The Riffs That Shaped a Generation of Guitarists
You know the riffs, but you may not associate these guitarists with them. However, there’s no denying that these iconic riffs have inspired a whole new generation of guitarists who are tearing it up today. At the Sonic Temple festival earlier this year, Loudwire had the opportunity to speak with several of today’s top guitarists about the songs and riffs that motivated them to pick up a guitar in the first place.
Black Sabbath: The Metal Originators
When discussing heavy riffs, it’s impossible to overlook the groundbreaking contributions of Black Sabbath. We challenged Gary Holt, guitarist of Exodus and Slayer, to identify what he believes to be the heaviest Sabbath riff. His choice highlights the raw power and influence of Black Sabbath’s music on the heavy metal genre. Check out the video below for his insights.
Influences from Judas Priest
Wayne Lozinak, guitarist for Hatebreed, shared his own inspirations, revealing a double dose of Judas Priest riffs that ignited his passion for the guitar at an early age. The influence of these legendary riffs continues to resonate with aspiring musicians today.
Mark Tremonti and Peelingflesh’s Mychal Soto
In a light-hearted moment, Mychal Soto of the band Peelingflesh expressed his admiration for Mark Tremonti, noting that he grew up listening to Creed. He humorously extended an invitation to Tremonti in case he ever needs an extra hand playing the iconic song “Higher.”
Exploring Iconic Riffs
For a closer look at some of today’s top rock musicians performing the most iconic riffs in rock and metal that inspired their guitar journeys, check out the Loud List below.
10 More Iconic Riffs Played by Guitarists You Know
Top 75 Hard Rock + Metal Guitarists of All Time
Join us as we count down the greatest guitar players in rock and metal history, showcasing their unique styles and contributions to the genre. The gallery is brought to you by the Loudwire staff.
Conclusion
The influence of iconic riffs and legendary guitarists continues to shape the landscape of rock and metal music. As new generations of musicians draw inspiration from these timeless songs, the legacy of these riffs endures, propelling the next wave of talent into the spotlight.
FAQs
Who are some of the guitarists featured in this discussion?
Featured guitarists include Gary Holt of Exodus and Slayer, Wayne Lozinak of Hatebreed, and Mychal Soto of Peelingflesh.
Which band is considered the originator of heavy metal?
Black Sabbath is widely regarded as the originator of heavy metal, with their music serving as a foundation for the genre.
What impact did Judas Priest have on modern guitarists?
Judas Priest’s riffs and style have significantly influenced many modern guitarists, inspiring them to pick up the guitar and pursue a career in music.
What is the significance of iconic riffs in rock music?
Iconic riffs serve as a hallmark of memorable songs, often representing the spirit of the genre and influencing countless musicians across generations.
