[Western Music] A Compilation of the Coolest, Most Rocking Guitar Riffs [2025]

Do I Wanna Know?Arctic Monkeys

Arctic Monkeys – Do I Wanna Know? (Live)

Since its 2013 release, Arctic Monkeys’ “Do I Wanna Know?” has echoed through the rock scene with a thunderous guitar riff.

That profound riff is more than just strummed chords—it carries a commanding presence, showcasing lead guitarist Jamie Cook’s precise playing.

No matter how many times you hear it, the riff retains a mysterious allure, hitting perfectly during late-night hours.

Frontman Alex Turner’s lyrics portray single-minded infatuation in a uniquely expressive way, capturing listeners’ hearts.

The live response is tremendous—crowds nod in unison to the riff.

It’s a song that epitomizes Western rock at its core and will surely inspire future generations of aspiring guitarists.

ZITTI E BUONIMåneskin

Måneskin – ZITTI E BUONI (Official Video – Sanremo & EUROVISION 2021 Winners)

ZITTI E BUONI, with its strikingly cool guitar riff, is a track by the young Italian rock band Måneskin that captivates fans with its energetic sound.

The intro riff in particular, while simple, features a gritty overdriven guitar tone that also feels like an homage to ’80s hard rock.

After they won both the Sanremo Music Festival and the Eurovision Song Contest in 2021, and the song was featured in a UCC BLACK unsweetened coffee commercial, many people have probably heard it by now.

Rock lovers, of course, and even those who haven’t yet discovered Måneskin’s appeal—take this chance to give their music a listen!

BurnDeep Purple

Deep Purple-Burn

Deep Purple, a five-piece rock band known as a quintessential hard rock act and inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2016.

Their single “Burn,” which is also the title track of their 8th album, is a major hit packed with highlights throughout the song—from the groove-laden drumming to the beautiful keyboard solo.

The thrilling guitar riff heard in the intro and interludes has electrified many fans, standing shoulder to shoulder with the twin-vocal melodies as one of the band’s most iconic phrases.

It’s a track that boasts a riff worthy of being called the epitome of hard rock—one for the history books.

Immigrant SongLed Zeppelin

Immigrant Song (Remaster)

Led Zeppelin, the legendary rock band from the UK, is also known as a pioneer of genres like hard rock and metal.

“Immigrant Song,” included on their third album, Led Zeppelin III, is frequently used in a variety of contexts in Japan, including on variety shows.

Its impactful introductory guitar riff and the layered choral work make the Japanese title, “Imin no Uta” (“Immigrant Song”), feel perfectly fitting.

It’s a striking rock tune whose lyrics—rooted in Irish history and Norse mythology—are well worth paying attention to.

G.O.A.T.Polyphia

Polyphia | G.O.A.T. (Official Music Video)

One of the most popular instrumental bands today, Polyphia’s “G.

O.

A.

T.” can be called an innovative masterpiece that blew a hole in the rock scene.

Since forming in Texas in 2010, they’ve been crafting a progressive sound that transcends the bounds of metal.

This track is no exception, featuring hybrid guitar riffs that stand apart from the conventional.

Beyond the sheer technical prowess of the riffs, there’s a striking beauty in the melodies.

Listening to this technically demanding piece will inspire many guitar players and music fans to set new goals.

Walk This WayAerosmith

Aerosmith – Walk This Way (Audio)

Once you hit the play button again, your body just won’t stop moving—this is a pinnacle of hard rock: Aerosmith’s “Walk This Way.” The rhythmic guitar phrase is so catchy and powerful it keeps looping in your head.

That punch definitely comes from the unison, with the bass and guitar playing the same line.

Playfully grooving, this track is guaranteed to send your energy through the roof every time you hear it.

This guitar riff is the very definition of how a riff should be—an absolute classic!

Killing In the NameRage Against The Machine

Rage Against The Machine – Killing In the Name (Official HD Video)

One of Rage Against the Machine’s signature songs, “Killing in the Name,” became instantly famous for its simple yet strikingly memorable guitar riff.

Tom Morello, known as a guitarist who introduced an innovative style, employs a uniquely original technique that goes beyond the bounds of a typical rock guitarist—his playing is truly revolutionary, shaking the hearts of listeners.

Many guitarists have been influenced by the heavy sound created with drop-D tuning and by the rhythm-driven riff that somehow exudes a supple groove.

Be sure to check out the astonishing guitar solo as well, showcasing playing so unexpected that an ordinary person would never think of it.