Top 5 Best Classic Rock Guitar Riffs We Still Crank!
There’s just something about a great guitar riff. It’s the hook that grabs you by the collar, turns the volume up to 11, and dares you not to headbang on the way to Maverik or while tearing down I-15. For Southern Utah classic rock fans—especially those who grew up on the sounds of loud amps and real musicianship—classic rock riffs aren’t just music. They’re memories.
At 95.9 The Hawk, we live for this stuff. So here’s our take on the Top 5 Best Classic Rock Guitar Riffs—the ones that still echo through garage speakers, backyard barbecues, and canyon roads.
1. “Smoke on the Water” – Deep Purple (1972)
If you’ve ever held a guitar, chances are this riff was one of the first you tried. It’s simple, heavy, and instantly recognizable. Richie Blackmore laid down a four-note masterpiece that defined what a rock riff should be. Whether you’re working in the garage or cruising through Snow Canyon, this one still rips.
2. “Sweet Child O’ Mine” – Guns N’ Roses (1987)
Slash’s legendary intro is one of those riffs that stops you in your tracks. It’s melodic, powerful, and packed with emotion. When this track hits the airwaves, you don’t skip it—you crank it. Perfect for long Utah drives or reminiscing about that first concert.
3. “Sunshine of Your Love” – Cream (1967)
Eric Clapton’s riff here is slow, bluesy, and filled with swagger. It’s not flashy—it’s confident. You feel it in your chest as much as you hear it in your ears. Whether you’re sipping something cold on the porch or flipping vinyl in the man cave, this one brings the groove.
4. “Whole Lotta Love” – Led Zeppelin (1969)
Pure, raw Zeppelin. Jimmy Page gave us one of the most powerful, distorted riffs in rock history. It’s got the grit of a Southern Utah dirt trail and the force of a canyon wind. You don’t just listen to this song—you feel it. Bonus points if you’ve ever blasted it with the windows down on a road trip to Moab.
5. “Back in Black” – AC/DC (1980)
This one doesn’t knock—it kicks the door in. Angus Young’s riff is all attitude: bold, relentless, and full of swagger. It’s the anthem of hard work and harder play. From the shop to the smoker, it’s always the right time to hit play on this AC/DC classic.
Whether you’re tuning in from St. George, Cedar City, or anywhere in Soutern Utah, these riffs are part of the soundtrack of our lives. They’re not just music—they’re moments, road trips, and late nights with friends. And here at 95.9 The Hawk, we’re proud to keep them alive and loud.
What’s your all-time favorite classic rock riff? Hit us up and let us know—we might just feature it next!