The minor pentatonic scale is a cornerstone of rock music, and many iconic songs have used its straightforward yet powerful sound. Here are fifteen famous rock songs that prominently feature the minor pentatonic scale:
1. “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple
Arguably one of the most recognisable rock riffs of all time, “Smoke on the Water” is built on the G minor pentatonic scale. The opening riff is simple yet powerful, showcasing the scale’s ability to create memorable and impactful music.
2. “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin
This classic track features several guitar solos and melodic lines that use the A minor pentatonic scale. Jimmy Page’s solos are a great example of how the scale can be used to create intricate and expressive guitar parts.
3. “Sunshine of Your Love” by Cream
Eric Clapton’s riff in “Sunshine of Your Love” is based on the D minor pentatonic scale. The song’s main riff and solos are perfect examples of how the pentatonic scale can drive a song’s rhythm and lead sections.
4. “Iron Man” by Black Sabbath
Tony Iommi’s iconic riff in “Iron Man” heavily relies on the B minor pentatonic scale. The song’s dark and heavy sound is a testament to the versatility of the minor pentatonic scale in rock and metal music.
5. “Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix
“Purple Haze” features a riff and solos that utilise the E minor pentatonic scale. Jimi Hendrix’s innovative use of the scale, combined with his unique playing style, makes this song a quintessential example of pentatonic rock.
6. “Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin
Another Led Zeppelin classic, “Whole Lotta Love,” features a riff based on the E minor pentatonic scale. Jimmy Page’s use of the scale in both the main riff and solos highlights its effectiveness in creating hard-hitting rock music.
7. “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses
Slash’s famous intro riff and solos in “Sweet Child O’ Mine” are based on the D minor pentatonic scale. The song’s memorable guitar parts showcase the scale’s melodic potential.
8. “Back in Black” by AC/DC
The title track from AC/DC’s landmark album “Back in Black” features a riff based on the E minor pentatonic scale. Angus Young’s guitar work demonstrates the scale’s ability to deliver high-energy rock riffs and solos.
9. “Heartbreaker” by Led Zeppelin
“Heartbreaker” features one of Jimmy Page’s most famous solos, which is primarily based on the A minor pentatonic scale. The song is a great example of the scale’s use in creating fast, technically impressive solos.
10. “Foxy Lady” by Jimi Hendrix
This song features riffs and solos that use the F# minor pentatonic scale. Hendrix’s masterful playing and innovative use of the scale make “Foxy Lady” a standout track in his repertoire.
11. “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes
The White Stripes’ iconic song “Seven Nation Army” heavily relies on the minor pentatonic scale, specifically the E minor pentatonic scale. The song’s famous bass line, which is often played on a guitar using a pitch shifter to mimic a bass guitar, is based on this scale.
12. “No One Knows” by Queens of the Stone Age
The main riff of “No One Knows” by Queens of the Stone Age is based on the C minor pentatonic scale. Josh Homme’s use of the pentatonic scale adds a raw and edgy feel to the song, making it one of the band’s most recognisable tracks.
13. “Enter Sandman” by Metallica
The main riff and solos in “Enter Sandman” primarily use the E minor pentatonic scale. Kirk Hammett’s iconic solos demonstrate the scale’s utility in heavy metal music.
14. “Radioactive” by Imagine Dragons
While Imagine Dragons often incorporate electronic elements into their music, the guitar riff in “Radioactive” uses the E minor pentatonic scale. The song’s dynamic energy and catchy riff demonstrate the scale’s adaptability across different rock subgenres.
15. “Do I Wanna Know?” by Arctic Monkeys
“Do I Wanna Know?” by Arctic Monkeys features a riff that heavily relies on the E minor pentatonic scale. The song’s dark and brooding atmosphere is enhanced by the use of the scale, creating a compelling and memorable track.
Conclusion
The minor pentatonic scale has been a crucial element in the creation of some of rock music’s most iconic songs. Its simplicity and versatility make it an essential tool for any guitarist looking to master the genre. By studying these songs, you can gain a deeper understanding of how the minor pentatonic scale can be used to craft memorable riffs, solos, and melodies.
(Click here to read Part 1 and learn about how the minor pentatonic scale is constructed and how to play it).