Are you a fan of rock music and want to learn some classic guitar riffs? Look no further! In this article, we’ll take a look at ten must-know guitar riffs for rock fans. From AC/DC to Led Zeppelin, these riffs have stood the test of time and are essential for any aspiring rock guitarist to know.
1. “Back in Black” by AC/DC
One of the most iconic guitar riffs of all time, “Back in Black” by AC/DC is a must-know for any rock guitarist. The riff is based on a simple five-note pattern and is played using palm muting to give it a percussive sound.
2. “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple
Another classic rock riff, “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple is instantly recognizable thanks to its memorable opening notes. The riff is based on a simple four-note pattern and is played using power chords.
3. “Enter Sandman” by Metallica
“Enter Sandman” by Metallica is a classic heavy metal riff that is essential for any rock guitarist to know. The riff is based on a repeating pattern of power chords and is played using palm muting to give it a tight, percussive sound.
4. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses
“Sweet Child o’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses is a classic rock ballad with a memorable guitar riff. The riff is based on a combination of open chords and arpeggios and is played using fingerpicking to give it a flowing, melodic sound.
5. “Sunshine of Your Love” by Cream
“Sunshine of Your Love” by Cream is a classic rock riff that features a combination of power chords and bluesy licks. The riff is played using a combination of palm muting and bending to give it a distinctive sound.
6. “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin
“Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin is a classic rock riff that features a combination of power chords and a memorable slide riff. The riff is played using a combination of palm muting and sliding to give it a distinctive sound.
7. “Iron Man” by Black Sabbath
“Iron Man” by Black Sabbath is a classic heavy metal riff that is instantly recognizable thanks to its opening notes. The riff is based on a simple four-note pattern and is played using power chords.
8. “Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne
“Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne is a classic heavy metal riff that features a combination of power chords and a memorable arpeggio riff. The riff is played using a combination of palm muting and fingerpicking to give it a flowing, melodic sound.
9. “Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix
“Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix is a classic rock riff that features a combination of power chords and a memorable sliding riff. The riff is played using a combination of palm muting and sliding to give it a distinctive sound.
10. “Layla” by Derek and the Dominos
“Layla” by Derek and the Dominos is a classic rock ballad with a memorable guitar riff. The riff is based on a combination of power chords and arpeggios and is played using fingerpicking to give it a flowing, melodic sound.
Conclusion
These ten guitar riffs are essential for any aspiring rock guitarist to know. By learning these riffs, you’ll be able to play some of the most iconic songs in rock history and develop your guitar playing skills in the process. Remember to practice regularly and have fun!
- Back in Black by AC/DC
- Smoke on the Water by Deep Purple
- Enter Sandman by Metallica
- Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses
- Sunshine of Your Love by Cream
- Whole Lotta Love by Led Zeppelin
- Iron Man by Black Sabbath
- Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne
- Purple Haze by Jimi Hendrix
- Layla by Derek and the Dominos
For more information on guitar riffs and rock music, check out Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 Greatest Guitar Songs of All Time.