The opening notes of a song can set the tone for the entire piece, creating an atmosphere and providing a glimpse into the artist’s intention. When it comes to guitar intros, there are few more powerful than those that start with a captivating riff or striking chord progression. These iconic intros instantly grab the listener’s attention and create a sense of anticipation for what is to come.
From the energetic strumming of The Beatles’ “A Hard Day’s Night” to the haunting arpeggios of Radiohead’s “Creep,” there are countless guitar intros that have become embedded in our musical consciousness. These intros are not just technical displays but also works of art that showcase the creativity and skill of the musicians who crafted them. They have defined genres, inspired generations of guitarists, and left an unforgettable mark on the history of music.
In the realm of rock and roll, the guitar intro has become synonymous with the genre’s raw power and energy. The opening riff of AC/DC’s “Back in Black” is an instant adrenaline rush, while the iconic chords of The Rolling Stones’ “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” have become synonymous with the band’s signature sound. In the world of blues, the guitar intro often sets the mood for a slow, soulful ballad or a foot-stomping dance number. From the smoky slide guitar of B.B. King to the virtuosic fretwork of Stevie Ray Vaughan, the blues guitar intro is a testament to the genre’s rich history and emotional depth.
The Classic Rock Anthem: “Stairway to Heaven”
The iconic intro to Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” is a masterpiece of acoustic guitar playing and one of the most recognizable openings in rock history. Jimmy Page’s fingerpicking technique weaves a tapestry of delicate arpeggios and melodic lines, creating a sense of ethereal beauty and wonder. The intro gradually builds in intensity, adding layers of electric guitars and drums to create a powerful and unforgettable soundscape.
The intro consists of three distinct sections:
| Section | Description |
|---|---|
| Acoustic Arpeggios | Delicate fingerpicking pattern with intricate melodic lines. |
| Electric Guitar Melody | Solo guitar line that echoes and intertwines with the acoustic arpeggios. |
| Power Chords and Drums | Introduces a driving rhythm and heavy guitars that escalate the intensity. |
Page’s acoustic guitar playing is the centerpiece of the intro, showcasing his exceptional technical skill and melodicセンス. He uses a variety of fingerpicking techniques, including hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides, to create a unique and unforgettable sound. The electric guitar melody that emerges adds an ethereal and mystical element, while the power chords and drums provide a solid foundation and build anticipation for the soaring vocals and epic musical journey to come.
The Soulful Ballad: “Layla”
Eric Clapton’s “Layla” is a timeless classic that opens with one of the most iconic guitar intros in rock history. Composed in two distinct parts, the intro perfectly captures the song’s emotional depth and complexity.
The first part of the intro features a haunting, arpeggiated figure played on a nylon-string acoustic guitar. The delicate melody is underpinned by a sparse, syncopated rhythm, creating a sense of longing and anticipation. The arpeggiated figure gradually gains momentum, building towards the second part of the intro.
The second part of the intro explodes with a powerful electric guitar riff. The riff is based on a descending chromatic scale, and its high-energy delivery contrasts sharply with the gentle acoustic intro. The riff builds to a crescendo, culminating in a soaring, sustained note that sets the stage for the rest of the song.
Technical Details:
| Part | Guitar Type | Playing Technique |
|---|---|---|
| Part 1 | Nylon-string acoustic guitar | Arpeggio |
| Part 2 | Electric guitar | Riffing |
The Heavy Metal Masterpiece: “Eruption”
“Eruption” by Eddie Van Halen is not only one of the most iconic guitar intros but also a pivotal moment in rock and roll history. Released in 1978 as part of Van Halen’s debut album, “Eruption” showcased Van Halen’s groundbreaking guitar technique and left an indelible mark on the heavy metal genre.
The Anatomy of a Masterpiece
The intro to “Eruption” consists of three distinct sections:
| Section | Description |
|---|---|
| A | A rapid-fire barrage of legato and tapping notes |
| B | A high-pitched and soaring melody played on the top three strings |
| C | A cascading waterfall of notes that build to a climax |
Section A opens with an explosive burst of notes, played at lightning speed using the tapping technique. Van Halen’s fingers dance across the fretboard, creating a flurry of notes that evoke the sound of a volcanic eruption. Section B provides a brief respite, with a soaring melody that contrasts with the frenzy of Section A. The final section, Section C, showcases Van Halen’s mastery of the tremolo arm. He dives and swoops between notes, creating a cascading effect that builds to a thunderous climax.
Van Halen’s innovative use of techniques such as tapping and tremolo picking revolutionized the way guitar was played in heavy metal. “Eruption” became a standard for aspiring guitarists and helped to establish Van Halen as one of the most influential guitarists of all time.
The Iconic Western Tune: “Rawhide”
The legendary Western television series “Rawhide” premiered in 1959, capturing the hearts of viewers and inspiring a catchy and enduring theme song that remains a classic to this day.
4. The Unforgettable Guitar Intro
The unforgettable guitar intro to “Rawhide” is a testament to the power of simplicity and repetition. The iconic riff, played on an acoustic guitar, consists of a syncopated chord progression of G, Em, C, and D. The riff is repeated throughout the nearly two-minute-long instrumental, creating a hypnotic and unforgettable melody.
