5 of the most emotional riffs in music history, pt. 2

Welcome to another look at iconic riffs that tug at the heartstrings. Though the guitar is no longer the dominant instrument in popular music, they are nonetheless one of the most emotive instruments of them all. Of course, part of that is the creative genius of the player, but there's also something about the instrument itself that has inspired riffs that transcend genre and just grab you.

Some guitar riffs do more than just set the tone — they resonate on a deeply emotional level, leaving a permanent mark on listeners. These notes can evoke a spectrum of feelings, from sorrow to yearning, vulnerability to catharsis. In this list, we explore five unforgettable riffs that transcend their simplicity to embody the emotional core of their respective songs.

Whether they lean on minimalism or subtle intricacies, these riffs anchor some of the most poignant moments in modern music, connecting artists and audiences in profound ways.

1. "Exit Music (For a Film)" – Radiohead (1997)

Radiohead’s ability to craft atmospheric emotion is on full display in "Exit Music (For a Film)." The sparse, fingerpicked guitar riff creates an almost unbearable tension, evoking despair and finality. It's not your typical "hold your lighter in the air" sort of song, for sure. but its subtlety is what makes it so haunting, allowing the raw emotions of the lyrics to shine through.

Metallica goes soft again...but in a good way

2. "Nothing Else Matters" – Metallica (1991)

Another entry for Metallica, this time with a ballad showcasing vulnerability. The simple yet poignant opening riff conveys tenderness and longing, a stark contrast to the band’s usual aggressive sound (not that Metallica was exactly one of those "Hail Satan!" metal bands, but you get the idea).

It’s a riff that instantly tugs at the heartstrings, making it one of their most beloved songs. It's not quite as gentle as Peter Frampton’s "Baby I Love Your Way," but it's as close as Metallica could get to that while still being...well, Metallica. Then again, Metallica fans might feel insulted by that, so never mind!

3. "Black" – Pearl Jam (1991)

The chords of "Black" are synonymous with loss and yearning (the Welsh word "hiraeth" might cover the feeling). Stone Gossard’s guitar riff, combined with Eddie Vedder’s emotive vocal delivery, makes this track a quintessential example of emotional resonance in grunge music. Granted, it's not the song that Pearl Jam's Mike McCready is most moved by, but plenty no doubt feel its significance.

The riff stays etched in the memory, carrying the weight of the song’s heartbreak.

The Edge brings some listeners to the edge of crying

4. "With or Without You" – U2 (1987)

Check out the chiming, ethereal riff by The Edge in "With or Without You," augmented by the deeply moving "Infinite Guitar" parts of the intro. Of course, Adam Clayton plays a good and steady bass riff that blends in real well.

It creates a meditative space where Bono’s passionate vocals can soar, making it an unforgettable ode to emotional conflict and love’s complexities.

Of course, some figures in music history, such as Henry Rollins, actually hate U2, but fans of this song hardly require the opinion of someone whose image often seems like a wannabe rage-a-holic (though Rollins Band Come In and Burn is actually pretty solid through and through...wait, how did this get sidetracked into a Henry Rollins comment? Oh, well...)

5. "Tears in Heaven" – Eric Clapton (1992)

Written about his late son, Eric Clapton’s "Tears in Heaven" begins with a tender acoustic riff that radiates sorrow. Its understated elegance underscores the song’s deeply personal lyrics, making it one of the most heart-wrenching pieces ever written. Though there are reasons to criticize Eric Clapton, it's safe to say that, for most, this song isn't one of them.