Get ready to embark on a sonic journey through the exhilarating world of electric guitar intros.
From thunderous power chords to mesmerizing melodies, these intros have etched their way into the annals of music history, captivating generations of listeners with their sheer brilliance.
In this article, we will delve into the realms of iconic rock anthems, timeless classics, and genre-defining masterpieces.
Each electric guitar intro on this list possesses its own unique charm, showcasing the creativity and virtuosity of legendary guitarists who have shaped the landscape of rock music.
Prepare to be electrified by thunderous openings, iconic riffs, and soul-stirring melodies of different music genres.Â
So, grab your air guitar, turn up the volume, and join us as we celebrate the 15 Best Electric Guitar Intros Ever!
1. Johnny Be Goode – Chuck Berry
Heading this list, we have a classic guitar intro that will be instantly recognized by anyone who listens to it.
We are talking about the rock anthem by Chuck Berry released in 1959 and included in the album Chuck Berry Is on Top.
The song’s guitar intro, played by Berry himself, is legendary for its catchy, bluesy riff and infectious energy and it has become one of the most famous guitar intros in rock history.
In addition, Berry’s guitar style, combining elements of blues and country, helped define the sound of rock and roll and influenced countless musicians to come.
2. Crazy Train – Ozzy Osbourne
Released in 1980 as the first single from Ozzy Osbourne’s debut solo album Blizzard of Ozz, this song has become a timeless hard rock classic.
The song’s iconic guitar intro, composed by Randy Rhoads, is instantly recognizable with its cascading arpeggios and heavy power chords.
Rhoads’ innovative and melodic guitar work in the intro sets the tone for the rest of the song, capturing the attention of listeners from the first note.
Interestingly, the intro was originally meant to be a warm-up exercise for the guitar player, but it quickly evolved into one of the most memorable guitar intros in rock history.
3. Heartbreaker – Led Zeppelin
Featured on their 1969 album Led Zeppelin II, Heartbreaker is a hard-hitting rock classic.
The song’s guitar intro, performed by Jimmy Page, is legendary for its bluesy licks, and fiery energy.
Page’s playing style in the intro showcases his exceptional guitar skills and sets the stage for the rest of the song.
Notably, the intro smoothly transitions into a powerful riff that drives the song forward, making it a standout moment in Led Zeppelin’s discography.
4. Master Of Puppets – Metallica
Released in 1986 as the title track of Metallica’s groundbreaking album, Master of Puppets is a monumental thrash metal epic.
The guitar intro was composed by James Hetfield and is acclaimed for its down-picked, palm-muted riff and voracious speed.
The dark atmosphere in the intro perfectly captures the song’s theme of manipulation and control, adding an extra layer of depth to the track’s sonic landscape.
Although the track was already famous and has become one of Metallica’s most recognizable guitar intros, it recently has a revival due to being included in the series Stranger Things.
5. Smoke on the Water – Deep Purple
What we have next is perhaps the best-known intro of all time.
From the 1972 album Machine Head, this iconic guitar riff composed by Ritchie Blackmore was inspired by a true event where Deep Purple’s recording session was interrupted by a fire at the Montreux Casino.
What is even more, is a quite easy-to-play tune, and in most cases the riff novice players first learn.
Thanks to its simplicity and memorable melody, the song is a favorite among guitarists learning to play rock music, earning its place as one of the most iconic guitar riffs in history.
6. Iron Man – Black Sabbath
The album Paranoid released in 1970 is plenty of memorable riffs such as War Pigs, Electric Funeral, and the track that gives its name to the album.
However, when it comes to memorable Black Sabbath’s riff the one that stands out is Iron Man.
The song’s guitar intro, crafted by the guitar player Tony Iommi, is known for its heavy, sludgy riff that sets the ominous tone of the track.
Interestingly, the intro was actually a result of a mistake during a rehearsal when Iommi accidentally detuned his guitar leading to the distinctive tune in the intro.
7. Plug In Baby – Muse
If you are a fanatic of the harmonic minor scale, this song takes it to the maximum level.
Featured in the album Origins of Symmetry and released in 2001, this track showcases the band’s signature blend of alternative rock and progressive elements.
Matt Bellamy’s virtuosic guitar playing, coupled with his unique guitar effects, creates a captivating and futuristic sound.
Besides, the technical complexity and melodic hooks in the intro have made it a favorite among guitarists and a staple in Muse’s live performances.
8. Joker and The Thief – Wolfmother
Released in 2005 as a single and later included on Wolfmother’s self-titled debut album, Joker and the Thief is a high-energy rock anthem.
The song’s guitar intro is recognizable at once for its electrifying tapped riff and explosive power chords.
Interestingly, the intro was inspired by the classic sound blending elements of blues and heavy rock.
This intro has the ability to captivate listeners with its infectious energy and melody plus was included in various films such as Shrek 3 and The Hangover.
9. Thunderstruck – AC/DC
What can we say about this intro that was not said before?
This incredible masterpiece is a standout in AC/DC’s catalog.
Released in 1990 as part of the album The Razors Edge, this descending riff has become one of the most recognizable guitar parts in rock history.
Curiously, it was created during a soundcheck before a live performance.
Angus Young was testing a new Gibson SG and came up with the idea of what would later be an inedible mark on rock music
10. The Trooper – Iron Maiden
Released in 1983 and included in the album Piece of Mind, this song is a heavy metal classic.
As Iron Maiden has accustomed us, this intro features dual guitars playing harmonized melodies, and a galloped, fast rhythm.
The intro’s iconic status is due to its powerful and melodic guitar work, showcasing the dual guitar harmonies that have become a trademark of Iron Maiden’s sound.
It remains a fan favorite to this day, inspiring generations to come.
11. Sweet Child O’ Mine – Guns N’ Roses
12. Are You Gonna Go My Way? – Lenny Kravitz
13. Walk This Way – Aerosmith
14. Revolution – The Beatles
15. Layla – Derek and The Dominos
Hello there, my name is Ramiro and I’ve been playing guitar for almost 20 years. I’m obsessed with everything gear-related and I thought it might be worth sharing it. From guitars, pedals, amps, and synths to studio gear and production tips, I hope you find what I post here useful, and I’ll try my best to keep it entertaining also.
