Are you a beginner guitarist itching to play something instantly recognizable and cool? Forget boring scales and repetitive exercises for a moment. What if you could dive straight into playing iconic guitar riffs from famous songs? Sounds much more exciting, right?
For any aspiring electric guitar player, learning riffs is not just fun, it’s fundamental. Riffs are the building blocks of countless songs, and mastering them will not only expand your musical vocabulary but also develop essential guitar techniques without you even realizing you’re practicing.
This guide is packed with over 50 popular songs featuring easy electric guitar riffs, perfectly tailored for beginners like you. We’ve curated a list that spans genres and eras, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy and learn. While most of these riffs are beginner-friendly, some offer a slight challenge to help you progressively improve. Consider this your starting point to becoming a riff master!
To make the most of this list, remember these simple tips when learning each riff:
- Start Slow: Don’t rush! Accuracy is key at the beginning. Play the riff slowly and correctly first.
- Practice Regularly: Consistent practice, even in short bursts, is more effective than long, infrequent sessions.
- Increase Speed Gradually: As you become comfortable, slowly increase your tempo. Let your speed develop naturally.
- Perfect and Perform: Aim for clean, accurate playing. Once you’ve nailed a riff, play it for friends and family – it’s a great way to show off your progress and stay motivated!
Let’s plug in and get started with these awesome electric guitar riffs!
Easy Electric Guitar Riffs for Beginners: Dive into Iconic Songs
Here, we’ve categorized riffs by genre to help you explore different styles and find what resonates with you. Each riff includes essential information, tablature to get you playing immediately, and a link to a tutorial for detailed guidance.
Classic Rock Riffs for Beginners
Classic rock riffs are often built on simple chord progressions and memorable melodies, making them fantastic starting points for beginner electric guitarists.
1. Ain’t Talkin’ ’Bout Love – Van Halen
Genre: Hard Rock | BPM: 140 | Released: 1978 | Tabs | Tutorial
Eddie Van Halen’s legendary guitar work is on full display in this dynamic riff. “Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love” is perfect for beginners to learn techniques like accents and palm muting. It’s a powerful and instantly recognizable riff that sounds incredibly cool, and it’s easier to play than you might think!
e|----------0-1-----3----------------|
B|------1-------1-----3--------------|
G|--------2-------2------------------|
D|----2------------------------------|
A|--0---------------------3~----2-3--|
E|----------------------3------------|2. Back In Black – AC/DC
Genre: Hard Rock | BPM: 94 | Released: 1980 | Tabs | Tutorial
No list of guitar riffs is complete without AC/DC! “Back In Black” boasts one of the most recognizable riffs of all time. What makes it great for beginners? It uses a combination of chords and single notes, introducing you to both aspects of electric guitar playing in one go. It’s a foundational riff that every guitarist should learn.
e|-------------------------------------|--------------3-0------------------|
B|------------------3-3-3--------------|--------------------3-0------------|
G|------------------2-2-2----------2-2-|2-----------------------2^(4)`2p0--|
D|-2----------------0-0-0----------2-2-|2----------------------------------|
A|-2-------------------------------0-0-|0----------------------------------|
E|-0-----------------------------------|-----------------------------------|
e|------------------------------------|-----------------------------------|
B|-----------------3-3-3--------------|-----------------------------------|
G|-----------------2-2-2----------2-2-|2---------------------------------o|
D|-2---------------0-0-0----------2-2-|2---------------------------------o|
A|-2------------------------------0-0-|0---2-----2-----2-----2-2----------|
E|-0----------------------------------|------4.----5.----6.---------------|3. Crazy Train – Ozzy Osbourne
Genre: Heavy Metal | BPM: 138 | Released: 1980 | Tabs | Tutorial
Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train” is a heavy metal anthem with a riff that’s both iconic and surprisingly accessible. Randy Rhoads’ guitar work here is based on the F# natural minor scale, introducing you to the darker sounds often found in metal music. There are actually two riffs in this song – one by the bass and one by the lead guitar – both worth learning!
e|------------------------------------------------------------------|
B|------------------------------------------------------------------|
G|------------------------------------------------------------------| (x3)
D|------------------------------------------------------------------|
A|-----------4-------5-------4-------2--------------2---------------|
E|-----2-2-------2-------2-------2-------5---4---5-----5---4---0----|
e|------------------------------------------------------------|
B|------------------------------------------------------------|
G|------------------------------------------------------------|
D|-----------------------------------7-------9----------------|
A|-----------4-------5-------4-------5-------7------(12\)-----|
E|-----2-2-------2-------2-------2------------------(12\)-----|4. Day Tripper – The Beatles
Genre: Pop Rock | BPM: 138 | Released: 1965 | Tabs | Tutorial
Simplicity is genius, and “Day Tripper” by The Beatles proves it. This entire song is built around a single, incredibly famous riff. Learning this riff demonstrates how much you can achieve with just a few well-placed notes. It’s catchy, fun, and a must-know for any guitarist exploring classic rock.
e|-----------------------------|
B|-----------------------------|
G|-----------------------------|
D|-------------2-0---4----0-2--|
A|----------2------2----2------|
E|--0--3-4---------------------|5. Heartbreaker – Led Zeppelin
Genre: Hard Rock | BPM: 98 | Released: 1969 | Tabs | Tutorial
Jimmy Page’s riffs are legendary, and “Heartbreaker” is no exception. This hard rock riff is based on the A blues scale, giving it that classic rock edge. It’s actually two riffs in one, played a whole tone apart, providing a great way to expand your riff-playing skills.
