Riffs

A riff is a short, repeated musical figure, often melodic or rhythmic, that forms a prominent and recognizable part of a song. Riffs are typically designed to be memorable and to establish the groove or character of a track. They are commonly repeated across sections such as introductions, verses, or choruses and are frequently associated with rock, metal, funk, and pop, though they appear in many genres. Instruments that commonly play riffs include guitar, bass, and keyboard, but any voice or instrument can carry a riff.

A riff differs from a motif or theme in that it is usually a concise, repetitive unit that anchors a portion of the song. It is also distinct from an ostinato, which is a repeating figure that may be less melodic. Riffs can be simple or complex and are often built from standard devices such as power-chord progressions, pentatonic scales, or octave doubling, sometimes incorporating syncopation, palm muting, or other performance techniques to enhance the groove.

Functionally, riffs serve as hooks that help define a song’s identity and memorability. They can drive the rhythm, outline the harmonic framework, or provide a contrasting texture within a section. Notable examples of famous riffs include lines from songs like Smoke on the Water, Back in Black, You Really Got Me, and Sweet Child o’ Mine, among others. While closely associated with guitar, riffs are a broader concept applicable to many instruments and styles.