Riff: Meaning (information, definition, explanation, facts)

A riff is an ostinato figure: a repeated chord progression or melodic figure, often played by the rhythm section instruments, that forms the basis or accompaniment of a rock music or jazz composition.

The term "riff" is sometimes regarded as slang, and is used primarily in discussion of forms of rock music or jazz.

David Brackett (1999) defines them as, "short melodic phrases," while Richard Middleton (1999) defines them as, "short rhythmic, melodic, or harmonic figures repeated to form a structural framework."

Pieces and songs that depend on riffs for their effect

• "Sing, Sing, Sing" by Benny Goodman
• "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" by The Rolling Stones
• "Na Na Hey Hey Goodbye" by Steam
• "Smoke on the Water" by Deep Purple
• "Stayin' Alive" by the Bee Gees
• "Vision Thing" by The Sisters of Mercy
• "The Glorious Om Riff" by Steve Hillage
• "Master of the Universe" by Hawkwind
• "One of These Days" by Pink Floyd
• "Beat It" by Michael Jackson
• "Seven Nation Army" by The White Stripes
• "Favorite Mistake" by Sheryl Crow
• "Dark Chest Of Wonders" and "Dead Gardens" by Nightwish
• "Tornado Of Souls" by Megadeth
• "Hot Dog" by Limp Bizkit

Notation and sound examples

• "In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida" by Iron Butterfly

Listen to the above. (more info)

• "Iron Man" by Black Sabbath

Listen to the above. (more info)

• Middleton, Richard (1999). Form. Key Terms in Popular Music and Culture. Malden, Massachusetts. ISBN 0631212639.
• Brackett, David (1999). Music. Key Terms in Popular Music and Culture. Malden, Massachusetts. ISBN 0631212639.