Nirvana’s big hit ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ has been named the greatest guitar riff of all time, according to a new list of U Discover Music’s ’40 Of The Best Guitar Riffs Of All Time.’ The song took the top spot, beating out riffs like Deep Purple’s ‘Smoke On The Water’ and Guns N’ Roses’ ‘Sweet Child O’ Mine.’
The list celebrates some of the most famous guitar riffs. It places Nirvana’s ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ at number one. Even with its simple, four-chord riff, the song’s quiet-loud dynamic has made it one of the most memorable riffs both in rock history and in the list.
Coming in fourth on the list is ‘Sweet Child O’ Mine’ by Guns N’ Roses.
At number five is Deep Purple’s ‘Smoke On The Water,’ a riff that has become synonymous with rock music. Guitarist Ritchie Blackmore created the riff during a jam session in Switzerland while the band was recording their album ‘Machine Head.’ Blackmore insisted that to play the riff properly, you must always pluck the strings rather than use a pick.
The list highlights many other guitar riffs. It includes tracks from bands like Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, and The Rolling Stones. It covers songs like ‘Whole Lotta Love,’ ‘Back In Black’ and ‘(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction,’ as well as songs by Jimi Hendrix and more.
Kristin Hersh’s ‘Your Dirty Answer’ takes the last place on the list.