Riff 1 (x3)
e|-------|-----------------------|---------------------------|
B|-------|-----------------------|---------------------------|
G|-------|-----------------------|---------------------------|
D|-------|-----------0--1-2------|---------------0--1-2------|
A|-------|---0--3~---------------|---0-0-0-0-3~--------------|
E|--3b---|------------------3b---|-----------------------3b--|
Riff 2
e|--------------------|--------------------------------------|
B|--------------------|--------------------------------------|
G|--------------------|--------------------------------------|
D|--------2--3-4------|-------------2--3-4-------------------|
A|--2--5--------------|--2-2-2-2-5---------------------------|
E|----------------5b--|---------------------5b---------------|6. Iron Man – Black Sabbath
Genre: Heavy Metal | BPM: 155 | Released: 1971 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Iron Man” is pure, classic heavy metal. This song and its signature riff remain favorites for guitarists worldwide. Played in the key of A, the “Iron Man” riff is powerful, dark, and surprisingly simple to learn, making it a perfect entry point into metal riffs.
e|---------------------------------|--------------------------------------|
B|---------------------------------|--------------------------------------|
G|---------------------------------|--------------------------------------|
D|---------7-------7--/9---9-------|-12\11-12\11-12-\-7---7--/9---9-------|
A|-9-------5-------5--/7---7-------|-10\9--10\9--10-\-5---5--/7---7-------|
E|-7-------------------------------|--------------------------------------|7. Money for Nothing – Dire Straits
Genre: Rock | BPM: 134 | Released: 1985 | Tabs | Tutorial
Mark Knopfler’s distinctive guitar style is instantly recognizable in “Money for Nothing”. This riff, while slightly more challenging than some others here, is still achievable for determined beginners. It uses the G minor pentatonic scale and its various shapes, providing a great introduction to moving around the neck within a scale.
e|---------------|------------------|-----------------|------------------|
B|-------------6-|------------------|-----------------|------------------|
G|-7--7--x-5h7-5-|----7-5-7-5-3--0--|----0--(0)-3---0-|-----------5--3-0-|
D|-5--5--x-5-5---|----5-5-5-5-3--0--|----0--(0)-3---0-|-3--(3)/5--3--3-0-|
A|---------------|------------------|-----------------|-1--(1)/3---------|
E|---------------|------------------|-----------------|------------------|
e|-------------------|-----------------|------------------------|----------------|
B|-------------------|-----------------|-8----------------------|----------------|
G|----7---5-5-5h7-|---7-5-7-5-3-0-x-|-0-------------0--3-0---|----------------|
D|----5---5-5-5-5-|---5-5-5-5-3-0-x-|-0-------------0--3-0---|-3--(3)/5--5~---|
A|-------------------|-----------------|------------------------|-3--(3)/5--5~---|
E|-------------------|-----------------|------------------------|----------------|8. Rebel Rebel – David Bowie
Genre: Pop Rock | BPM: 126 | Released: 1974 | Tabs | Tutorial
David Bowie, a true rock innovator, gifted us with “Rebel Rebel”. This riff is the backbone of the entire song, making it a very efficient learn – master the riff, and you’ve essentially learned the song! It’s a catchy and energetic riff perfect for practicing your rhythm and chord transitions.
e|----0------------|-------------------|
B|----5---3---2-0--|0-------2p0--------|
G|--------2---2-1--|1-----------1-----o|
D|-0------------2--|2-------------2---o|
A|-----------------|-------------------|
E|-----------------|------0------------|9. Satisfaction – Rolling Stones
Genre: Rock | BPM: 136 | Released: 1965 | Tabs | Tutorial
Considered one of the greatest songs ever written, “Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones features a riff made of just three notes! This iconic riff proves that you don’t need complexity to create something unforgettable. It’s excellent for beginners to focus on groove and feel.
e|------------------------------|
B|------------------------------|
G|------------------------------|
D|------------------------------|
A|-2--2----2--4--5----5-5p4-4p2-|
E|------------------------------|10. Smoke on the Water – Deep Purple
Genre: Rock | BPM: 112 | Released: 1972 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Smoke on the Water” boasts arguably the most famous intro riff in rock history. This riff is incredibly simple to learn, using just a few notes and power chords. It’s a rite of passage for any beginner electric guitarist and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
e|-----------------|---------------|----------------|-------|
B|-----------------|---------------|----------------|-------|
G|--0---3---5----0-|---3---6-5-----|-0---3---5----3-|---0---|
D|--0---3---5----0-|---3---6-5-----|-0---3---5----3-|---0---|
A|-----------------|---------------|----------------|-------|
E|-----------------|---------------|----------------|-------|11. Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
Genre: Rock | BPM: 82 | Released: 1973 | Tabs | Tutorial
Instantly recognizable and undeniably catchy, the riff from “Sweet Home Alabama” is a classic of Southern rock. While categorized as beginner-intermediate, determined beginners can definitely tackle this riff. It’s a great exercise for developing fingerpicking patterns and chord transitions.
e|------------------------------------------------|
B|----3----------3--------------------------------|
G|------2----------0-------0----------------------|
D|0-0-----0----------0------------0h2p0-----------|
A|------------3-3-------------0h2--------2-0h3----|
E|---------------------3-3------------------------|
e|------------------------------------------------|
B|----3---------3---------------------------------|
G|------2-0-------0-------0-----0-2p0-0-4p0-0-5b--|
D|0-0---------------0-----------------------------|
A|----------3-3-----------------------------------|
E|--------------------3-3-------------------------|12. You Really Got Me – The Kinks
Genre: Rock | BPM: 120 | Released: 1964 | Tabs | Tutorial
The Kinks were pioneers of rock, and “You Really Got Me” features a truly iconic riff. This riff is built on a simple two-chord structure, making it very accessible for beginners. It’s a foundational riff that has inspired countless musicians and is a must-learn for anyone interested in the roots of rock guitar.
