4 of the Most Iconic Guitar Riffs of the 1970s

Powerful guitar riffs were the defining sound of the 1970s. From rock and roll to blues, shredding guitar tracks were such an important element in hits from that era. Many of those iconic solos are still loved today, too. Let’s look at just four of the most iconic guitar riffs of the 1970s!

1. “Stairway To Heaven” by Led Zeppelin

Would this even be a list of iconic guitar riffs from the 1970s without including “Stairway To Heaven” by Led Zeppelin? We don’t think so. The song as a whole is an epic one, and it wouldn’t be too crazy to say that this song is the defining rock hit of the 1970s as a whole. The guitar solo in this song is quite long, but it’s the arpeggio at the very beginning that is particularly memorable. Haunting, to say the least. Jimmy Page is a genius.

2. “Smoke On The Water” by Deep Purple

Some fans of Deep Purple would say that the guitar riffs in the 1970s classic “Smoke On The Water” are among the best of the band’s discography. Others would argue that it’s the best example of killer guitar riffs, period. Either way, this song is nothing short of memorable. And it’s a pretty simple four-line riff that even younger fans would be able to recognize in an instant. There’s a reason why even the newest generation of guitarists learn those four lines shortly after picking up the instrument. Simple, yet powerful. They don’t write ‘em like this anymore.

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3. “Mississippi Queen” by Mountain

This list wouldn’t be complete without a little bit of 1970s blues rock. “Mississippi Queen” was a huge hit for Mountain back in 1970, and for good reason. This song hit hard and became quite the blues rock anthem at the time. Even if you’re not a huge blues rock fan, you can probably recognize the opening guitar riff to this track. It’s catchy and energetic, and Leslie West’s talents are on full display.

4. “Born On The Bayou” by Credence Clearwater Revival

Creedence Clearwater Revival fits the bill for a number of genres, and some wouldn’t necessarily consider them a blues rock band. That being said, “Born On The Bayou” is undeniably a blues rock song, especially when it comes to the guitar riffs. They’re gritty and memorable, and set the tone for the rest of the song perfectly.

Photo by Ian Dickson/Shutterstock

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