Posted on 05/14/2011 10:37:12 PM PDT by This Just In
Do you recall that epic drum intro to the song, 50 Ways to Leave Your Lover, by Paul Simon? Does anyone remember the name of that famous drummer who created that intro? Im guessing that right about now that groove is playing in your minds eye (or ear). The great Steve Gadd came up with one of the most unforgettable licks and intros in the history of rock n roll.
Just a few days ago my better half and I were busy logging some miles between point A and point B on our scenic drive when we started talking about music. What are the most recognizable drum intros you remember, we asked one another? Rock intros, to be more precise. Steve Gadds monumental drum lick was the catalyst for our topical conversation.
I was reminded of our conversation the other day as I read a thread here on FR titled, Rolling Stone Readers Pick the Best Ballads of All Time. Frankly, the Freepers lists of Best Ballads were far better than the list the Rolling Stone came up with. The old motor in the noggin starting turning, and I wondered what your picks would be if there was a poll in choosing the most identifiable drum and guitar intros to a rock song.
The reason I say identifiable is because favs are generally subjective. Identifiable can be just as subjective, but whether you like the band, the songs, or the riffs, licks, and/or fills, some songs are instantly identified by a broad audience.
So, your mission, if you choose to accept it, is to list 5 of the most easily identified drum intros, and 5 of the most easily identified guitar intros. These choices do not have to be solo instrumentation, but either the drum or guitar must be pronounced. It's time to rock....
1. Eruption - Eddie Van Halen, Van Halen 2. Whole Lotta Love - Jimmy Page, Led Zepplin 3. Money For Nothin - Mark Knopfler, Dire Straits 4. Walk This Way - Joe Perry, Aerosmith 5. (Don't Fear) The Reaper - Donald "Buck Dharma" Roeser, Blue Oyster Cult
Honorable mention: Black Magic Woman - Carlos Santana, Show Me The Way - Peter Framption, Hold The Line - Steve Lukather/Jeff Porcaro, Jet Airliner - Steve Miller, Layla - Derek and the Dominos, Sweet Home Alabama - Gary Rossington, Lynard Skynard, Purple Haze - Hendrix
Drum intros:
1. We Will Rock You - Roger Taylor, Queen 2. Wipe Out - Ron Wilson, Sufaris 3. Fire - Jimi Hendrix 4. Hold The Line - Steve Lukather/Jeff Porcaro, Toto 5. Fool in the Rain - John Bonham, Led Zeppling
CCR- i put a spell on you
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xeXqtzusIU0
CCR-night time is the right time (vocals are freakin awesome)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nrh8FGaBiyE
Two enthusiastic thumbs up.
Guitar -— Reelin’ in the years-— steely dan
Drums -—Dance the night away -— Van Halen
the crunge
Guitar: Steely Dan - Reelin’ in the Years
Guitar: GNR Sweet Child of Mine
Drums: Van Halen Hot for teacher.
1. La Grange - ZZ Top
2. Long Train Runnin' - Doobie Brothers
3. Reelin' In The Years - Steely Dan
4. Ramblin' Man - Allman Bros.
5. Alright Now - Free
Guitar intro #1: ‘I’m Going Home’ - Ten Years After (at Woodstock)
Whatever’s in second place ain’t close.
Dang, you reminded me of Hendrix’s Star Stangled Banner
Steve Gadd is one of the all time greats. If you want to see how he did it, you'll find an excerpt from one of his instructional videos on You Tube. It's fascinating.
Mark
How High the Moon performed by Les Paul and Mary Ford on the vocals.
Although the thread title does specify rock, I think most fans of that genre will acknowledge the significant influences and innovations of Les Paul. Plus, I'll admit that the song is a personal favorite from the era of my childhood when my tastes were being formed.
In fine print, I'll also wedge in a mention for Grady Martin's great guitar riff (albeit not an intro but in the middle) on Don't Worry by Marty Robbins. I don't necessarily buy the well-traveled story that the fuzz/distortion was accidental though. YMMV.
We now return the thread to the young people and rockers. This oldtimer is off to dreamland soon. :-)
"Ain't That A Shame"...Cheap Trick cover version.
#1 in my book....
Good Times / Bad Times - Led Zeppelin
Your list, for what ever reason, caused a flashback to Free Ride by the Edgar Winter Group.
Love the list, btw.
Metal Ping!
Metal Ping!
I went to their show about 30+ years ago. Nielson and Bun rocked.
How long does it take ANYONE to recognize Sweet Home Alabama?
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