Learning electric guitar can be an incredibly rewarding journey, filled with countless iconic riffs and solos waiting to be mastered. While every guitarist has their own path, there are certain songs that stand out as perfect stepping stones for aspiring shredders. These songs, born from the minds of rock legends like Nirvana and Guns N' Roses, represent the very essence of electrifying guitar work, capturing the hearts of generations with their raw energy and timeless appeal. From the furious energy of a certain grunge anthem to the blues-infused swagger of a certain Californian classic, this list offers a taste of rock's most enduring moments, each one a testament to the transformative power of the electric guitar. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or just starting out, these tracks will challenge and inspire you, pushing you to explore the full potential of your instrument.
| Song | Artist | Album | Release | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Smells Like Teen Spirit | Nirvana | Nevermind (Remastered) | 1991 | 2B+ |
| 2. Sweet Child O' Mine | Guns N' Roses | Appetite For Destruction | 1987 | 2B+ |
| 3. Back In Black | AC/DC | Back In Black | 1980 | 1B+ |
| 4. Eye of the Tiger | Survivor | Working Class Dog | 1982 | 1B+ |
| 5. Otherside | Red Hot Chili Peppers | Californication (Deluxe Edition) | 1999 | 786M+ |
| 6. Enter Sandman | Metallica | Metallica (Remastered) | 1991 | 668M+ |
| 7. Seven Nation Army | The White Stripes | Elephant | 2003 | 664M+ |
1. Smells Like Teen Spirit (Nirvana - 1970)
Here we are now, entertain us ”
Song information
| ArtistNirvana | Release1991 |
| Time04:39 | View2B+ |
| Likes 14M+ | SuitableEmo |
| AlbumNevermind (Remastered)Listen on Spotify | |
- Alternative rock
- Nirvana
- Punk Rock
- Grunge Rock
"Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana has a timeless quality that resonates across generations. Its raw energy and rebellious spirit continue to draw in listeners, making it a staple in the rock music landscape. For guitarists looking to expand their repertoire, "Smells Like Teen Spirit" offers a challenging yet rewarding experience.
This track is best suited for intermediate guitarists. It features a distinctive power chord riff that serves as the song's foundation, requiring a solid understanding of basic chords and rhythm. The iconic guitar solo, while brief, introduces elements of lead guitar techniques such as bending and vibrato. Learning this song will strengthen your understanding of power chords, develop your rhythm skills, and give you a taste of lead guitar techniques. Moreover, "Smells Like Teen Spirit" is a classic rock anthem, a staple for any aspiring guitarist, and a piece that will surely impress your peers.
2. Sweet Child O' Mine (Appetite For Destruction - 1970)
Reminds me of childhood memories ”
Song information
| ArtistGuns N' Roses | Release1987 |
| Time05:03 | View2B+ |
| Likes 8M+ | SuitableJóvenes |
| AlbumAppetite For DestructionListen on Spotify | |
- Love song
- Love Ballad
- Rock Anthem
- Classic Ballad
- Guns N' Roses
"Sweet Child o' Mine" by Guns N' Roses is an iconic rock anthem that is a great choice for intermediate electric guitarists. It's a classic rock song with a simple but effective structure, making it a rewarding song to learn. While it's not a beginner song, its manageable difficulty makes it a great stepping stone towards more challenging songs.
The song features a famous iconic riff that is a must-learn for any aspiring guitarist. The riff relies on simple but effective chord progressions and picking patterns that are both catchy and challenging. Additionally, the song includes a memorable solo that features a variety of techniques like bending, vibrato, and hammer-ons. Learning the solo will improve your lead guitar skills and give you a taste of Slash's legendary style. By tackling this song, you'll be acquiring foundational skills in rhythm, lead guitar, and improvisation that will benefit your guitar journey.
