There’s no doubt that pop and rock music is all about the lyrics. After all, what is a pop or rock song without lyrics? Well, according to some of the most iconic songs of all time, not much at all.
From Van Halen’s “Eruption” to Mason Williams’ “Classical Gas”, these 18 instrumental songs prove that a great song doesn’t always need words. So if you’re looking for a little inspiration from many genres and don’t feel like writing your own lyrics, check out these iconic tracks that will get your creative juices flowing!
Keys For Instrumental Songs
One of the most important keys to writing a great instrumental song is having a catchy melody. without lyrics, the melody is everything. It needs to be strong enough to carry the song on its own and keep the listener engaged throughout.
Another key element is instrumentation. Having a variety of instruments playing different parts can make for a more interesting and dynamic song. And lastly, don’t forget about the rhythm! A solid beat is essential for any good song, regardless of whether or not it has lyrics.
Now that you know what makes a great instrumental song, check out some of the best examples below.
About Instrumental Music
Due to the popularity of instrumental music in many genres such as Jazz, Bluegrass music, Soundtrack and Classical, we have opted to only include rock and pop for our list and will do a separate article on the best instrumental songs in those genres. So if you are looking for Miles Davis or Thomas Newman, don’t worry, they will be featured soon.
Instrumental music is any type of music that does not have lyrics or words. This can be anything from classical symphonies to modern-day pop songs. While some instrumental songs are purely instrumental, others may include occasional vocalizations or sung melodies.
The majority of popular musicians and music is vocal-based, with the lyrics being the focus of the song. However, there have been many iconic and influential songs throughout history that prove that instrumentals can be just as effective, if not more so, than their lyrical counterparts.
Great Gig In The Sky by Pink Floyd
While Pink Floyd is known for their lengthy concept albums and political anthems in the music industry, they also know how to rock out without any vocals at all. “Great Gig In The Sky” is a perfect example of this, as the band uses instrumentation to create a powerful and emotional experience that does not rely on lyrics in this recording masterpiece.
If you’re looking for a song to get lost in, this is the perfect track. The slow build of the intro, the ethereal sound of the guitars, and the gentle yet driving beat all come together to create a truly mesmerizing experience. Featured on the all-time classic Dark Side of the Moon, “Great Gig In The Sky” is a must-listen for any fan of rock music. If you do not have DSOTM in your vinyl collection, see our daily vinyl deals page to pickup a copy for a great price.
While “Great Gig In The Sky” is Pink Floyd’s most famous instrumental track, it’s certainly not their only one. Other notable examples include “Echoes” from Meddle and “Atom Heart Mother”.
Eruption by Van Halen
You can’t have a list of great rock songs without at least one from Van Halen. One of the most influential guitarists of all time, Eddie Van Halen redefined what was possible on the instrument and inspired a generation of guitar players in the process. “Eruption” is one of those songs that is instantly recognizable, even if you’ve never heard it before.
“Eruption” is a perfect example of Van Halen’s guitar prowess, as the track is essentially one long guitar solo. Clocking in at just over two minutes, the song is a showcase of Eddie’s lightning-fast picking and masterful use of tapping. If you’re looking for a lesson in how to shred on the guitar, this is the song for you.
Featured on the 1978 self-titled debut album, “Eruption” quickly became one of the bands fan favorite songs and has gone on to become one of the most iconic guitar solos of all time.
Classical Gas by Mason Williams
Mason Williams’ “Classical Gas” is a perfect example of how an instrumental track can be both complex and catchy at the same time. Written in 1968, the song is a masterclass in guitar composition and features some of the most impressive fingerpicking ever put to tape.
While the song may be over 50 years old, it still sounds fresh and exciting today. The use of countermelodies and chord changes give the track a sense of forward momentum, while the main melody is catchy enough to get stuck in your head for days.
“Classical Gas” was originally released as a single in 1968 and appeared on Williams’ 1968 album The Mason Williams Phonograph Record. The track has since been covered by a who’s who of guitar legends, including Eric Clapton, Chet Atkins, and Steve Vai.
Cliffs of Dover by Eric Johnson
You may not be familiar with Eric Johnson’s name, but chances are you’ve heard his work before. A session musician for artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan and Cat Stevens, Johnson is a world-renowned guitar player with a style all his own. “Cliffs of Dover” is arguably his most famous composition, and it’s easy to see why.
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The song is a perfect showcase of Johnson’s guitar skills, as he effortlessly moves between different techniques and styles. From the fingerpicked intro to the soaring lead lines, the song is a journey from start to finish. The track also features one of the most iconic guitar solos of all time, cementing Johnson’s place as one of the greatest guitar players of all time.
