The Legendary Riff Tony Iommi Instantly Knew Was Iconic
Some moments in life are unforgettable—like the first sip of a drink on a Friday evening or slipping into a pair of fresh socks. But for a select few, there’s a moment that stands apart: the instant they create something timeless. For Tony Iommi of Black Sabbath, that moment came when he wrote the riff for ‘Black Sabbath,’ a song that would become a cornerstone of heavy metal.
Iommi, widely regarded as one of rock music’s most influential guitarists, has penned countless iconic riffs over his career. These riffs didn’t just define Black Sabbath; they shaped the very fabric of rock music, influencing generations of guitarists, including Eddie Van Halen, James Hetfield, and Billy Corgan. Known for his gritty, sludgy tone, Iommi’s playing is immediately recognizable and unmatched in its impact.
In a 2024 interview with Loudwire Nights, Iommi reflected on his career and shared insights into his creative process. When asked if there was a particular riff he knew would be legendary, he didn’t hesitate to name ‘Black Sabbath,’ the title track from the band’s 1970 debut album.
“Well, without sounding big-headed, [there were] a few,” Iommi said with a laugh. “When we’d first done the ‘Black Sabbath’ riff, straight away I knew—it just had this vibe and a feeling. It was something so different in those days that you’d never heard that sort of thing before. And I don’t know how it all happened. It just sort of came out. And that was the benchmark for that album.”
This riff, dark and foreboding, set the tone for the band’s ominous, detuned sound and introduced the world to a new genre of music. For Iommi, it wasn’t just another riff; it was a defining moment, both for him and for rock music as a whole.
The guitarist also spoke about other memorable riffs he’s created, like ‘Into the Void’ and ‘Iron Man.’ Each riff, according to Iommi, holds a special place in his heart. For instance, ‘Into the Void’ stands out as a favorite, partly because it was cherished by his friend and legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen. Iommi recalled how Van Halen once told him it was his favorite Sabbath riff, a memory that still brings him joy.
He also touched on ‘Iron Man,’ one of the band’s most simplistic yet iconic tracks. Despite its straightforward structure, it has resonated with audiences worldwide and remains a staple of Black Sabbath’s legacy.
For Iommi, creating riffs isn’t just about technical skill or musicality; it’s an emotional and intangible process. Each riff tells a story, marking a moment in time that’s deeply personal to him. From the groundbreaking power of ‘Black Sabbath’ to the fan-favorite ‘Into the Void,’ Iommi’s riffs have defined not just his career but an entire genre.
Reflecting on his career, Iommi remains humble yet proud of the impact his work has had, noting that these riffs continue to inspire musicians and fans alike. For him, it’s a legacy that’s as enduring as the music itself.