The guitar’s tone is warm and resonant, with just the right amount of reverb to fill out the sound. The player’s touch is confident and precise, giving the riff a strong rhythmic foundation. The combination of the simple progression and the skilled execution creates an intro that is both memorable and timeless.
The following table lists the guitar chords used in the intro to “Rawhide”:
| Chord | Fingering |
|---|---|
| G | 320003 |
| Em | 022000 |
| C | 032010 |
| D | xx0232 |
The Fingerstyle Delight: “Blackbird”
Paul McCartney’s “Blackbird” captivates with its enchanting fingerstyle guitar intro. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its breathtaking simplicity:
1. Open D Tuning
The intro is played in open D tuning (DADF#AD), which creates a resonant and ethereal sound.
2. Arpeggiated Chords
The intro consists of arpeggiated D and G chords, where the notes of each chord are played in a rolling pattern.
3. Sliding Harmonics
McCartney incorporates subtle sliding harmonics, adding a haunting and otherworldly touch to the intro.
4. Fingerpicking Embellishments
The intro is adorned with intricate fingerpicking embellishments, such as hammer-ons, pull-offs, and grace notes, adding depth and texture.
5. Harmonic Sequence
The intro’s most striking feature is its harmonic sequence, where the arpeggiated chords progress through a sequence of descending fourths:
| Chord | Root Note | Degree of Scale |
|---|---|---|
| D | D | I |
| G | G | IV |
| C | C | VII |
| F | F | IV |
| Bb | Bb | VII |
| Eb | Eb | IV |
| Ab | Ab | VII |
This descending harmonic sequence creates a sense of longing and anticipation, setting the stage for the song’s poignant lyrics.
The Progressive Rock Epic: “21st Century Schizoid Man”
The epic opening track of King Crimson’s debut album, “21st Century Schizoid Man,” stands as a towering achievement in progressive rock. Its complex structure and searing guitar work have cemented its status as one of the most iconic rock instrumentals of all time.
The Saxophone’s Cry
The track opens with a dissonant sax solo by Ian McDonald, swirling like a banshee’s wail over a hypnotic bassline. This jarring introduction sets the stage for the chaos that’s to come.
The Guitar’s Onslaught
As the sax retreats, Robert Fripp’s guitar erupts, launching into a blistering solo that careens and weaves through the dense sonic tapestry. His aggressive, angular playing provides a visceral counterpoint to the ethereal soundscape created by the Mellotron and Mellotron.
The Melodic Tapestry
Fripp’s solo is not merely a display of technical brilliance; it’s a carefully crafted narrative, alternating between harsh dissonances and haunting melodies. His use of harmonics and feedback creates a kaleidoscope of sounds, both beautiful and unsettling.
The Bass and Drums
Michael Giles’ drums and Greg Lake’s bass provide a solid foundation for the musical maelstrom. Giles’ thunderous beats and Lake’s melodic basslines anchor the track, creating a sense of urgency and propulsion.
The Mellotron’s Atmosphere
Beneath the guitar and sax, the Mellotron’s ethereal soundscapes provide an eerie backdrop. Its haunting strings and flute-like tones evoke a sense of alienation and unease, perfectly complementing the track’s lyrical themes of isolation and mental anguish.
Robert Fripp’s Solo Analysis
| Section | Description |
|---|---|
| Verse 1 | Angular and aggressive playing, characterized by swooping bends and dissonant intervals. |
| Bridge | Melodic interlude with haunting harmonics and ambient textures. |
| Verse 2 | Return to the angular style of the first verse, but with increased intensity. |
| Outro | Culminates in a frenzied cacophony of feedback and distortion. |
The Bluesy Boogie: “Johnny B. Goode”
Rolling Stone magazine ranked “Johnny B. Goode” as the seventh-greatest guitar intro of all time. It’s a classic boogie-woogie riff that’s simple yet instantly recognizable. The intro is only eight bars long, but it sets the stage for the rest of the song, which is a celebration of the titular character’s love of music.
The Riff
The riff is based on a standard twelve-bar blues progression. However, Berry’s use of syncopation and double-stops gives it a unique and infectious quality. The riff is played on the guitar’s low E string and uses a combination of hammer-ons, pull-offs, and slides.
The Technique
Berry’s guitar playing on “Johnny B. Goode” is technically proficient and effortless. He uses a light touch and a relaxed picking style to create a smooth and fluid sound. His right-hand technique is particularly impressive, as he is able to play the riff at a very fast tempo without losing any clarity or precision.
The Impact
The intro to “Johnny B. Goode” has had a profound impact on popular music. It has been covered by countless artists and has inspired generations of guitarists. The riff is also one of the most recognizable in all of rock and roll and has become synonymous with the genre.
The 12-Bar Blues Progression
The twelve-bar blues progression is a common chord progression used in blues music. It consists of twelve bars, each of which is four beats long. The progression is typically played in the key of E major or A major. The following table shows the chord progression for the key of E major:
| Bar | Chord |
|---|---|
| 1-4 | E |
| 5-6 | A |
| 7-8 | E |
| 9-10 | B7 |
| 11-12 | E |
The Funk Masterclass: “Superstition”
1. The Unmistakable Groove
Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” opens with an iconic bassline and drumbeat that instantly establish the song’s funky groove.
