For guitarists, the spotlight—the very face of a song—is the guitar riff.
Songs with riffs that symbolize the track really stick in your memory, and many classic hits in the rock scene come hand in hand with amazing riffs!
In this article, we’ve rounded up a bunch of songs with killer guitar riffs.
Just listening to cool riffs is enough to get your blood pumping, but if you’re a guitarist, why not pick up your guitar and try playing along?
There aren’t just single-note phrases—there are riffs built around power chords and octaves too, so try tackling all kinds of riffs from different songs!
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Makes you want to play it! Japanese rock songs with the coolest guitar riffs (1–10)
BAD FEELINGBOØWY
The guitar riff that opens “BAD FEELING” exudes a singular presence in the Japanese rock scene.
Its uniquely rhythmic cutting, etched with precision, remains an unforgettable melody that has never lost its luster.
Hotei Tomoyasu’s signature sense of thrilling rhythm and technique will greatly help improve your skills if you take on the challenge.
It’s a highly recommended track for everyone who loves Japanese rock.
BuddhaRADWIMPS
RADWIMPS’ controversial 2009 track “Oshakashama.” From the intro, the fiercely striking refrain is delivered by an insanely intricate, interwoven double lead guitar.
It’s memorable how they use it almost like a bridge in the interlude, showcasing the polish of their guitar technique.
The chorus is also highly rhythmic and dynamic, and after that torrent of development, the refrain returns in the outro, with subtle variations added bit by bit.
Hats off to the tastefulness of the refrain’s arrangement.
The End of the WorldTHEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT
“Sekai no Owari,” the ultimate guitar rock tune by THEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT released in 1996.
This track has fired up countless live houses and rock festivals.
While the powerful vocals and driving eight-beat are its obvious attractions, the guitar riff is also a huge part of the song’s identity.
The octave technique quintessential to guitar rock forms the core of its groove, making it a track defined by a rough yet beautiful riff.
RewriteASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION
ASIAN KUNG-FU GENERATION is a band that has had such a huge impact that you could say their arrival sparked an innovation in Japanese guitar rock.
Their song “Rewrite” is the track that put them on the map—a supremely exhilarating and satisfying rock tune.
The lead guitar features solid, powerful power chords interwoven with phrases and muted playing; both could be considered riffs.
It’s a simple yet highly effective guitar riff!
Robinsonsupittsu
Spitz’s classic 1995 song “Robinson.” When you think of this song’s refrain, it has to be the beautiful phrase in the intro repeating, right? The moment that opening phrase rings out to announce the start of the song, I suddenly feel my chest tighten.
Then Masamune Kusano’s vocals come in, and the way the song’s development grows more and more dramatic moves me every time I listen.
If you’re going to tackle this guitar phrase, why not focus not only on playing the melody but also on the tone itself?
COCOARei
Starting with a snappy, chopped guitar riff, the song pairs Rei’s translucent vocals with a portrayal of the downsides of digital devices.
Skillfully weaving in everyday scenes—like packed commuter trains and couples at dinner—it conveys the importance of human connection and cherishing the present moment.
Featured on the album ORB, released in September 2016, this track stands out for its distinctive blend of pop rock and house elements.
It’s a song that reminds smartphone-absorbed modern listeners of the beauty of the real world.
Highly recommended for anyone living in our digital society.
A Fact Of LifeFACT
Opening with a strummed guitar phrase, this track by FACT blends elements of post-hardcore and progressive rock.
It appears on their April 2009 album, Fact.
The eccentric guitar riffs that use a Whammy pedal add a sharp accent to the rock sound.
The lyrics deliver a strong message, confronting memories of the past and questioning the importance of carving out one’s own history.
With its driving energy and powerful vocals, this song is recommended for moments when you want to reflect on your life or take a bold new step forward.