Cool Song Intros

The other day Retrocrush posted their list of 50 Coolest Song Parts. Since it was listed on Fark I’m sure that everyone and their brother has already seen it. It’s really a fun list to go through. I don’t agree with some of their choices. (They are completely crazy with the whole Lionel Ritchie thing.) But it will definitely bring a smile to your face.

I thought I would gather up a few of my favorites. I have a hard saying anything is my “all-time favorite” so these are just some of mine.

My favorite jangly, reverb-saturated, vibrato-laden, guitar-riff driven, song intros.

"Meat Is Murder" Album Cover

“How Soon Is Now?” by The Smiths from “Meat Is Murder” (1985)

The pulsing stereo guitar goes straight from the speakers and latches itself onto your brain–refusing to let go. Not even a sudden burst of what can best be described as a “space harmonica” can save you.

"Disintegration" Album Cover

“Pictures Of You” by The Cure from “Distintegration” (1989)

The glistening chimes and doubled-up melodies from the guitars will make you want to fall in love.

"The Wedding Album" Album Cover

“Come Undone” by Duran Duran from “The Wedding Album” (1993)

You’ve just fallen overboard and are drowning. You can tell by the phasey riffs coming out the guitar and the occasional plopping noises. Once the bass kicks in you know you’ve hit bottom.

My favorite bad-ass R&B song intros.

"Shotgun" Album Cover

“Shotgun” by Junior Walker & The All-Stars from “Shotgun” (1965)

The blast of the gun is just the start. When saxophone starts wailing all hopes of getting away from this irrestible tune are in vain.

"Greatest Hits, Vol. 2" Album Cover

“Ball Of Confusion (That’s What The World Is Today)” by The Temptations from “Greatest Hits, Vol. 2” (1970)

The relentless bass line and the continual building of this song–echoey riff, shanking guitar, classic Motown harmony–make you want to jump out of your seat by the time the first “Ball of Confusion” hits in 4-part glory.

"Shaft" Album Cover

“Theme From ‘Shaft'” by Isaac Hayes from “Shaft” (1971)

This song epitomizes “cool”. It never stops building on to itself with high-hat, waka-chika guitar, piano, bottom-heavy bass, and a horn section that won’t quit. Shut your mouth!