2. The Twangy Guitar
The guitar enters with a twangy, percussive rhythm that complements the bass and drums, adding a playful and infectious energy.
3. The Rhythmic Interplay
The guitar and basslines interlock perfectly, creating a rhythmic interplay that drives the song forward with unstoppable momentum.
4. The Harmonic Complexity
The guitar’s chords feature unusual and extended voicings, adding a harmonic richness and depth to the otherwise simple arrangement.
5. The Call-and-Response Pattern
Stevie Wonder’s vocals feature a call-and-response pattern with the guitar, further emphasizing the song’s infectious groove.
6. The Solo Surprise
Halfway through the song, the guitar takes center stage with a blistering solo that showcases Stevie Wonder’s virtuosity and improvisational skills.
7. The Repetitive Power
The intro’s basic elements repeat throughout the song, creating a hypnotic and trance-inducing effect that keeps the listener fully engaged.
8. The Iconic Riff Breakdown
At the climax of the song, the guitar breaks away from the main riff to play a series of sharp, percussive notes that produce a thrilling and electrifying moment.
| Progression |
|---|
| Cm7 – Fm7 – Bb – Eb – Ab |
The Hypnotic Stoner Rock: “Planet Caravan”
Released in 1970, “Planet Caravan” by Black Sabbath is a masterpiece of stoner rock, renowned for its mesmerizing and haunting guitar intro. The intro’s slow, meandering pace and heavy distortion create an otherworldly atmosphere that sets the tone for the rest of the song.
The intro is dominated by a simple yet effective riff that loops throughout the song. The guitar plays a series of sustained power chords, with a slight delay and reverb added to create a sense of space and depth. The guitar also occasionally employs subtle bends and vibrato, adding to the hypnotic effect.
The intro is complemented by Tony Iommi’s signature heavy and distorted guitar sound. Iommi uses a Gibson SG and a Laney Supergroup amplifier to achieve his signature tone, which is characterized by its thick, crunchy distortion and powerful low end.
Structure of the Intro
The intro of “Planet Caravan” can be divided into three distinct sections:
| Section | Description |
|---|---|
| Section 1 | Sustained power chords played slowly and repetitively. |
| Section 2 | Chords played slightly faster, with added bends and vibrato. |
| Section 3 | Return to the sustained power chords, with a slight increase in tempo and intensity. |
These three sections are interwoven throughout the intro, creating a sense of movement and progression while maintaining the hypnotic and ethereal atmosphere.
The Experimental Soundscape: “Threshold”
The album “Threshold” by prog-rock giants Transatlantic is a concept album that tells the story of a journey through the mind and the subconscious. The album’s opening track, also titled “Threshold,” is an instrumental piece that sets the stage for the rest of the album.
The track begins with a slow, ambient intro that builds gradually in intensity. A hypnotic guitar riff soon emerges, played over a bed of spacey synthesizers and gentle drums. The riff is simple but effective, and it creates a sense of tension and anticipation that perfectly captures the album’s theme of inner exploration.
The 10 Best Guitar Intros in English Language
10. “Threshold” by Transatlantic
The guitar intro to “Threshold” is a masterclass in building tension and atmosphere. The simple but effective riff, the spacey synths, and the gentle drums create a sense of anticipation that perfectly captures the album’s theme of inner exploration.
| Title: Threshold |
| Artist: Transatlantic |
| Album: Threshold |
| Genre: Progressive Rock |
The Best Guitar Intros
The guitar intro is arguably the most important part of any song. It sets the tone for the rest of the track and can often make or break a song’s success. There are countless great guitar intros out there, but here are a few of the most iconic:
“Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple: This is one of the most famous guitar intros of all time, and for good reason. The simple yet effective riff is instantly recognizable and sets the stage for the rest of the song’s heavy blues sound.
“Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses: This is another classic guitar intro that is instantly recognizable. The soaring, melodic riff is a perfect example of Slash’s unmistakable style.
“Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin: This is one of the most epic guitar intros of all time. The acoustic guitar intro builds slowly, creating a sense of anticipation before the song’s full power is unleashed.
People Also Ask
What are some other great guitar intros?
There are many other great guitar intros out there, but here are a few more of our favorites:
•”Eruption” by Van Halen
“Child in Time” by Deep Purple
“The Star-Spangled Banner” by Jimi Hendrix
What makes a great guitar intro?
There are many factors that can make a great guitar intro, but some of the most important include:
•A strong melody
•A distinctive sound
•A sense of anticipation
What are some tips for writing a great guitar intro?
Here are a few tips for writing a great guitar intro:
•Start with a strong melody. This will help to grab the listener’s attention and set the tone for the rest of the song.
•Experiment with different sounds. Don’t be afraid to use distortion, reverb, or other effects to create a unique sound for your intro.
•Build anticipation. Use the intro to build anticipation for the rest of the song. This can be done by gradually increasing the volume or intensity of the riff.
