At 78, Tony Iommi Finally Names 6 Riffs He Calls The Greatest

Why Tony Iommi finally named the six riffs he calls untouchable — and how these legendary guitar creations earned the admiration of the man who helped invent heavy metal. What begins as a simple list quickly becomes a journey through the riffs that transformed rock music and inspired generations of guitarists. Late 20th century — the birth of heavy metal. As the legendary guitarist and founding member of Black Sabbath, Tony Iommi built a career on crushing riffs, dark atmospheres, and an unmistakable guitar tone. From the ominous opening of Black Sabbath to the thunderous power of Iron Man, his playing helped establish an entirely new musical language. Yet even with his extraordinary legacy, certain riffs stood apart as examples of timeless brilliance. In this video, we explore six riffs worthy of Iommi's untouchable standard — guitar passages celebrated for their power, originality, unforgettable melodies, and lasting influence. More than just memorable hooks, these iconic riffs represent the creative foundations of hard rock and heavy metal, continuing to inspire musicians decades after their creation.