3. Back In Black (Back In Black - 1970)
I hit the sack ”
Song information
| ArtistAC/DC | Release1980 |
| Time04:14 | View1B+ |
| Likes 6M+ | SuitableRockeros |
| AlbumBack In BlackListen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Hard Rock
- Heavy Metal
- AC/DC
"Back in Black" by AC/DC, a timeless rock anthem, is a perfect choice for intermediate guitarists looking to expand their skills. From the opening riff, instantly recognizable and iconic, to the powerful solo, the song showcases the band's signature sound and is a staple for any rock enthusiast. The song utilizes a range of techniques that are both engaging and valuable for learning. The energetic rhythm section creates a powerful groove, demanding precision in both picking and strumming. The driving riffs are easy to learn but challenging to master, while the solo, despite being relatively straightforward, offers a fantastic opportunity to practice bending and vibrato techniques.
This song's learning value lies in its ability to teach essential rock guitar fundamentals. It provides a solid foundation in rhythm, lead, and soloing techniques. The song's enduring popularity and its historical significance make it a truly rewarding experience to learn and play. Whether it's the raw power of the riffs, the emotional depth of the lyrics, or the sheer energy of the performance, "Back in Black" stands as a testament to AC/DC's enduring legacy in the world of rock and roll.
4. Eye of the Tiger (Working Class Dog - 1970)
It's the thrill of the fight ”
Song information
| ArtistSurvivor | Release1982 |
| Time04:05 | View1B+ |
| Likes 6M+ | SuitableAmantes del rock |
| AlbumWorking Class DogListen on Spotify | |
- Survivor
- Rock clásico
- Himnos deportivos
- Canciones motivadoras
A classic rock anthem that resonates with listeners of all ages, "Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor is a powerful testament to the enduring appeal of guitar-driven music. This song, famously used as the theme for the 1982 film "Rocky III," is a great choice for guitarists looking to hone their skills and delve into the world of classic rock.
While the song is often considered an intermediate-level track, its accessibility makes it suitable for a wide range of players. "Eye of the Tiger" is a masterclass in crafting infectious riffs and memorable melodies, featuring a combination of distinct power chords, iconic single-note runs, and a driving rhythm section that builds a sense of urgency and determination. The iconic opening riff is a staple of many rock anthems and a perfect entry point for learning basic power chord progressions. Beyond the initial riff, the song features a captivating solo section, which provides a platform for exploring melodic phrasing and guitar techniques like hammer-ons and pull-offs. Learning this song will not only help you develop your rhythmic and melodic skills but also introduce you to the foundational elements of classic rock guitar.
5. Otherside - Californication (Deluxe Edition)
Separate my side ”
Song information
| ArtistRed Hot Chili Peppers | Release1999 |
| Time04:16 | View786M+ |
| Likes 4M+ | SuitableAmantes del rock |
| AlbumCalifornication (Deluxe Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
- Alternative rock
- Funk Rock
- Rock Ballad
- Rock
- Hard Rock
"Otherside" by the Red Hot Chili Peppers is a solid choice for intermediate guitarists looking to expand their skills. The song features a mix of driving riffs, catchy chords, and a memorable solo, all underpinned by a funky bassline. Learning "Otherside" will help you develop your rhythm playing, your ability to switch between different chord shapes, and your understanding of minor pentatonic scales used in the solo.
Beyond its technical aspects, "Otherside" is a powerful track with a raw emotional core. Its exploration of addiction and the desire for redemption resonates with listeners on a deep level. The combination of its technical challenge and its emotional depth makes "Otherside" a rewarding song to learn, providing a satisfying experience for both your musical and emotional growth.
6. Enter Sandman - Metallica (Remastered)
Enter night ”
Song information
| ArtistMetallica | Release1991 |
| Time05:31 | View668M+ |
| Likes 3M+ | SuitableMetalheads |
| AlbumMetallica (Remastered)Listen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Hard Rock
- Heavy Metal
- Thrash Metal
- Metallica
Have you ever heard a song that instantly transports you to a specific time and place? Metallica's "Enter Sandman" is a powerful example, capable of conjuring up images of roaring crowds and electrifying stage lights. This iconic heavy metal anthem is a great choice for intermediate guitarists seeking a challenging yet rewarding learning experience.