INTRO
e|-------------|
B|-------------|
G|-------------|
D|-3--5-5-3-5--| X4
A|-3--5-5-3-5--|
E|-1--3-3-1-3--|13. Thunderstruck – AC/DC
Genre: Hard Rock | BPM: 134 | Released: 1990 | Tabs | Tutorial
Another AC/DC classic! “Thunderstruck” is famous for its high-energy intro riff. The beauty for beginners? It can be played entirely using hammer-ons and pull-offs, meaning you don’t even need to pick every note! This riff is fantastic for developing accuracy and speed in your fretting hand.
e|------------------------------------|--------------------------------|
B|--0h4p0h7p0h4p0h7p0h4p0h7p0h4p0h7p0h|4p0h7p0h4p0h7p0h4p0h7p0h4p0h7p0h|
G|------------------------------------|--------------------------------|
D|------------------------------------|--------------------------------|
A|------------------------------------|--------------------------------|
E|------------------------------------|--------------------------------|Hard Rock & Metal Riffs for Beginners
Want to add some power to your playing? These hard rock and metal riffs, while still beginner-friendly, bring in a heavier sound and introduce you to the energy of these genres.
14. Breaking the Law – Judas Priest
Genre: Heavy Metal | BPM: 82 | Released: 1980 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Breaking the Law” by Judas Priest is a heavy metal anthem with a riff that’s both iconic and incredibly easy to play. It’s based in A minor and uses a classic heavy metal chord progression. This riff is pure fun to play, especially when you crank up the distortion!
e|---------------------------|---------------------------|
B|---------------------------|---------------------------|
G|---------------------------|---------------------------|
D|---------------------------|---------------------------|
A|--0--2--3--0-2--3--0-2--3--|--------0-------0----3--2--|
E|---------------------------|--1--3-----1-3-----3-------|15. Enter Sandman – Metallica
Genre: Heavy Metal | BPM: 123 | Released: 1991 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Enter Sandman” is Metallica’s signature song, and its intro riff is instantly recognizable. Starting with a haunting acoustic guitar melody before exploding into the electric riff, “Enter Sandman” is a must-know for any aspiring metal guitarist. The main electric riff is based on power chords and a slide, making it manageable for beginners while still sounding incredibly heavy.
Intro riff
e|---------------------------|
B|---------------------------|
G|---------------------------|
D|-----------5---------------|
A|--------7--------------7---|
E|--0-----------6--5---------|
Main riff
e|------------------------|
B|------------------------|
G|------------------------| x3
D|------------------------|
A|--2-----2--/7-----------|
E|--0-----0------6--5-----|16. Eye of the Tiger – Survivor
Genre: Rock | BPM: 116 | Released: 1982 | Tabs | Tutorial
The theme song to Rocky III, “Eye of the Tiger,” features an incredibly motivational and iconic power chord riff. This riff is fantastic for beginners to practice moving power chords up and down the guitar neck. It’s simple, powerful, and guaranteed to get you pumped up!
e|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
B|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
G|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
D|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
A|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
E|-8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8-|
e|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
B|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
G|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
D|--10-----10--8---10-----10--8---10-----10--5---6---------------------------| x2
A|--10-----10--8---10-----10--8---10-----10--5---6---------------------------|
E|--8------8---6---8------8---6---8------8---3---4---------------------------|17. Crazy Train – Ozzy Osbourne (Again!)
Yes, “Crazy Train” is so good it deserves another mention in the hard rock/metal section! It perfectly bridges classic rock and heavy metal, offering beginner guitarists a fantastic riff to learn in either genre.
18. Owner of a Lonely Heart – Yes
Genre: Rock | BPM: 125 | Released: 1983 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Owner of a Lonely Heart” by Yes is a unique rock track with a killer, distorted riff. This riff is a great workout for power chords and sliding techniques. The verse riff follows a similar chord progression, so once you learn the intro, you’re well on your way to playing the whole song!
e|-------------------|
B|-------------------|
G|----4/5--7-7-------|
D|-7--4/5--7-7----5--|
A|-7--2/3--5-5----5--|
E|-5--------------3--|19. Whole Lotta Love – Led Zeppelin
Genre: Classic Metal | BPM: 90 | Released: 1969 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Whole Lotta Love” is another Led Zeppelin riff that’s essential for any guitarist. This riff relies on a steady rhythm hand and introduces you to string muting techniques. Crank up the distortion and get ready to groove!
e|------------------------|---------------------------------|
B|------------------------|---------------------------------|
G|------------------------|---------------------------------|
D|---------------0-----0--|-9-------9-------9-------9-------|
A|---------------5/----5/-|-7-------7-------7-------7-------|
E|------------7-----7-----|-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-|
e|---------------------|
B|---------------------|
G|---------------------|
D|-9-------9-------9-9-|
A|-7-------7-------7-7-|
E|-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-|Pop & Alternative Rock Riffs for Beginners
Pop and alternative rock often feature catchy and melodic riffs that are perfect for beginners looking to play more contemporary sounds.
