10 Best Intro Songs of All Time
First impressions are everything. A great song intro has the power to grab listeners by the ears, setting the stage for the musical journey that follows. These opening moments can become cultural touchstones, instantly recognizable across generations.
From the jangly chord that kicks off a Beatles classic to the brooding sitar that transports us to a Rolling Stones’ dark reverie, the best intros are mini-masterpieces in their own right. They can encapsulate an entire era, define a genre, or simply make us want to turn up the volume and listen again and again.
In this article, we’ll explore 10 of the most iconic, innovative, and unforgettable song intros of all time. These are the sounds that have shaped music history, leaving an indelible mark on our collective musical consciousness.
1. “A Hard Day’s Night” by The Beatles
When it comes to iconic intros, few can match the impact of The Beatles’ “A Hard Day’s Night.” The opening chord has sparked countless debates among musicologists. Is it a Gsus4, a Dm11 without the 9th, or just an F with a G on top?
Whatever the case, this jangly combination of 12-string Rickenbacker, bass, piano, and acoustic guitar marked the beginning of The Beatles’ imperial period.
The recognizable intro’s mysterious nature has only added to its legend, cementing its place in music history and announcing the band’s arrival as America’s favorite group.
2. “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen
“Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?”
From the moment Freddie Mercury’s voice emerges from the silence, listeners are transported into Queen’s masterpiece. The a cappella intro builds tension and curiosity, setting the stage for the musical journey that follows.
“Bohemian Rhapsody” is a song that transcends generations, and its intro plays a crucial role in establishing the epic scope of the piece. It’s a testament to Queen’s ability to create music that sounds like it was made in heaven.
3. “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson
The crisp drum beat and pulsating bass intro that open “Billie Jean” are instantly recognizable. This intro doesn’t just set the rhythm; it establishes the mood for Michael Jackson’s tale of fame, paranoia, and denied paternity.
The King of Pop’s signature song showcases his ability to blend pop, funk, and dance music into an irresistible package. From the very first seconds, “Billie Jean” proves why MJ was in a league of his own.
4. “Black Dog” by Led Zeppelin
When it comes to rock intros, Led Zeppelin’s “Black Dog” stands tall.
Plant’s voice and the unaccompanied, bluesy guitar riff that kicks off the song is a masterclass in tension-building. As the riff repeats, listeners find themselves hanging on every note, waiting for the full band to explode into action.
While “Stairway to Heaven” might be more famous overall, the raw energy of “Black Dog’s” intro captures the essence of Led Zeppelin’s hard-rocking style.
5. “Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye
Sometimes, less is more. Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On” proves this with its deceptively simple three-note intro. The brief wah guitar motif may last only a moment, but it’s all that’s needed to set the mood for one of the most sensual songs ever recorded.
The slightly held-back timing of these notes builds anticipation in a split second, preparing listeners for Gaye’s smooth, soulful vocals and the song’s lustful message.
6. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen
In just 14 seconds, Bruce Springsteen manages to capture the essence of youthful ambition and the American dream. The intro to “Born to Run” is a wall of sound, featuring drums that rumble like a revving engine, multiple guitars, pianos, organs, and even a glockenspiel.
This grand opening sets the stage for Springsteen’s epic tale of escape and romance. It’s a perfect example of how an intro can establish the scale and emotion of a song before a single word is sung.
7. “Paint It, Black” by The Rolling Stones
The haunting sitar riff that opens “Paint It, Black” immediately transports listeners to a darker, more mysterious world. This intro perfectly sets up the brooding atmosphere of the song, hinting at the emotional turmoil expressed in the lyrics.
The song’s popularity has endured over the years, finding new audiences through its use in various media, including the memorable trailer for “Call of Duty: Black Ops 3.”
8. “Crazy Train” by Ozzy Osbourne
“All aboard!” Ozzy Osbourne’s scream, followed by maniacal laughter, kicks off one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in rock and heavy metal history. The intro to “Crazy Train” is a perfect encapsulation of Ozzy’s larger-than-life persona and the high-energy metal sound he helped pioneer.
This perfect introduction not only sets up the song but also invites listeners to join in, with its infectious “ay ay ay” chant that’s guaranteed to get a crowd going.
9. “Welcome to the Jungle” by Guns N’ Roses
The intro to “Welcome to the Jungle” is a masterclass in building anticipation. It starts with a single, effects-laden guitar, gradually joined by the rest of the band until Axl Rose’s signature scream launches the song into high gear.
This intro perfectly sets up the wild ride that is “Welcome to the Jungle,” a song that captures the dangerous allure of the big city. It’s no wonder this became Guns N’ Roses’ breakthrough hit and remains one of rock’s most iconic openers.
10. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana
Few intros capture the spirit of an entire musical movement as well as Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” The quiet-loud dynamic of the intro, with its muted power chords exploding into distorted fury, became a blueprint for the grunge era.
Kurt Cobain’s songwriting genius is on full display here, crafting an intro that’s both instantly memorable and perfectly representative of the raw emotion and energy that defined Nirvana’s sound.
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