The song's main riff, a driving, chugging sequence of power chords, is instantly recognizable and establishes a foundation for the song's aggressive energy. This riff, along with the iconic "sands of time" intro, will help you develop your finger dexterity and rhythm skills. Additionally, "Enter Sandman" showcases a variety of other techniques, including palm muting, tremolo picking, and even a brief but intense solo. Mastering these techniques will bolster your overall guitar playing proficiency. You'll find yourself honing your timing, precision, and coordination, all while rocking out to one of the most influential metal anthems of all time.
7. Seven Nation Army (The White Stripes)
A seven nation army couldn't hold me back ”
Song information
| ArtistThe White Stripes | Release2003 |
| Time03:59 | View664M+ |
| Likes 5M+ | SuitableRock Fans |
| AlbumElephantListen on Spotify | |
- Alternative rock
- Blues Rock
- Garage Rock
- The White Stripes
While many guitarists might gravitate towards the intricate solos of Eddie Van Halen or the bluesy licks of Jimi Hendrix, 'Seven Nation Army' by The White Stripes stands out as a powerful anthem that's surprisingly accessible for learners of all skill levels. This song, despite its seemingly simple structure, holds a wealth of learning value.
Categorized as an intermediate-level song, 'Seven Nation Army' primarily focuses on the iconic riff, a repetitive yet captivating pattern that uses open strings and power chords. The song utilizes a distinct "pitch-shifting" effect, which lends a unique sonic quality that you can explore further. While learning this song, you'll gain valuable experience in rhythm guitar, developing a steady, consistent strumming technique. Moreover, the use of power chords will introduce you to a fundamental building block of modern rock music. The song's widespread popularity and instantly recognizable riff make it a rewarding choice for any guitarist looking to expand their repertoire and become familiar with a classic rock staple.
8. Highway to Hell
Season ticket on a one-way ride ”
Song information
| ArtistAC/DC | Release1979 |
| Time03:28 | View352M+ |
| Likes 2M+ | SuitableRock Fans |
| AlbumHighway to HellListen on Spotify | |
- Rock
- Classic rock
- Hard Rock
- Heavy Metal
- AC/DC
"Highway to Hell" by AC/DC is a classic rock anthem and a great choice for intermediate guitarists looking to learn a powerful and iconic riff. The song features a driving, repetitive rhythm guitar part that forms the foundation of the entire track. It's a great song to learn for its iconic riff, which involves power chords and palm muting. Mastering this riff will strengthen your right-hand technique and help you understand the importance of rhythm in rock music.
The song also includes a memorable lead guitar solo that showcases Angus Young's signature style, featuring fast picking, bends, and vibrato. This section is more advanced, but with practice, you'll learn to emulate Young's bluesy and energetic sound. Learning "Highway to Hell" will not only improve your guitar skills but also provide you with a classic rock track to add to your repertoire. Its energy and raw power will make it a surefire crowd-pleaser, whether you're playing at a party or jamming with friends.
9. Paranoid
People think I'm insane because I am frowning all the time ”
Song information
| ArtistBlack Sabbath | Release1970 |
| Time02:52 | View276M+ |
| Likes 2M+ | SuitableMetalheads |
| AlbumParanoid (Remaster)Listen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Hard Rock
- Heavy Metal
- Black Sabbath
"Paranoid" the title track from Black Sabbath's iconic 1970 album of the same name, is a classic heavy metal anthem that has stood the test of time. Its driving rhythm and Tony Iommi's signature distorted guitar riffs create a sound that is both powerful and menacing.
For aspiring guitarists, "Paranoid" is an excellent choice for an intermediate-level song. The song features a relatively straightforward riff that is repeated throughout, but it also includes a memorable guitar solo that requires a bit more technical proficiency. Learning "Paranoid" will not only expose you to a classic heavy metal sound but also enhance your skills in picking techniques, power chords, and even basic soloing techniques. Beyond its technical merit, "Paranoid" is a timeless piece that showcases the raw energy and intensity that made Black Sabbath one of the most influential bands of all time.
