60s Guitar riffs should be the foundation for your guitar playing. From a period of rock pioneers, here are some cool riffs for you to try out.
60s Guitar Riffs: The Dawn of Rock N’ Roll
So far here on gearnews, we’ve featured notable guitar riffs from the 1970s and 1980s. This week, adding to this mini saga, we’re checking out some classic riffs from the 1960s.
Name all of the stereotypes you like, but the 1960s was a global time for prosperity in popular culture. From The Beatles to an E-Type Jaguar, or even the moon landings. Everyone has some association with the decade.
This run down of riffs features some that are easier than others. Aiming to cater for all tastes and abilities. So, grab your guitar and let’s go!
You Really Got Me – The Kinks
Straight from the summer of 1964, this tune from The Kinks has such a cool opening hook that forms the foundation for the rest of the song. So cool that Van Halen later covered it in 1978.
Ideal for beginners, this 60s guitar riff comprises power chords with sliding up and down the fretboard. Unsure on power chords? It’s where we play the root note of a chord, along with the perfect 5th at the same time. On guitar, this is typically done with the first and third fingers.
Working around the F and G power chords, we’re based around the 1st and 3rd frets in the intro. Add a bit of gain and you’ll be rocking out to this simple riff for ages.
Looking for a faithful 60s guitar that won’t break the bank? Check out these from Thomann. We’ve got a Harley Benton Rickenbacker copy, and an Epiphone ES-335.
(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction – The Rolling Stones
Our next 60s guitar riff is another timeless track that has really stood the tests of time. You’re either a Stones or Beatles fan. I must admit, I will be forever faithful to the Fab Four. Nonetheless, this is a great single string riff.
That’s right, we can play this one just one string. I loved learning this when I was finding my feet with guitar playing.
Starting on the 2nd fret of the A string, we can also just use one finger if we like. Personally, I’d go for my first and third fingers, sliding where necessary.
Taken too soon, Brian Jones was an original member of The Rolling Stones. In 1966 he played this song on a tasty looking Gibson Firebird on The Ed Sullivan Show.
All Along The Watchtower – The Jimi Hendrix Experience
As a guitarist, learning some Hendrix is virtually right of passage. Other than this one, he has so many other wicked 60s guitar riffs. Some include:
This time, our 60s guitar riff is aimed more at accomplished players. There’s no reason not to have a good go, however we’ve got a load of bends in the riff. Moreover, we’ve included the backing barre chords that open the song. If these techniques are new to you, then you could checkout our guides on barre chords and string bending.
There are loads of ways to sound like Hendrix. From artist signature Stratocasters to pickups.
Sunshine Of Your Love – Cream
Moving on, we’ve got another staple when it comes to guitar riffs. Stairway To Heaven and Smoke On The Water are banned at most guitar stores, but I think this one slips through the net.
Clapton’s first musical endeavour, Cream are quite an underrated band in terms of class leading classic rock tunes. The guitar work displayed during his time in Cream was just a glimpse of what was to come from the British rocker.
Pretty much a variation on a theme here, we want to play the single note version of the riff with our first and ring fingers. And, when happy, we can progress to playing the barre chord equivalent.
Believe it or not, the Fender Stratocaster wasn’t always Clapton’s first choice. At this point in his career, he leaned towards the heavier Gibson SG.
Oh, Pretty Woman – Roy Orbison
For our final pick of essential 60s guitar riffs, we’re delving back to the start of the decade. This is also a 12-string guitar riff, but can be played just as well on a regular 6-string.
First of all, when was the last time you heard of someone called Roy? What a cool name, a name of someone you can depend on. Anyway! This is one of those era defining boy meets girl kind of songs.
However, from a guitarist’s perspective it has a repetitive riff that allows you to switch strings and frets. I’d label this one as a perfect riff for beginners who want a bit of a challenge.
Are you looking for a 12-string guitar? One that matches the quality of this timeless track? Well, here are a few personal recommendations:
60s Guitar Riffs – Learn now, play forever
When learning pieces of rock and roll history like this, you’re joining a community of players with what feels like an intimate shared knowledge. Learn these riffs now, and they’ll be with you throughout the rest of your time on the globe.
Do you have any other riffs from the decade that you enjoy playing?
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