20. Are You Gonna Be My Girl – Jet
Genre: Rock | BPM: 105 | Released: 2003 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Are You Gonna Be My Girl” by Jet is a high-energy rock track with a riff that’s both simple and incredibly dynamic. It’s a fantastic riff for beginners to learn as it’s repetitive and forms the basis of much of the song. Plus, it’s just a lot of fun to play!
E|---------------------|
B|---------------------|
G|-------------------5-|
D|-7-7-7-x-7-7-7-7-7-5-|
A|-7-7-7-x-7-7-7-7-7---|
E|---------------------|
E|---------------------|
B|-----7b8r7-----------|
G|---5-7b8r7-5---------|
D|-7-----------7-7-5-7-|
A|-------------------7-|
E|---------------------|21. Are You Gonna Go My Way – Lenny Kravitz
Genre: Rock | BPM: 129 | Released: 1993 | Tabs | Tutorial
Lenny Kravitz’s “Are You Gonna Go My Way” still packs a punch decades after its release. The intro riff is a modern classic and a great one to learn on electric guitar. It’s in Em and features bends that will give your fingers a good workout, helping you build strength and calluses.
Main riff
|-------------------------------------------3----|
|-------------------------------------------3----|
|-2-^4-^2-p0-------------2-^4-^2-p0--------------|
|------------2---0-2----------------2---0-2------|
|------------------------------------------------|
|--------------0-------0--------------0----------|
Harmonized riff
|---------------------------------------|
|---------------------------------------|
|------14b15r14-12----------------------|
|---------------------14----12-14--(12)-|
|------------------------14-------------|
|---------------------------------------|22. Beat It – Michael Jackson
Genre: Pop | BPM: 138 | Released: 1982 | Tabs | Tutorial
Michael Jackson’s “Beat It” isn’t just a pop song; it’s a guitar song thanks to Eddie Van Halen’s iconic guest solo and this catchy riff! While the original is in Eb tuning, you can learn the riff in standard tuning too. It’s a fantastic riff to add to your repertoire, proving that pop music can have killer guitar parts.
eb|-----|-----------------|-----------------|
Bb|-----|-----------------|-----------------|
Gb|-----|-----------------|-----------------|
Db|-----|--------5-2----4-|---2-0---0-------|
Ab|-----|------2----------|-----------------|
Eb|---0-|(0)-3------------|---------------0-|
eb|-----------------|-------------|
Bb|-----------------|-------------|
Gb|-----------------|-------------|
Db|--------5-2----4-|---2-0-------|
Ab|------2----------|-------------|
Eb|(0)-3------------|-------------|23. By The Way – Red Hot Chili Peppers
Genre: Funk Rock | BPM: 117 | Released: 2002 | Tabs | Tutorial
Red Hot Chili Peppers are masters of funk rock riffs, and “By The Way” is a prime example. The intro riff is excellent practice for developing your timing and rhythm. It might sound simple, but staying perfectly on beat is the real challenge and a crucial skill for any guitarist. The riff uses power chords and variations, making it both fun and educational.
e|-------------------------|-------------------------|-----------------|-----------------|
B|-------------------------|-------------------------|-----------------|-----------------|
G|-------------------------|-------------------------|-----------------|-----------------|
D|-10-10-10-10-10-10-10-10-|-10-10-10-10-10-10-10-10-|-----------------|-----------------|
A|--8--8--8--8--8--8--8--8-|--7--7--7--7--7--7--7--7-|-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-|-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-|
E|-------------------------|-------------------------|-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-|-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-5-|24. Chasing Cars – Snow Patrol
Genre: Rock | BPM: 104 | Released: 2006 | Tabs | Tutorial
Snow Patrol’s “Chasing Cars” is a popular rock ballad with a simple yet effective intro riff. Like “By The Way,” the challenge here is in maintaining consistent timing and rhythm. The riff itself is easy to play, making it ideal for beginners to focus on developing their rhythmic feel.
e|------------------------------------------------------------------|
B|------------------------------------------------------------------|
G|--9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-9-|
D|-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-7-6-6-6-6-6-6-6-6-0-0-0-0-0-0-0-0--|
A|------------------------------------------------------------------|
E|------------------------------------------------------------------|25. Come As You Are – Nirvana
Genre: Grunge | BPM: 120 | Released: 1992 | Tabs | Tutorial
Nirvana’s “Come As You Are” is grunge at its finest, with a distinctive and instantly recognizable intro riff. This riff uses an alternate tuning (dropped D), which is a valuable experience for beginner guitarists to explore. While the tuning change adds a step, the riff itself is quite simple and iconic.
D|--------||-----------------------------------||
A|--------||-----------------------------------||
F|--------||o---------------------------------o|| x4
x C|--------||o---------------------------------o||
G|--------||------0---0---------2-------2------||
D|--0-0-1-||--2-----2---2-2-1-0---0-0-----0-1--||26. Lose Yourself – Eminem
Genre: Hip Hop | BPM: 171 | Released: 2002 | Tabs | Tutorial
Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” might be a hip-hop track, but it’s built around an aggressive and powerful guitar riff! This riff primarily uses power chords, which are essential for rock and metal guitar. It’s a simple riff, making it very accessible for beginners, and it’s a great way to learn accented notes and rhythmic power chord playing.
e|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
B|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
G|---------------------------------------------------------------------------o|
D|-------------7---------------7-------8---8---8---8-----------8---8-5-------o|
A|-----5---5---5---5---5---5---5---5---5---5---5---5---5---5---5---5----------|
E|----------------------------------------------------------------------------|27. Other Side – Red Hot Chili Peppers
Genre: Alternative Rock | BPM: 122 | Released: 2000 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Other Side” is another fantastic RHCP riff, known for its simplicity and catchiness. Played in the key of Am, this riff is one of the easiest on this list, making it perfect for absolute beginner guitarists. Enjoy the groove!
