7 Classic Rock Songs That Feature Unlikely Instruments

Rock and roll music has always given us some memorable tunes that stick with us for a lifetime. But sometimes, it’s not just the catchy lyrics or the powerful guitar riffs that make these songs stand out; it’s the unusual choice of instruments that add an extra layer of awesomeness. From the cool sounds of a 12-string bass to the haunting vibes of a theremin, these seven classic rock songs showcase how thinking outside the box musical-wise led to some truly great tracks.

12-string bass – ‘Wherever I May Roam’ (Metallica)

When we think of Metallica, we usually imagine electrifying guitar solos and thunderous drumming. But in ‘Wherever I May Roam’, it’s the 12-string bass played by Jason Newsted that steals the show. This isn’t your average bass guitar; with its rich, full sound, the 12-string bass adds a unique depth to the song that you can’t help but notice. Imagine taking the deep sounds of a regular bass and then multiplying that by a factor of epic. That’s what Newsted did, creating an opening that’s both haunting and unforgettable.

The song kicks off with an array of mystical sounds, including chimes and what seems like an electric sitar, before the 12-string bass leads into the powerful main riff. This instrument doesn’t just play notes; it sets the entire mood for the song, laying a foundation that’s hard to ignore. It’s a prime example of how one instrument, played in a unique way, can elevate a rock song from good to legendary.

Bagpipes – ‘It’s A Long Way to the Top’ (AC/DC)

AC/DC is a band that likes to stick to its rocking roots. But they surprised everyone when they incorporated bagpipes into ‘It’s A Long Way to the Top’, played by none other than Bon Scott. The bagpipes bring a sense of rebellion and uniqueness to the song, making it stand out in the vast sea of rock tracks. It’s not every day you hear the shrill cry of bagpipes in a rock song, after all.

Scott, with his natural showmanship, didn’t just play the bagpipes; he rocked them. The distinct sound of the bagpipes adds a layer of enthusiasm and energy to the song, blending perfectly with the band’s signature sound. This bold move by AC/DC showed that rock and roll isn’t just about guitars and drums; it’s about making music that breaks barriers and defies expectations.

Vocal Brass Section – ‘Seaside Rendezvous’ (Queen)

Queen has always been known for their musical versatility and ‘Seaside Rendezvous’ is a playful showcase of this. Instead of bringing in a brass band, Freddie Mercury and Roger Taylor decided to take matters into their own hands, or rather, their own mouths. They mimicked brass instruments with their voices, from the trombone to the trumpet, adding a whimsical charm to the song.

This creative decision adds a unique twist to the track, making it feel like a joyful stroll down a beach promenade. The ‘vocal brass’ blends seamlessly with the song’s jaunty rhythm, proving that sometimes, the human voice can be the most versatile instrument of all.

Kazoo – ‘Crosstown Traffic’ (Jimi Hendrix)

Jimi Hendrix, a guitar legend, surprised everyone by featuring a kazoo in ‘Crosstown Traffic’. This tiny instrument, often associated with children’s music, added an unexpected texture to the rock classic. Hendrix wasn’t shy about experimenting with sounds, and the kazoo is a perfect example of his innovative spirit.

By combining the kazoo with his guitar prowess, Hendrix created a sound that’s both playful and edgy. It’s a reminder that great music doesn’t always come from complex instruments; sometimes, it’s the simple things that make a song truly stand out.

Theremin – ‘Good Vibrations’ (The Beach Boys)

The Beach Boys took a leap into the unknown when they included a theremin in ‘Good Vibrations’, one of their most beloved songs. This electronic instrument, known for its eerie and otherworldly sound, adds a layer of mystery to the track. Played without physical contact, the theremin’s haunting vibe fits perfectly with the song’s experimental feel.

Besides its novelty, the theremin’s inclusion in ‘Good Vibrations’ showed the Beach Boys’ willingness to explore new sounds. The result is a song that feels both familiar and fresh, a sun-soaked pop hit with a twist of the psychedelic.

Breaking Glass – ‘Gold Dust Woman’ (Fleetwood Mac)

Fleetwood Mac decided to take a more literal approach to adding an edge to ‘Gold Dust Woman’ by using the sound of breaking glass. This unconventional choice adds a raw, emotional layer to the song, mirroring the tumultuous feelings explored in the lyrics. The sound of shattered glass is so visceral, it cuts right through the melody, leaving a lasting impression.

It’s not just about the act of breaking glass; it’s about what that sound represents. In ‘Gold Dust Woman’, it symbolizes the breaking of illusions and the harsh realities that come crashing down. Fleetwood Mac proved that sometimes, the most impactful instrument is the one that captures real-life chaos and emotion.

Mellotron – ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’ (The Beatles)

The Beatles were no strangers to musical experimentation, and ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’ is a prime example of their innovative use of the mellotron. This keyboard-like instrument allowed them to incorporate orchestral and choir sounds into the song, giving it a lush, dreamy quality that’s instantly captivating. The mellotron’s ethereal tones blend perfectly with the psychedelic atmosphere of the track.

‘Strawberry Fields Forever’ feels like a journey into another world, and the mellotron is your guide. The Beatles’ use of this instrument paved the way for future bands to explore new sonic landscapes, proving that the boundaries of rock music are only limited by the imagination.