10. Whole Lotta Love (1969)
I'm gonna send you back to schoolin' ”
Song information
| ArtistLed Zeppelin | Release1969 |
| Time04:49 | View221M+ |
| Likes 1M+ | SuitableRock Fans |
| AlbumLed Zeppelin II (1994 Remaster)Listen on Spotify | |
- Rock Anthem
- Classic rock
- Hard Rock
- Blues Rock
- Led Zeppelin
If you haven't yet experienced the raw power of 'Whole Lotta Love' by Led Zeppelin, now is the perfect time to dive into this iconic rock anthem. It's a song that has captivated audiences for decades, and for good reason.
'Whole Lotta Love' is considered an intermediate-level song for guitarists. It demands a firm grasp of blues-based riffs, powerful chord progressions, and a distinctive, bluesy solo that's both challenging and rewarding to learn. This song is a masterclass in classic rock guitar techniques. The driving riff is iconic, and the use of bending notes and vibrato in the solo adds a touch of bluesy swagger. Beyond the technical aspects, 'Whole Lotta Love' is an excellent choice for aspiring guitarists because it teaches you to create a powerful and emotional sound. This song's influence can be heard throughout the history of rock, making it a must-learn for anyone serious about the genre.
11. Satisfaction (The Rolling Stones)
I can't get no satisfaction ”
Song information
| ArtistThe Rolling Stones | Release1965 |
| Time03:55 | View167M+ |
| Likes 1M+ | SuitableRock Fans |
| AlbumOut Of Our HeadsListen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Rock and Roll
- Hard Rock
- Blues Rock
- The Rolling Stones
"Satisfaction" by The Rolling Stones is a classic rock anthem that stands as a great choice for intermediate-level guitarists. Its iconic opening riff, played on a distorted electric guitar, is a staple of rock music and instantly recognizable. Learning this riff not only introduces aspiring guitarists to a foundational rock technique, but it also teaches them the importance of precise timing and rhythmic phrasing. The song also includes a memorable, bluesy solo that incorporates bending, vibrato, and other expressive techniques.
While the main riff is relatively simple to learn, the song's full arrangement demands a good grasp of rhythm and strumming patterns. The song's popularity and enduring appeal make it a rewarding song to learn, solidifying your mastery of a key rock guitar technique and giving you a chance to explore the powerful dynamics of a classic rock track.
12. When I Come Around (Green Day)
All the way across town ”
Song information
| ArtistGreen Day | Release1994 |
| Time03:00 | View130M+ |
| Likes 693K+ | SuitableTeenagers |
| AlbumDookieListen on Spotify | |
- Alternative rock
- Punk Rock
- Pop Punk
- Green Day
Released in 1995 as part of Green Day's iconic album 'Dookie', 'When I Come Around' remains a cornerstone of 90s rock and a great choice for aspiring guitarists looking to expand their skills. This song, a classic rock anthem, is considered intermediate in difficulty, offering a balanced blend of challenging riffs and memorable chord progressions.
The song's structure features several key techniques, including power chords, palm muting, and a catchy guitar solo. Learning these techniques will solidify your understanding of rhythm, dynamics, and melody, ultimately enhancing your overall guitar playing. "When I Come Around" also serves as a great foundation for learning to navigate a song's structure, with its distinct verse, chorus, and bridge sections. This song's timeless appeal, combined with its well-structured format, makes it a worthwhile addition to any guitarist's repertoire.
13. Johnny B. Goode (Berry Is On Top)
Way back up in the woods among the evergreens ”
Song information
| ArtistChuck Berry | Release1958 |
| Time02:43 | View101M+ |
| Likes 1M+ | SuitableAdolescentes |
| AlbumBerry Is On TopListen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Rock and Roll
- Chuck Berry
- Guitar Solo
'Johnny B. Goode' by Chuck Berry is a classic rock and roll anthem that offers a rewarding experience for intermediate electric guitarists. While the song is relatively simple in terms of chord progressions, it features signature Chuck Berry riffs that require precision and a good understanding of picking patterns. The song's iconic opening riff, with its distinctive "duck walk" rhythm, is a staple of rock guitar technique and provides an excellent opportunity to develop finger dexterity and timing.