e|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
B|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
G|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------|
D|--------------7--7--9--7-----------------------------------------------------|
A|-----7--7--7--------------10--7--------5--5--5-------------------------------|
E|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------|28. Plush – Stone Temple Pilots
Genre: Grunge | BPM: 72 | Released: 1993 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Plush” by Stone Temple Pilots features a very recognizable electric guitar riff that works beautifully on both electric and acoustic guitars. The intro riff is a great exercise in chord transitions and fingerstyle playing, even on electric. Its versatility makes it a valuable riff to learn.
e||--3-3---3-(3)----|-3-3---3-(3)--3-3-3--||-3-3---3-(3)----|-3-3---3-|
B||o-3-3---2-(2)----|-1-1---0-(0)--0-1-2-o||-3-3---2-(2)----|-1-1---0-|
G||--0-0---3-(3)----|-2-2---0-(0)--0-0-0--||-0-0---3-(3)----|-2-2---0-|
D||-----------------|---------------------||----------------|-------0-|
A||o----------------|--------------------o||----------------|---------|
E||-----------------|---------------------||----------------|---------|29. Seven Nation Army – White Stripes
Genre: Alternative Rock | BPM: 120 | Released: 2003 | Tabs | Tutorial
The White Stripes are known for their minimalist approach, and “Seven Nation Army” is the epitome of simple yet incredibly effective songwriting. This super-simple riff became a massive hit and a stadium anthem. Played in the key of E, it’s perfect for very early beginner guitarists to learn and instantly feel like a rock star.
e|------------------|
B|------------------|
G|------------------|
D|------------------|
A|-7-7-10-7---------|
E|----------10-8-7--|30. Smells Like Teen Spirit – Nirvana
Genre: Grunge | BPM: 116 | Released: 1991 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” is the anthem of a generation, and its iconic riff is built from just four power chords. The key to nailing this riff is getting the timing and strumming pattern right. Practice it until it grooves like the original, and you’ll be playing a piece of rock history.
e|----------------------|----------------------|
B|----------------------|----------------------|
G|----------------3-3-0-|----------------6-6-6-|
D|-3--3-3-x-x-x-x-3-3-0-|-6--6-6-x-x-x-x-6-6-6-|
A|-3--3-3-x-x-x-x-1-1-0-|-6--6-6-x-x-x-x-4-4-4-|
E|-1--1-1-x-x-x-x-------|-4--4-4-x-x-x-x-------|31. You Only Live Once – The Strokes
Genre: Alternative | BPM: 120 | Released: 2006 | Tabs | Tutorial
The Strokes are known for their catchy riffs and cool guitar work. The intro and verse riff from “You Only Live Once” is a personal favorite. It involves holding down three-string chords and applying rhythmic strumming, making it a great exercise for chord work and rhythm.
e|----9-9-9-9-9--7-7-7-7-7----9-9-9-9-9---6-6-6-6-6------|
B|----9-9-9-9-9--9-9-9-9-9----7-7-7-7-7---7-7-7-7-7------|
G|----9-9-9-9-9--9-9-9-9-9----8-8-8-8-8---6-6-6-6-6------|
D|-------------------------------------------------------|
A|-------------------------------------------------------|
E|--0-----------------------7----------------------------|32. Snow (Hey Oh) – Red Hot Chili Peppers
Genre: Rock | BPM: 108 | Released: 2006 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Snow (Hey Oh)” by RHCP is a riff that will build your hand strength and endurance. John Frusciante plays this intricate riff almost non-stop for the entire song! While challenging in its stamina demand, the core riff patterns are manageable for determined beginners willing to practice fingerpicking and fast, precise movements.
e|-------------------|-------------------|-------------------|-------------------|
B|-------------------|-------------------|-------------------|-------------------|
G|-----4---4h6p4---4-|-----4---4h6p4---4-|-------------------|-----6---6h8p6---6-|
D|---6---6-------6---|---6---6-------6---|-----4---4h6p4---4-|---8---8-------8---|
A|-6-----------------|-7-----------------|---6---6-------6---|-9-----------------|
E|-------------------|-------------------|-7-----------------|-------------------|33. Message in a Bottle – The Police
Genre: Rock | BPM: 151 | Released: 1979 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Message in a Bottle” by The Police features a classic riff that will test your finger stretches and speed. It’s a fast-paced and intricate riff, but incredibly rewarding once you get it up to speed. It’s a great exercise in developing dexterity and precision in your fretting hand.
e|------------------------------------------------|
B|------------------------------------------------|
G|--------8---------------------------------------|
D|-----6-------------9----------11----------6\7---|
A|--4-------------7----------9-----------4--------|
E|-------------5----------7-----------2-----------|Blues & Soul Riffs for Beginners
Blues and soul riffs often have a distinctive groove and feel. These riffs are perfect for beginners to explore rhythm and musical expression on the electric guitar.
34. Dock of the Bay – Otis Redding
Genre: Soul | BPM: 104 | Released: 1968 | Tabs | Tutorial
Otis Redding’s timeless classic “Dock of the Bay” is based on chords, but by adding walk-ups and walk-downs, you can create a wonderfully groovy riff. This approach is a fantastic way to learn how to connect chords melodically and add your own flavor to your playing.
