The wah pedal: a simple device, yet capable of transforming a guitar riff from mundane to mesmerizing. It's a sound synonymous with rock's most iconic moments, shaping the sonic landscape of countless legendary tracks. This list isn't just about celebrating a specific artist or band; it's about celebrating the wah's enduring power to add texture, emotion, and pure, unadulterated swagger to music. From the soaring, melancholic guitar solos that define some of rock's most emotionally resonant anthems to the crunchy, powerful rhythms that drive stadium-shaking anthems, the wah pedal’s unique contribution is undeniable. We've compiled a collection of tracks demonstrating the versatility and timeless appeal of this effect, highlighting how its use has helped shape some of the greatest songs ever written.
This curated selection spans decades and genres, showcasing the wah's versatility. You'll hear how it can be used to create both delicate, expressive melodies and aggressive, distorted textures. These songs represent a testament to the enduring power of innovative sound design, a power that continues to inspire musicians today. Whether you're a seasoned rock aficionado or a curious newcomer, prepare to rediscover the electrifying potential of the wah pedal and the songs that made it a legend. Prepare to be swept away by the raw energy and undeniable skill on display – it's a sonic journey you won't want to miss.
1November Rain
Guns N' Roses
1991
Use Your Illusion I
2Bohemian Rhapsody
Queen
1975
A Night At The Opera (Deluxe Remastered Version)
3Sweet Child O' Mine
Guns N' Roses
1987
Appetite For Destruction
4Back In Black
AC/DC
1980
Back In Black
5Enter Sandman
Metallica
1991
Metallica (Remastered)
6Hotel California
The Eagles
1976
7Comfortably Numb
Pink Floyd
1979
The Wall
8Be Yourself
Audioslave
2005
Out of Exile
9Dream On
Aerosmith
1973
Aerosmith
10Stairway to Heaven
Led Zeppelin
1971
Led Zeppelin IV (Deluxe Edition)
11Stir It Up
Bob Marley
1973
12Bulls On Parade
Rage Against The Machine
1996
Evil Empire
13Sweet Home Alabama
Lynyrd Skynyrd
1974
Second Helping (Expanded Edition)
14Eleanor Rigby
The Beatles
1966
Revolver (Remastered)
15White Room
Cream
1968
16Voodoo Child
Jimi Hendrix
1968
Electric Ladyland
17Hey Joe
Jimi Hendrix
1966
Are You Experienced
18Free Bird
Lynyrd Skynyrd
1973
Pronounced' Leh-'Nerd 'Skin-'Nerd
19Sunshine Of Your Love
Cream
1967
Disraeli Gears (Deluxe Edition)
20Purple Haze
Jimi Hendrix
1967
21While My Guitar Gently Weeps
George Harrison
1968
22Brown Sugar
The Rolling Stones
1971
Sticky Fingers (Remastered)
23Bad Horsie
Steve Vai
1986
24Layla
Derek and the Dominos
1970
25Smoke On The Water
Deep Purple
1972
Machine Head
26Surfing with the Alien
Joe Satriani
1987
Surfing With The Alien
27The Wind Cries Mary
Jimi Hendrix
1967
Are You Experienced
28Little Wing
Jimi Hendrix
1967
29Black Magic Woman
Fleetwood Mac
1968
30I'm Free
The Rolling Stones
1965