3 Instrumental Rock Songs That Became Hits

Lyrics and vocals are, of course, an integral part of music. As a matter of fact, some artists have made it big by being a mediocre musician and a masterful lyricist. On the other hand, some artists have done the exact opposite. That being said, when it comes to certain types of music, including rock ‘n’ roll, lyrics are not needed in the slightest, as the driving factor behind the song is the music. So, some musicians went without them, and consequently, they created iconic instrumental tracks.

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With that in mind, do you have a friend who couldn’t care less about lyrics and vocals in music? Well, if you do, then keep reading, because this article just might give you something to offer them. Here are three rock songs that don’t contain a single lyric or a note of vocals.

“Albatross” by Fleetwood Mac

Fleetwood Mac typically served their fans fairly familiar flavors. However, before Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham joined the band, they dished out plates that were far more experimental, and they did that with their instrumental track, “Albatross”. The track sounds nothing like the Fleetwood Mac we are all familiar with. Regardless, folks in the United Kingdom took quite a liking to the instrumental single.

Released in 1968, Fleetwood Mac’s melodic instrumental peaked at No. 1 on the UK Singles chart in January of 1969. Composed by former band member, Peter Green, it is the only track of Fleetwood Mac’s to peak at No. 1 in the UK.

“Green Onions” by Booker T. & the MG’s

In terms of chart success, “Green Onions” by Booker T. & the MG’s is one of the most successful instrumental tracks of all time. Furthermore, it is also one of the most recognizable, as it has been used in countless films, including The Sandlot, Happy Gilmore, and American Graffiti.

Upon its release in 1962, the song peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and at No. 1 on the Billboard R&B Singles chart. You may not know the song by the title, but the minute you press play, you will know exactly what this tune is.

“Frankenstein” by The Edgar Winter Group

There is truly one phrase that describes the Edgar Winter Group’s 1972 instrumental single best: “controlled chaos.” It is an absolutely uncanny track that takes over the mind of the listener, and that is why it took over the country following its release.

Following its release, “Frankenstein” peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. It only remained at the top spot for a week. However, its performance is highly impressive given the kind of song that it is. Most likely, a song of this nature will never grace the top spot on the chart ever again, as it is seemingly just too “weird” for modern audiences.

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