E |-----------------------2L---|--2-----x-----2-----x-------|
B |--------x--------------0L---|--0-----x-----0-----x-------|
G |--------x--------------2L---|--2-----x-----2-----x-------|
D |--------x--------------1L---|--1-----x-----1-----x-------|
A |--------x--------0--1--2L---|--2-----x--2--------x-------|
E |--3-----x-----3-------------|----------------------------|
E |----------------------------|----------------------------||
B |--5-----x-----5--4--3--2L---|--2-----x-----2-----x-------||
G |--5-----x-----5--4--3--2L---|--2-----x-----2-----x-------||
D |--5-----x-----5--4--3--2L---|--2-----x-----2-----x-------||
A |--3-----x-----3--2--1--0L---|--0-----x--0--------x-------||
E |----------------------------|----------------------------||35. House of the Rising Sun – The Animals
Genre: Folk Ballad | BPM: 78 | Released: 1964 | Tabs | Tutorial
“House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals is a classic folk ballad with a haunting and beautiful riff. The main riff is actually a series of arpeggiated chords played in 6/8 time. Learning this riff introduces you to arpeggios and different time signatures, while also sounding fantastic.
e|----------0---------------0---------------2-----------------1-----------|
B|--------1---1-----------1---1-----------3----3------------1---1---------|
G|------2-------2-------0-------0-------2--------2--------2-------2-------|
D|----2---------------2-------------0-0--------------3-3------------------|
A|--0---------------3-----------------------------------------------------|
E|------------------------------------------------------------------------|
e|----------0-----------------0---------------0----------------0------------|
B|--------1---1-------------0---0-----------1---1------------0---0----------|
G|------2-------2---------1-------1-------2--------2-------1-------1--------|
D|----2-----------------2---------------2----------------2------------------|
A|--0---------------------------------0-------------------------------------|
E|------------------0----------------------------------0--------------------|36. Mannish Boy – Muddy Waters
Genre: Chicago Blues | BPM: 111 | Released: 1955 | Tabs | Tutorial
Muddy Waters’ “Mannish Boy” is a foundational blues riff that everyone has likely heard, even if they don’t know the song’s name. This riff is punchy, powerful, and based on just three power chords. It’s incredibly easy to learn but mastering the rhythm and bluesy feel is key.
e|-------------------------------|
B|--------7----5-----------------|
G|--------7----5h6--6------------|
D|---/7v----7-------7------------|
A|-------------------------------|
E|-------------------------------|37. My Girl – The Temptations
Genre: Soul | BPM: 104 | Released: 1964 | Tabs | Tutorial
“My Girl” by The Temptations is a classic soul song with a riff that’s guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. The arpeggios in this riff outline C major and F major chords. It’s a beautiful and uplifting riff, perfect for learning arpeggio patterns and adding some soul to your playing.
e|--------------|
B|-----------1--|
G|-------0-2----|
D|---0-2--------|
A|-3------------|
E|--------------|
e|--------------|
B|--------------|
G|--------------|
D|---------0-3--|
A|-----0-3------|
E|-1-3----------|38. Redemption Song – Bob Marley
Genre: Reggae | BPM: 116 | Released: 1980 | Tabs | Tutorial
Bob Marley’s “Redemption Song” is a reggae classic and a fantastic song for beginner guitarists. The intro riff is likely the most popular G major riff ever recorded. It’s very simple and perfect for early beginners, focusing on basic chords and a gentle reggae feel.
|-------------------------|---------------------------|
|-------------------------|---------------------------|
|-------------------------|---------------------------|
|-----------------0h2-0---|------------0--------------|
|-----0-0h2---2h3-------2-|------0-0h2---2-2h3-2-0----|
|2h3--------3-------------|-2h3--------------------3--|39. Smokestack Lightning – Hubert Sumlin (Howlin’ Wolf)
Genre: Blues | BPM: 146 | Released: 1956 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Smokestack Lightning,” played by Hubert Sumlin for Howlin’ Wolf, is a classic blues riff that requires a unique technique. Your thumb provides a steady bass beat while your fingers play the melody. This riff is challenging in its thumb independence, but mastering this technique will open up a new dimension in your playing.
|-0---3b-------------------------|
|---------------3----------------|
|-----------2/4---4---2p0--------|
|-------------------------2p0-2--|
|--------------------------------|
|-0---0---0---0---0---0---0---0--|Other Fun & Easy Riffs
This section includes riffs that might not fit neatly into the above genres but are still fantastic and easy for beginners to learn!
40. Always on the Run – Lenny Kravitz
Genre: Rock | BPM: 90 | Released: 1991 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Always on the Run” by Lenny Kravitz, featuring Slash, is a catchy rock riff in Em. This riff has funk elements and is played throughout the song. It’s a great riff to learn if you enjoy a blend of rock and funk, and it’s surprisingly approachable for beginners.
e|--------------------------------|---------------------------------|
B|--------------------------------|---------------------------------|
G|--------------------------------|---------------------------------|
D|---------------------5p0--------|----------------------------0h2--|
A|----7--5p4----5---------------7-|----7--5p4----5---5-5p2----------|
E|-0----------0------0-------0----|-0----------0-----------3p0------|41. Fortunate Son – Creedence Clearwater Revival
Genre: Rock | BPM: 133 | Released: 1969 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Fortunate Son” by Creedence Clearwater Revival is a song with deep roots and a signature riff instantly recognizable to anyone who’s turned on a radio. Played in C major and featuring lots of slides, this riff is perfect for practicing your slide technique while learning a classic song.
