Lyrics can make a song unforgettable, but sometimes, the music alone is enough to leave a lasting impact. Classic rock has plenty of instrumental tracks that don’t need words to capture emotion, energy, or pure musical brilliance. These songs prove that a great melody or a killer riff can say more than lyrics ever could.
Instrumental rock wasn’t always about flashy guitar shredding. Long before high-speed solos took center stage, bands crafted unforgettable tracks using everything from bluesy grooves to spacey synths. These songs stood out not just for their technical skill but for their ability to create mood and atmosphere.
From the late ‘50s to the mid-‘80s, instrumental classics helped define rock music in their own way. Whether it’s a haunting melody, a driving rhythm, or a burst of sonic experimentation, these 10 songs prove that words aren’t always necessary to make a rock song legendary.
1. “Aurora Borealis” – Meat Puppets, Meat Puppets II (1984)
“Aurora Borealis” from Meat Puppets II (1984) is an overlooked instrumental that blends psychedelic surf-rock with an eerie desert feel. It’s a stark contrast to the album’s country-folk-punk mix, yet it remains one of the band’s most atmospheric pieces. While Nirvana’s Unplugged covers of other tracks stole the spotlight, this song quietly endures.
Curt Kirkwood’s guitar work is the heart of the track. With heavy tremolo and reverb, he crafts a vast, otherworldly soundscape. The absence of lyrics only enhances the feeling of solitude and mystery, making it a truly immersive listen.
This instrumental highlights a different side of the Meat Puppets. It’s introspective, moody, and experimental—showcasing their ability to paint vivid musical landscapes without a single word.
2. “Love Theme from Kiss” – Kiss, Kiss (1974)
“Love Theme from Kiss” debuted on the band’s 1974 self-titled album, offering a rare glimpse into their experimental side. Originally part of an early club song called “Acrobat,” it evolved into a full instrumental that showcased the band’s versatility. Unlike their signature hard rock anthems, this track takes a different approach.
Gene Simmons’ jazzy bassline flows effortlessly beneath Paul Stanley’s guitar, creating a layered and unexpected sound. The chemistry between all four members is on display, proving that Kiss could step outside their usual style. It’s a brief but intriguing detour from their heavier riffs and stadium-ready choruses.
The album features a shorter version of the track, but its legacy didn’t end there. Decades later, it found new life in Sofia Coppola’s film Somewhere, introducing it to a fresh audience. Even without lyrics, it remains a unique piece of Kiss’s early catalog.
3. “Flying” – The Beatles, Magical Mystery Tour (1967)
Released in 1967 on Magical Mystery Tour, “Flying” stands out as one of the few instrumentals in The Beatles’ catalog. All four members share songwriting credit, emphasizing their collaborative spirit. It’s a short but mesmerizing track that fits perfectly within the band’s psychedelic era.
Built on a simple 12-bar blues structure, “Flying” leans heavily into experimentation. Mellotron swells and tape loops create a dreamy, otherworldly atmosphere. Originally titled “Aerial Tour Instrumental,” it captures the free-spirited creativity of Magical Mystery Tour.
The soft “la la la” vocals add to its hypnotic feel, making it more than just a traditional instrumental. Though often overlooked, it remains a fascinating piece of The Beatles’ evolution—proof that even their simplest ideas could leave a lasting impact.
4. “Moby Dick” – Led Zeppelin, Led Zeppelin II (1969)
“Moby Dick” from Led Zeppelin II (1969) is more than just a song—it’s a full-blown drum spectacle. Stripped of vocals, it puts John Bonham’s powerhouse drumming front and center. Originally a longer jam, the studio version condenses his raw energy into an electrifying instrumental.
Jimmy Page kicks things off with a bluesy riff inspired by Bobby Parker’s “Watch Your Step.” The song’s title, a nod to Moby-Dick, hints at the band’s literary influences. It’s a perfect example of how Led Zeppelin blended rock, blues, and storytelling into something uniquely their own.
Live versions turned “Moby Dick” into an epic event. Bonham’s solos stretched beyond 20 minutes, proving why he was one of rock’s greatest drummers. His thunderous playing made this instrumental a defining moment in Led Zeppelin’s legacy.
5. “Sparks” – The Who, Tommy (1969)
“Sparks,” from The Who’s 1969 rock opera Tommy, is an electrifying instrumental that captures the band’s raw energy. Pete Townshend’s thunderous power chords drive the track, while Keith Moon’s drumming adds relentless intensity. It stands out as a pivotal moment in the album’s larger narrative.