Learning 'Johnny B. Goode' not only gives you the chance to play a legendary piece of rock history but also reinforces fundamental guitar skills like rhythm, picking, and vibrato. The song's energetic tempo and catchy melody make it a joy to play, and the feeling of mastering its iconic riffs is deeply satisfying. Beyond its technical merits, 'Johnny B. Goode' holds a special place in music history, representing the birth of rock and roll and its enduring influence on generations of musicians.
14. Sweet Home Alabama (1974)
Well, I heard ol' Neil put her down ”
Song information
| ArtistLynyrd Skynyrd | Release1974 |
| Time04:44 | View79M+ |
| Likes 537K+ | SuitableOlder Adults |
| AlbumSecond Helping (Expanded Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
- Nostalgia
- Anthem
- Classic rock
- Country Rock
- Blues Rock
The iconic opening riff of "Sweet Home Alabama" by Lynyrd Skynyrd instantly transports listeners to a time of classic rock anthems and roaring guitars. This southern rock masterpiece, while not actually about Alabama, is a testament to the band's musical prowess and their ability to create a timeless sound that resonates with generations.
For aspiring guitarists, "Sweet Home Alabama" presents an excellent opportunity to learn foundational techniques. It's considered an intermediate-level song, featuring a mix of power chords, open chords, and a memorable, bluesy solo. Learning the song's iconic riff will develop finger dexterity and rhythm, while mastering the solo provides a rewarding challenge for those looking to improve their lead guitar skills. The combination of catchy melodies and driving rhythms makes "Sweet Home Alabama" a classic choice for guitarists seeking a song that's both fun to play and musically enriching.
15. Rock You Like A Hurricane (Love At First Sting)
Rock you like a hurricane ”
Song information
| ArtistScorpions | Release1984 |
| Time04:13 | View56M+ |
| Likes 447K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumLove At First StingListen on Spotify | |
In the realm of electrifying rock anthems, "Rock You Like a Hurricane" by the Scorpions stands as a timeless masterpiece. This track, often considered their signature song, has become a staple of classic rock radio and a must-learn for aspiring guitarists.
For those seeking an intermediate-level challenge, "Rock You Like a Hurricane" offers a wealth of rewarding guitar techniques. The song's instantly recognizable opening riff, a fusion of power chords and melodic lines, is a prime example of the signature Scorpions sound. This riff features dynamic picking patterns and emphasizes the use of distortion, which is key to achieving that classic hard rock tone. Beyond the riff, the song showcases impressive solo work, incorporating intricate scales and vibrato techniques, making it a perfect opportunity to develop your lead guitar skills. Learning this iconic track will equip you with the tools and knowledge to tackle other classic rock anthems and refine your guitar playing.
16. Crazy Train - Blizzard Of Ozz (40th Anniversary Expanded Edition)
Millions of people living as foes ”
Song information
| ArtistOzzy Osbourne | Release1980 |
| Time03:47 | View44M+ |
| Likes 673K+ | SuitableAmantes del Rock |
| AlbumBlizzard Of Ozz (40th Anniversary Expanded Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
- Classic rock
- Hard Rock
- Rock n Roll
- Heavy Metal
- Ozzy Osbourne
From the very first notes of "Crazy Train" Ozzy Osbourne's iconic heavy metal anthem, you're instantly transported to a whirlwind of energy and raw power. This song, a staple of the 80s rock scene, is a great choice for intermediate electric guitarists looking to expand their skills and delve into the world of heavy metal.
"Crazy Train" is a perfect example of the classic heavy metal formula: driving riffs, blazing solos, and powerful rhythms. The song's main riff is a relatively simple but effective combination of power chords and single notes, making it a good starting point for learning to play heavy metal. But the real challenge lies in the iconic solo, a showcase of Randy Rhoads's virtuosity, featuring complex bends, vibrato, and fast picking. This song is a masterclass in capturing the essence of heavy metal with its ferocious power and memorable melodies. Learning "Crazy Train" will not only bolster your skills but also introduce you to the exciting world of heavy metal guitar, an essential genre for every guitarist to explore.