e|-----------------------------|
B|----8----6-----5-----3-------|
G|-----------------------------|
D|-7/9--6/7---4/5---2/3--------|
A|-------------------------2b--|
E|---------------------------3-|42. I Feel Fine – The Beatles
Genre: Pop Rock | BPM: 90 | Released: 1964 | Tabs | Tutorial
John Lennon penned the memorable riff for “I Feel Fine,” another Beatles classic. This riff is slightly more challenging as it introduces barre chords. However, with practice, it’s definitely achievable and a rewarding riff to add to your Beatles repertoire.
e|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
B|---------------------------------------------------------------------------|
G|------------------12-11-9----11-------------------10-9-7----9--------------|
D|----12-12-10--------------14---------10-10-8-------------12----------------|
A|-------12----(12)-----------------------10---(10)--------------------------|
E|-10-----------------------------10/8---------------------------------------|43. I Will Follow – U2
Genre: Rock | BPM: 156 | Released: 1980 | Tabs | Tutorial
“I Will Follow” by U2 is a fast-paced, energetic track with a riff played in Ab. This riff, like “Chasing Cars” and “By The Way,” is excellent for developing your sense of rhythm and timing. The challenge lies in keeping time at its faster tempo.
e|----0--0--0--0--0--0--0--0--|---0--0--0-12-12-12--0--0--|
B|---12-12-12-12-12-12-12-12--|--10-10-10-10-10-10-10-10--|
G|----9--9--9--9--9--9--9--9--|---9--9--9--9--9--9--9--9--|
D|----------------------------|---------------------------|
A|----------------------------|---------------------------|
E|----------------------------|---------------------------|44. In My Life – The Beatles
Genre: Rock | BPM: 104 | Released: 1965 | Tabs | Tutorial
“In My Life” by The Beatles features a less famous but still wonderful riff that’s a great finger workout. It involves plucking individual strings and transitioning into chords in quick succession. Played in C major, it’s a melodic and engaging riff to learn.
e|----5---------4------------------|
B|2-------2h3-5--------------------|
G|---------------------------------|
D|---------------------------------|
A|---------------------------------|
E|---------------------------------|45. La Bamba – Richie Valens
Genre: Rock and Roll | BPM: 76 | Released: 1958 | Tabs | Tutorial
Richie Valens transformed this Mexican folk song, “La Bamba,” into a rock and roll hit. Played in G major, the intro riff is a fantastic finger exercise. It’s upbeat, fun, and a great way to explore a different cultural influence in rock music.
e|-------|-------------|-------------------|
B|-------|-*-----------|-----------------*-|
G|-------|-------0---2-|-0-----------------|
D|-------|-----2---3---|-------0-3-3-2-0---|
A|---0-2-|-*-3---------|-----2-----------*-|
E|-3-----|-------------|---3---------------|46. Layla – Eric Clapton
Genre: Blues Rock | BPM: 116 | Released: 1970 | Tabs | Tutorial
Eric Clapton’s “Layla” is an iconic rock song with an opening riff considered by some to be the greatest in rock history. While intricate, beginners can definitely start learning sections of this riff. It’s a challenging but incredibly rewarding riff to tackle as you progress.
2x
E|---------------------------------------|
B|---------------------------------------|
G|---------------------------------------|
D|-------0h3p0---0--7s5-3-----5-----7----|
A|---0h3-------3----5s3-1-0---3-0---5----|
E|--------------------------3-----3------|47. Le Freak – Chic & Nile Rodgers
Genre: Funk | BPM: 119 | Released: 1978 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Le Freak” by Chic, with Nile Rodgers’ signature funk guitar, might be the most technically demanding riff on this list. However, it’s an invaluable exercise in right-hand strumming and muting – crucial techniques for funk guitar. Don’t be discouraged if it’s tough at first; stick with it to develop essential funk skills.
Image alt text: Le Freak guitar riff tab for beginner electric guitar players, demonstrating funk guitar technique.
48. Rumble – Link Wray
Genre: Rock | BPM: 94 | Released: 1958 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Rumble” by Link Wray is a piece of rock history – one of the first songs to use heavy distortion. This instrumental track was so radical for its time it was banned from radio! The riff is very simple, making it perfect for beginners to experiment with distortion and raw rock and roll energy.
e|----0--0---0-|
B|----3--3---0-|
G|----2--2---1-|
D|----0--0---2-|
A|-----------2-|
E|-----------0-|49. Secret Agent Man – Johnny Rivers
Genre: Rock and Roll | BPM: 144 | Released: 1966 | Tabs | Tutorial
Johnny Rivers’ “Secret Agent Man” is the quintessential secret agent theme song. Played in Am, the main riff is a staple in spy movies and cartoons. It’s a fun, recognizable riff that’s great for beginners, especially if you want to impress kids (or feel like a secret agent yourself!).
E--------0-------0-------0--|-------0-------0-----0--|
B---------------------------|------------------------|
G--4--------5--------5------|--6-------5-------5-----|
D---------------------------|------------------------|
A---------------------------|------------------------|
E---------------------------|------------------------|50. Start Me Up – The Rolling Stones
Genre: Rock | BPM: 123 | Released: 1981 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Start Me Up” by The Rolling Stones is a classic riff played in open G tuning. While alternate tunings might seem daunting, this song is surprisingly easy, using just two chord shapes throughout the intro. It’s a fun and energetic riff, and learning it introduces you to the world of alternate tunings.
