What is a guitar Riff?
A "riff" generally refers to a melodic & rhythmic pattern, often short and catchy, in the range of three to five notes.
People use the term "riff" differently. However, it generally refers a pattern played on the guitar that is rhythmic, but not necessarily a chord progression. It typically does not refer to a guitar solo, which are usually called "licks." A good example of a riff is the beginning of Angus Young's guitar track on "Back in Black" by AC/DC.
A lot of people and guitar players understand the term "riff" differently, so here's my disclaimer: This is my understanding and interpretation of a subjective term. Others might have a different take, which is fine.
That said, we can get to a general consensus of the term and come up with a definition that is easy to understand and put into practice.
Let's give it a try.
Instead of re-wording the definition I outlined in the opening box, here are some of the properties I'd expect a riff to have:
- Fairly short and catchy
- Rhythmic
- Melodic
- Creates or follows a chord progression
- Usually around three to five notes
- Usually played on the lower register (lower frets)
You might be able to think of a riff as a cross between a guitar solo and chord progression.
- It's rhythmic, but not a chord progression.
- It's melodic, but not a guitar solo.
Get a FREE Guitar Tricks membership that lasts 14 days and try it out. If it's not for you, just cancel. Your membership is also backed by a 60-day money-back guarantee.
11,000+ lessons, 1000+ song tutorials with tabs, works on all devices.
Guitar Tricks is a trusted partner that we use and recommend. If you click through our orange buttons and sign up for a membership, or even a free trial, we might receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks to everyone for supporting us over the years! - Bobby and Danielle
Our disclosure↬
What about a guitar lick?
The term "lick" is generally used to refer to a solo or lead line of notes, often on the higher register and with more notes than a riff. Again, the waters between these two terms can get muddy, depending on who you ask, but a lick is generally not the same as a riff.
Isn't a riff just a bass line?
A riff will usually follow a bass line, but it's a separate entity from the bass line itself. Now a chord progression, on the other hand, is going to be much closer to a mirror of the bassline than a riff typically is.
Depending on the style of music, a riff might line up with a bass line, a chord progression, or both.
But generally, a riff will be more nuanced than a bass line.
Examples of guitar riffs
Here are a few examples of what I would consider guitar riffs. They're closer to chord progressions than solos, but don't quite fit the profile of either one.
Audioslave's "Show Me How to Live" by Tom Morello
Timestamped to begin at 40 seconds.
Disturbed's "Vengeful One" by Dan Donegan
Timestamped to begin at 16 seconds.
AC/DC's "Back in Black" by Angus Young
Timestamped to begin at 6 seconds.
Are riffs always pretty simple and/or short?
In most cases, riffs are short - only a few notes. It's often the timing and rhythm of those notes that adds completely. But overall, there's a wide range of complexity and number of notes that can make up a riff.
When the number of notes get too high, it could go from being a riff to being better described as a lick, as I mentioned earlier.
It just depends on the context.
Conclusion
Remember, the term riff is open to some interpretation. Some even consider a lick to be a type of riff, so it gets confusing.
This is my take, so if you disagree, you're welcome to share your two cents (or more) in the comments section below.
We'll see you there.
If not, thanks for hanging out.
Related Articles
Written by Leigh Fuge on Lessons & Roundups
Written by Bobby Kittleberger on Lessons & Roundups
Comment Policy: You're down to leave a comment? That's awesome. Keep in mind that comments are moderated and rel="nofollow" is in use. Please avoid any spammy keywords or a domain as your name, otherwise your comment will be deleted. Let's stay on topic, keep questions relevant and have a meaningful conversation. All the best.