’s signature songs and a staple of their live performances.
7. “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin (1991)
The opening riff of “Enter Sandman” by Metallica, composed by James Hetfield, is heavy, aggressive, and instantly grabs your attention. Released in 1991, it became one of Metallica’s signature songs and a staple of their live performances.
8. “Day Tripper” by The Beatles (1965)
Composed by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, the main riff in “Day Tripper” is a catchy and infectious guitar hook. Released in 1965, it showcases The Beatles’ ability to create memorable melodies within a rock context.
9. “Iron Man” by Black Sabbath (1970)
Tony Iommi’s heavy and distinctive guitar riff in “Iron Man” is a defining moment in heavy metal music. Released in 1970, this iconic riff has contributed to Black Sabbath’s status as pioneers of the genre.
10. “Johnny B. Goode” by Chuck Berry (1958)
Chuck Berry’s “Johnny B. Goode” features a classic rock and roll guitar riff that has become a standard in the genre. Released in 1958, this influential riff showcases Berry’s energetic playing style and lyrical storytelling.
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