D|---5--5--5--|--5--5--5--|-5--5--5-----|-----------------------------5--5-5-5-|
B|---5--6--6--|--5--6--6--|-5--6--6-----|--0h3---4-3--3--3-4-x-3-4----5--5-6-6-|
G|---5--5--5--|--5--5--5--|-5--5--5-----|--0h3-3-3-3--3--3-3-x-3-3----5--5-5-5-|
D|---5--7--7--|--5--7--7--|-5--7--7-----|--0h3-3-5-3--3--3-5-x-3-5----5--5-7-7-|
G|---5--5--5--|--5--5--5--|-5--5--5-----|--0h3-3-3-3--3--3-3-x-3-3----5--5-5-5-|
D|------------|-----------|-------------|--------------------------------------|51. Summertime Blues – Eddie Cochran
Genre: Rock and Roll | BPM: 157 | Released: 1958 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Summertime Blues” by Eddie Cochran is a rock and roll classic with a riff you’ll instantly recognize once you hear it. Played in the key of E, it’s a true oldie but goodie and a fun, energetic riff for beginners to learn.
Image alt text: Summertime Blues guitar riff tab, easy electric guitar riff for beginners in rock and roll style.
52. So What – Miles Davis
Genre: Jazz | BPM: 136 | Released: 1959 | Tabs | Tutorial
Venturing into jazz? “So What” by Miles Davis is a surprisingly accessible entry point. While originally without guitar, it translates beautifully to the instrument. The signature riff is in D minor 7, then modulates to Ebm7, introducing you to jazz harmonies in a straightforward way.
Image alt text: So What Miles Davis guitar tabs for beginner jazz electric guitar riff learning, showing jazz guitar chords.
53. Twist and Shout – The Beatles
Genre: Rock | BPM: 124 | Released: 1963 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Twist and Shout” by The Beatles features an intro riff that defined a generation. It involves a lead-in to a D chord, then transitions to G and A chords. It’s a fantastic riff for beginners to practice chord changes and develop smooth transitions between chords.
E|------------------||--------2--------------------3--3--3--3------------|||
B|------------------||--------3--------------2-----2--2--2--2------------|||
G|------------------||o-------2--------------2-----2--2--2--2-----------o|||
D|------------------||o-0-----------0--0-----2-----2--2--2--2-----------o|||
A|-------0--2--4----||--------------2--2-----0-----0--0--0--0--0--2--4---|||
E|------------------||--------------3--3---------------------------------|||54. Wish You Were Here – Pink Floyd
Genre: Rock | BPM: 61 | Released: 1975 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd features a series of connected riffs that are more like a melodic progression. The intro is a bit longer, so practicing it in sections and then piecing it together is a good approach. It’s a beautiful and iconic piece, perfect for beginner fingerstyle practice on electric guitar.
e|---------------------3---------------------3-| x2
B|---------------------3---------------------3-|
G|---------------------0---------0-----------0-|
D|-------------0--2----2------2-----2--0-----0-|
A|------0h2------------2---------------------2-|
E|---3-----------------x---------------------3-|55. Secret Agent Man – Johnny Rivers (Again!)
Yes, “Secret Agent Man” is so cool, it deserves another shoutout! Its catchy and relatively simple riff makes it a winner for beginners across different ‘fun riffs’ categories.
56. Sweet Child O’ Mine – Guns N’ Roses
Genre: Hard Rock | BPM: 125 | Released: 1987 | Tabs | Tutorial
Slash created the iconic opening riff of “Sweet Child O’ Mine” as a string-skipping exercise! While it might seem advanced, breaking it down makes it approachable for determined beginners. It’s a legendary riff that’s worth the effort to learn, and it’s an excellent exercise in string skipping and melodic phrasing.
eb|--------------15----14-----|--------------15----14-----|
Bb|-----15--------------------|-----15--------------------|
Gb|--------14-12----14----14--|--------14-12----14----14--|
Db|--12-----------------------|--12-----------------------|
Ab|---------------------------|---------------------------|
Eb|---------------------------|---------------------------|57. Walk This Way – Aerosmith
Genre: Rock | BPM: 108 | Released: 1975 | Tabs | Tutorial
“Walk This Way” by Aerosmith is a song so good it was a hit twice! It features two famous riffs. The first riff is quite easy, while the second is more challenging and requires finger stretches. Learning both provides a great progression for beginner guitarists, from simpler to slightly more complex riff playing.
1st riff
e|----------------------|----------------------------|
B|----------------------|----------------------------|
G|----------------------|----------------------------|
D|-------2-------2------|-------2-------2------2-----|
A|-0-1-2---0-1-2--------|-0-1-2---0-1-2--------------|
E|-----------------0--x-|------------------3p0-------|58. Secret Agent Man – Johnny Rivers (Yet Again!)
Seriously, “Secret Agent Man” is just that beginner-friendly and fun! It’s a riff that keeps on giving, and perfect to revisit as you improve.
Level Up Your Guitar Skills with Riffs
And there you have it – over 50 electric guitar riffs to get you started on your riff-playing journey!
Remember, learning riffs is an incredibly effective and enjoyable way to practice fundamental guitar techniques. You’ll be developing your rhythm, timing, finger dexterity, and chord transitions, all while playing music you love.
So, pick a riff that excites you, grab your electric guitar, check out the tabs and tutorials, and start playing! Don’t be afraid to start slow and gradually build up speed. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process of learning these iconic electric guitar riffs.
Ready to take your guitar journey further? Explore more easy songs and beginner-friendly resources right here at guitarplayers.net! Happy riffing!