The Live at Leeds (1970) performance takes “Sparks” to another level. John Entwistle’s bass provides a solid foundation amid the controlled chaos, allowing the band’s musicianship to shine. This version is often hailed as one of the greatest live rock recordings of all time.
Over the years, “Sparks” remained a concert staple. Its enduring power proves just how vital it is to Tommy, showcasing The Who’s ability to create an unforgettable instrumental experience.
6. “Water Song” – Hot Tuna, Burgers (1972)
“Water Song,” from Hot Tuna’s 1972 album Burgers, is a haunting instrumental that reveals the band’s more introspective side. Jorma Kaukonen’s acoustic guitar takes the lead, creating a melancholic atmosphere. It’s a track that stands out for its subtle yet powerful emotion.
Jack Casady’s bass work perfectly complements Kaukonen’s guitar, adding rich depth to the piece. Their combined blues-folk fusion comes through, showcasing their skill in crafting intricate soundscapes. The interplay between the two musicians elevates the song to something truly special.
Originally written during Kaukonen’s time with Jefferson Airplane, “Water Song” grew with added improvisations. It remains a defining moment in Hot Tuna’s catalog, highlighting their ability to evolve while staying true to their musical roots.
7. “Bourée” – Jethro Tull, Stand Up (1969)
Jethro Tull’s “Bourée,” from Stand Up (1969), is a brilliant reimagining of Bach’s Bourrée in E Minor. Ian Anderson’s flute takes the place of the traditional lute, blending classical elements with rock in an unexpected and fresh way. The result is an instrumental that stands out in Tull’s diverse catalog.
The song is further modernized by Martin Barre’s guitar and Glenn Cornick’s bass, which add a contemporary edge to the Baroque structure. A jazz-swing rhythm layer gives it an even more unique vibe, showcasing the band’s innovative approach to genre fusion.
“Bourée” quickly became a live favorite, with its technical precision and dynamic performance. It highlights Jethro Tull’s versatility, reflecting their ability to seamlessly blend classical, rock, and jazz influences into one cohesive piece.
8. “Beck’s Bolero” – Jeff Beck, single (1967)
“Beck’s Bolero,” recorded in 1966, brought together an iconic supergroup lineup: Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page, John Paul Jones, and Keith Moon. This collaboration highlighted the immense talent of these musicians before their respective bands reached legendary status. It remains a standout piece from the era.
The track blends Spanish bolero rhythms with proto-metal riffs, creating a powerful, dynamic sound. Inspired by Manuel de Falla’s Ritual Fire Dance, it pushes musical boundaries, foreshadowing hard rock elements that would define the following decade. The fusion of classical and rock influences makes it a groundbreaking track.
Released in 1967, “Beck’s Bolero” continues to be celebrated by musicians and fans alike. Its innovative guitar work and pioneering use of rock instrumentation solidified its place as a landmark piece in music history. Even today, it stands as a testament to the creative prowess of its contributors.
9. “Green Onions” – Booker T & the MG’s, Green Onions (1962)
Released in 1962, “Green Onions” by Booker T. & the MG’s became a defining track for Stax Records. Booker T. Jones’s distinctive Hammond organ playing drives the song’s infectious soul sound, making it an instant classic. The track encapsulates the essence of Memphis soul, cementing its place in musical history.
The groove of “Green Onions” was shaped by bassist Lewie Steinberg (not Duck Dunn) and guitarist Steve Cropper. Their improvisational chemistry is on full display, as they seamlessly build the song’s rhythm. The instrumental showcases their ability to create a tight, compelling sound with little more than improvisation.
“Green Onions” went on to popularize the Memphis soul sound, influencing countless musicians across genres. Its iconic riff and catchy melody have made it an unforgettable instrumental. Even decades later, it remains one of the most recognizable tracks in music history.
10. “Rumble” – Link Wray, single (1958)
Released in 1958, “Rumble” by Link Wray is a groundbreaking instrumental that changed the landscape of rock music. The track introduced distorted power chords and a heavy use of tremolo, setting the stage for future genres like punk and surf rock. Its raw energy and edgy guitar work were far ahead of its time.
“Rumble” was so controversial that it was banned in some places for allegedly inciting violence. Despite the backlash, the track’s rebellious spirit influenced bands like The Kinks, becoming a symbol of rock and roll defiance. The song’s intensity captured the attitude of the youth movement, making it an anthem of the era.
In 1974, a live version of “Rumble” amplified its fuzz tone, giving it a grungier sound that predated the grunge movement. This further solidified the track’s iconic status. Today, “Rumble” remains a seminal piece in rock history, a testament to its revolutionary impact on guitar music.