17. Sunshine Of Your Love
To be where I'm going ”
Song information
| ArtistCream | Release1967 |
| Time04:06 | View26M+ |
| Likes 255K+ | SuitableN/a |
| AlbumDisraeli Gears (Deluxe Edition)Listen on Spotify | |
Released in 1967, "Sunshine of Your Love" by Cream is a timeless classic that has captivated listeners for decades, earning accolades from Rolling Stone, Q magazine, and VH1, and being included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's list of "500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll." This iconic track, featuring the distinctive bass riff by Jack Bruce and the powerful guitar work of Eric Clapton, is considered an intermediate-level song for aspiring guitarists.
"Sunshine of Your Love" is a fantastic choice for guitarists seeking to develop their skills, as it encompasses a variety of essential techniques. The song's signature riff, featuring a blend of bluesy bends and intricate picking patterns, is a great foundation for learning basic lead guitar skills. Additionally, the song showcases Clapton's signature "wah-wah" guitar sound, providing an opportunity for experimentation with effects pedals. The powerful rhythm section, driven by Ginger Baker's tom-tom drumming, reinforces the song's energetic spirit and encourages the development of rhythmic proficiency. Learning "Sunshine of Your Love" offers a rewarding challenge for intermediate guitarists, offering both technical proficiency and an enduring musical legacy to explore.
18. Purple Haze
Lately things just don't seem the same ”
Song information
| ArtistJimi Hendrix | Release1967 |
| Time02:53 | View22M+ |
| Likes 295K+ | SuitableN/a |
"Purple Haze" by Jimi Hendrix is an iconic track that presents an excellent challenge for intermediate guitarists. This song showcases Hendrix's signature style, featuring a blend of blues and Eastern modalities, expressed through innovative guitar techniques. The signature "Hendrix chord" is a must-learn for any aspiring guitarist, and the song also features challenging riffs and a memorable, soaring solo that will test your fretting and picking skills. Learning "Purple Haze" not only provides a rewarding experience but also builds a strong foundation in blues and rock guitar techniques, making it a valuable addition to any guitarist's repertoire.
As a classic rock anthem that continues to resonate with generations of listeners, "Purple Haze" remains a cornerstone of Jimi Hendrix's legacy. The song's powerful energy and infectious groove make it a joy to play and listen to, ensuring its place as a must-learn for guitarists of all levels.
19. Wild Thing (The Troggs)
You make everything groovy ”
Song information
| ArtistThe Troggs | Release1966 |
| Time02:35 | View9M+ |
| Likes 102K+ | SuitableRock Fans |
- Blues Rock
- Garage Rock
- Proto-Punk
- The Troggs
"Wild Thing" by The Troggs is a timeless rock anthem that explodes with raw energy and a driving rhythm. It's a perfect song for guitarists looking to master the basics of rock guitar, offering a combination of power chords, simple riffs, and a memorable solo that's surprisingly accessible.
This song is considered an intermediate-level track, ideal for guitarists who are comfortable with basic chords and strumming patterns. The main riff is built upon power chords, which are essential for playing rock music. The solo, while iconic, is based on simple pentatonic scales, making it a great opportunity to practice improvisation and soloing techniques. Beyond the technical aspects, "Wild Thing" is a classic for a reason. Its energetic and rebellious spirit resonates with listeners across generations, making it a truly rewarding song to learn and play.
20. Layla - 1970
And nobody's waiting by your side? ”
Listen online
Song information
| ArtistDerek and the Dominos | Release1970 |
| Time07:01 | View8M+ |
| Likes 47K+ | SuitableN/a |
'Layla' by Derek and the Dominos is a classic rock anthem that stands as a testament to Eric Clapton's guitar prowess and songwriting ability. This song, while considered an intermediate-level track, is a must-learn for any aspiring guitarist seeking to elevate their skills. It showcases a variety of techniques, including the iconic opening riff, the bluesy slide guitar in the second half, and the challenging, yet rewarding, solo sections. Learning 'Layla' will provide a foundation in blues-based playing, develop your picking accuracy, and introduce you to the expressive power of slide guitar. Beyond its technical merit, the song's raw emotional depth and captivating melody make it a truly timeless piece of music that continues to resonate with audiences across generations.