5 of the most emotional riffs in music history, pt. 1

Music has an unmatched ability to convey emotions, and few elements do this as effectively as a well-crafted riff. While many associate riffs with technicality or virtuosity, the most memorable ones often strike the heart, creating a visceral connection with the listener. Here, we explore some of the most emotionally charged riffs in history, including the unforgettable opening to "Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me" by The Smiths.

1. "Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me" – The Smiths (1987)

Few riffs in music history encapsulate longing and despair like the haunting introduction to this track. This song opens with a brooding melancholic riff that could make hearts swell, and which builds for almost 2 minutes. However, that's not even the moment we're talking about!

No, the riff in question starts when Johnny Marr’s shimmering guitar takes over at around 1:55 minutes in (in the recording above), and the rather mysterious riff feels like a lament. Its simplicity is its strength, creating a dreamy, wistful atmosphere that perfectly complements Morrissey’s anguished lyrics. The song becomes an anthem for unfulfilled yearning, and the riff remains central to its emotional power.

Pink Floyd and emotional guitar go hand in hand

2. "Wish You Were Here" – Pink Floyd (1975)

The iconic guitar work by David Gilmour in "Wish You Were Here" is relatively simple yet technically brilliant in execution — it’s profoundly emotional. The intro riff and subsequent lead figures and solos seem to channel a deep existential mood of joy mixed with sorrow, resonating with anyone who has felt isolated or disconnected, yet yearning for joy.

The interplay of soft, pleading acoustic guitars and minimalistic yet soaring notes (blended with uncharacteristic scat singing) gives the song its timeless emotional weight.

Gilmour proves you don't need to shred on guitar to have great moments. In fact, he's admitted that he actually isn't very good at playing fast! Still, how many people would say he is not one of the greats? Not even the troll-iest of trolls would claim he hasn't made his impact. Sure, Pink Floyd ended rather badly, with the bitterest of politicall-tinged feuds...but this song alone makes it all seem worth it.

Not even plagiarism allegations keep this Led Zeppelin classic off the list!

3. "Stairway to Heaven" – Led Zeppelin (1971)

For most rock fans, it would be impossible to discuss emotional riffs without at some point mentioning "Stairway to Heaven." Jimmy Page’s fingerpicked introduction feels like a journey through introspection, and it feels like an expansive riff and corresponding lead guitar lines performed simultaneously. The gradual build-up from the delicate opening riff to the climactic solo mirrors the emotional progression of the song, leaving listeners both uplifted and haunted.

Many consider the guitar solo to be the defining guitar moment, but this "endless winding road" series of riffs leading up to and enveloping the solo are just as important. It's just as much the journey as the destination, as they say. Not bad for a song that some claim was plagiarized (amidst other plagiarism allegations)!

However, Led Zeppelin won in court after a musicologist noted that the intro's chord sequences has existed literally for centuries (it also doesn't hurt that Led Zeppelin is a rich band that probably had some good lawyers). Another reason they may have won is fairly obvious: They took whatever original riff may have influenced them and made it their own.

4. "How Soon Is Now?" – The Smiths (1984)

I'm not even the hugest fan of The Smiths, I swear! Still, what can I say? They make this list twice!

Johnny Marr strikes again, proving his mastery of emotional riff-making. The brooding , swirling tremolo-laden riff in "How Soon Is Now?" sets an unsettling yet captivating mood. Its hypnotic repetition gives the song a trance-like quality, making it a perfect reflection of alienation and loneliness. And that weird, minimalistic slide guitar part that's sort of a lead guitar? Awesome! Sometimes "minimalistic" playing yields maximum results.

Metallica as an emotional powerhouse

5. "Fade to Black" – Metallica (1984)

Known for their aggression, Metallica showcased their emotional depth with "Fade to Black". The clean, sorrowful opening riff contrasts with the heaviness of the song’s later sections, mirroring its themes of despair and resignation.

The mournful quality of the intro riff has resonated deeply with listeners over the years, and the heavier guitar parts still convey emotion...proving metal music can be brutal and emotional at the same time. Yes, people online sometimes think it's cool to trash this band for being "overrated," and Metallica's discography is a mixed bag with some head-scratchers, for sure. Still, it's no mystery why this song would end up on this list. It's simply very well-done, and one of their absolute best!

What makes these riffs so emotional? Their simplicity often hides a deep complexity, reflecting universal feelings of love, loss, and longing. From Johnny Marr’s melancholic brilliance to David Gilmour’s evocative acoustic ruffs and solos, these riffs become vehicles for profound connection, proving that music doesn’t just touch the ears — it touches the soul.

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