“Cliffs of Dover” was originally released on Johnson’s 1990 album Ah Via Musicom and has since been featured in a number of films and television shows.
Europa by Santana
Santana is a true icon of Latin rock, and “Europa” is one of their most famous tracks. Released in 1976, the song features some of the band’s best work, including a blistering guitar solo from Carlos Santana himself.
The song is anchored by a catchy bass line and a groove that is impossible to resist. The guitar solo is the icing on the cake, as Santana demonstrates his masterful use of legato and vibrato. Featured on the 1969 album, Amigos, “Europa” is a true classic and a must-hear for any fan of rock guitar.
Ghenghis Khan by Iron Maiden
Iron Maiden is one of the most influential heavy metal bands of all time, and “Ghenghis Khan” is one of their most iconic tracks. Released in 1984, the song is a perfect example of the band’s signature sound, featuring fast-paced guitar work and pounding drums.
The guitar solo is particularly impressive, as it seamlessly weaves its way through the chaotic riffing. If you’re a fan of metal guitar, this is a song that you need to check out. If you ever questioned the drumming skills of Clive Burr, this track will quickly put those doubts to rest.
“Ghenghis Khan” was originally released on Iron Maiden’s 1981 album, Killers, along with a second instrumental track, “The Ideas of March” on the same album. The track has since been included on a number of the band’s live albums and compilations.
Freeway Jam by Jeff Beck
Jeff Beck is a true guitar legend, and “Freeway Jam” is one of his most famous tracks. Released in 1977, this greatest song is a showcase for Beck’s virtuosic guitar playing, as he effortlessly moves between different techniques and styles.
The song features a simple but effective bass line that anchors the track, while the guitar work is nothing short of spectacular. From the fast-paced licks to the signature sound effects, Beck demonstrates his mastery of the instrument. The track also features a guest appearance from keyboardist Jan Hammer, who would go on to have a successful solo career.
“Freeway Jam” was originally released on Beck’s 1975 album, Blow by Blow. The track has since been covered by a number of artists, including Steve Vai and Joe Satriani.
YYZ by Rush
Rush is one of the most popular and influential rock bands of all time, and “YYZ” is one of their most famous tracks. Released in 1981, the song is a perfect example of the band’s signature sound, featuring intricate guitar work and complex drums.
The guitar solo is particularly impressive, as it weaves its way through the chaotic riffing. If you’re a fan of progressive rock, this is a song that you need to check out. The track features amazing drum work from Neil Peart, who is considered to be one of the greatest drummers of all time.
“YYZ” was originally released on Rush’s 1981 album, Moving Pictures. The track has since been covewred by a variety of artists from Godsmak to Muse.
Tubulars Bells Pt. 1 by Mike Oldfield
Mike Oldfield is a true pioneer of progressive rock, and “Tubular Bells Pt. 1” is his most famous track. Released in 1973, the song is a perfect example of Oldfield’s unique style, featuring a wide variety of instruments and sounds.
The song is anchored by a simple but effective melody, which is repeated throughout the track. The real star of the show, however, is the guitar solo. Oldfield demonstrates his masterful use of legato and vibrato, creating a truly iconic sound.
“Tubular Bells Pt. 1” was originally released on Oldfield’s 1973 album of the same name.
Whale & Wasp by Alice in Chains
Alice in Chains is one of the most popular grunge bands of all time, and “Whale & Wasp” is one of their most iconic tracks. Released in 1994 on the Jar of Flies EP, the song is a perfect example of the band’s signature sound minus the vocals.
The guitar solo is particularly impressive, as it weaves its way through the chaotic riffing. If you’re a fan of metal guitar, this is a song that you need to check out. The track features amazing drum work from the underrated Sean Kinney.
“Whale & Wasp” is one of Alice in Chains’ most experimental songs, and it’s a perfect example of how the band could create a dark and atmospheric sound without relying on lyrics.
VooDoo Child – Instrumental by Jimi Hendrix
“Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” is one of Jimi Hendrix’s most popular tracks, and the instrumental version is just as good as the original. The song features Hendrix’s signature guitar sound, which is a perfect blend of blues and rock.
The instantly recognizable intro with the wah wah pedal is one of the most iconic moments in rock history. Hendrix’s guitar playing is nothing short of spectacular, and he effortlessly moves between different techniques and styles. The guitar solo is particularly impressive, as Hendrix effortlessly moves between different techniques and styles. The song also features a simple but effective bass line that anchors the track.
“Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” was originally released on Hendrix’s 1968 album, Electric Ladyland. The track has since been covered by a number of artists, including Stevie Ray Vaughan and Eric Clapton.
Sirius by The Alan Parsons Project
“Sirius” is one of the most popular tracks by The Alan Parsons Project, and it’s also one of the most iconic instrumentals in rock history. The song was originally released in 1977 on the album I Robot, and it features a wide variety of instruments including guitars, keyboards, and drums.
The song is anchored by a simple but effective melody, which is repeated throughout the track. The real star of the show, however, is the guitar solo. Parsons demonstrates his masterful use of legato and vibrato, creating a truly iconic sound.
“Sirius” has been covered by a number of artists, including Steve Vai and Joe Satriani.
Albatross by Fleetwood Mac
Before Stevie Nicks and Linsday Buckingham joined the band, Fleetwood Mac was a British blues rock band. “Albatross” is one of their most popular tracks, and it’s also one of the most iconic instrumentals in rock history. The song was originally released in 1968 on the album Blue Horizon, and it features a simple but effective guitar melody.
Featuring the classic guitar work of the late Peter Green, “Albatross” is a perfect example of the band’s signature sound. The familiar rhythm section of Mick Fleetwood and John McVie ties the whole track together, and the result is a truly timeless classic.
“Albatross” has been covered by a number of artists, including George Harrison and B.B. King.
Frankenstein by Edgar Winter Group
“Frankenstein” is one of the most popular tracks by the Edgar Winter Group, and it’s also one of the most iconic instrumentals in rock history. The song was originally released in 1973 on the album They Only Come Out at Night, and it features a simple but effective guitar melody.
The real star of the show, however, is the drum solo. Featuring the incredible work of Chuck Ruff, the drum solo is one of the most iconic moments in rock history. The mesmerizing work of Edgar Winter is also on display, and the result is a truly unforgettable track.
Axel F. (Beverly Hills Cop Theme Song) By Harold Faltermeier
How could we have a songs without lyrics list and not include one of the most popular instrumentals of all time, “Axel F.” by Harold Faltermeier? One of the best instrumental songs, it was originally released in 1984 and was featured in the film Beverly Hills Cop as the theme song.
The song is built around a simple but effective keyboard melody, which is repeated throughout the track. The real star of the show, however, is the drum machine. The use of electronic drums was fairly new at the time, and “Axel F.” was one of the first popular songs to make use of them.
Little Martha by Allman Brothers Band
The Allman Brothers Band is one of the most influential bands in rock history, and “Little Martha” is one of their most iconic tracks. The song was originally released in 1972 on the album Eat a Peach, and it features a simple but effective guitar melody.
The real star of the show, however, is Duane Allman’s guitar playing. Allman was a true pioneer of the slide guitar, and his work on “Little Martha” is nothing short of spectacular. The song also features a simple but effective bass line from the late Berry Oakley.
Wipeout by The Surfaris
This instrumental song was released in 1963 and has become one of the most popular songs to play at sporting events. The song is also commonly used in movies and television shows.
The guitar riff in the song is played by Bob Berryhill and is one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in rock history. The song also features a drum solo by Ron Wilson.
Dance of Eternity by Dream Theater
“Dance of Eternity” is one of the most popular tracks by Dream Theater, and it’s also one of the most iconic instrumentals in rock history. The song was originally released in 1999 on the album Metropolis Pt. 2: Scenes from a Memory, and it features a wide variety of instruments including guitars, keyboards, and drums.
The experimental rock song is anchored by a simple but effective melody, which is repeated throughout the track. The real star of the show, however, is the guitar solo. John Petrucci demonstrates his masterful use of legato and vibrato, creating a truly iconic sound.
Little Wing (Instrumental Song Version) by Stevie Ray Vaughan
The instrumental cover of Little Wing performed by Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble is one of the most popular and well known songs without words in rock history. It was originally released as part of the album In Step in 1989, and it quickly became a fan favorite.
Vaughan’s guitar playing is nothing short of spectacular, and he effortlessly moves between different techniques and styles. The guitar solo is particularly impressive, as Vaughan demonstrates his masterful use of legato and vibrato. The result is a truly stunning performance that is sure to leave any listener mesmerized.
“Little Wing” as a unique cover song has been re-imagined by a number of artists, including Eric Clapton and David Gilmour.
Wrapping Up Songs Without Lyrics
As you can see, there are a number of popular and iconic songs that have been created without any lyrics. These tracks prove that rock music doesn’t always need words to be successful. We hope you enjoyed this list of songs without lyrics, and we hope you’ll check out some of these tracks for yourself!
