7 Classic Rock Songs with the Worst and Loudest Intros

The 1970s and 1980s brought us many classic rock songs, some of which feature intros that have drawn both praise and criticism. In some cases, the opening notes are so loud and repetitive that even loyal fans have complained. The following sections discuss seven tracks known for their overbearing beginnings.

You Shook Me All Night Long – AC/DC

“You Shook Me All Night Long” by AC/DC is one of the most famous rock songs of all time. The song begins with a hard-hitting guitar riff that immediately fills the room with energy. Many listeners recall the relentless pace of the opening chords and how they set a tone that some find overbearing.

The intro is marked by repeated riffs and booming drum beats that can seem excessive. Fans have often noted that the loud, rhythmic start dominates the first few minutes of the track. This aggressive opening has become both a hallmark and a source of irritation for some fans who prefer a subtler start.

Rock and Roll All Nite – Kiss

Kiss delivered “Rock and Roll All Nite” with an intro that blasts out with force. The song starts with a surge of electric guitar and pounding drums that are hard to ignore. This powerful opening sets up the stage for a night of party rock and has been played repeatedly at concerts.

The intro is famous for its continuous, driving beat that many critics found too repetitive. While the song became an anthem for live shows, some listeners felt that the loud start overshadowed the rest of the music. The intense opening remains a defining feature of Kiss’s performance style.

We’re Not Gonna Take It – Twisted Sister

“We’re Not Gonna Take It” by Twisted Sister begins with a burst of electric sound that grabs attention immediately. The opening is loud and brash, filled with hard rock guitar and booming drums that push the track forward. This aggressive start was meant to reflect defiance and energy.

The song’s intro quickly establishes a forceful mood that persists throughout. It uses repeated riffs and steady beats to create a sense of rebellion. Some fans enjoy the strong start, while others feel that it overwhelms the softer parts of the song, making the introduction one of the most noticeable aspects of the track.

Smoke on the Water – Deep Purple

“Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple is widely known for its instantly recognizable guitar riff. The song starts with a powerful and steady intro that has become one of the most imitated sounds in rock music. The opening sets a heavy tone and quickly draws the listener into the story behind the music.

The riff is repeated several times in the beginning, creating a sense of insistence that some listeners find too much. The loud and persistent intro has defined the track for decades, with many noting that its constant repetition can come off as overwhelming, even though it remains a key element of the song’s identity.

Hells Bells – AC/DC

“Hells Bells” by AC/DC opens with the sound of tolling bells followed by a surge of electric guitars. This introduction is both ominous and forceful, creating a dramatic atmosphere from the first note. The bells ring out repeatedly, setting the stage for the heavy rock sound that follows in the song.

The tolling sound is mixed with loud guitar bursts that continue without much variation. Critics have pointed out that the constant repetition in the intro makes it seem unvaried and harsh to some fans. The aggressive start became a signature of the song, marking it as one of the loudest openings in rock history.

I Love Rock ‘n Roll – Joan Jett & The Blackhearts

“I Love Rock ‘n Roll” by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts kicks off with a strong, assertive guitar line. The opening immediately captures attention with its clear and forceful sound. This beginning set the stage for the anthemic chorus that followed and quickly became a staple in rock playlists.

The intro is repeated several times before the vocals join in, making it feel overly persistent to some listeners. While the song achieved great success, its repetitive opening has been noted by critics as one of the least varied parts. The distinct, loud start defines the track and remains a topic of debate among fans.

Rebel Yell – Billy Idol

“Rebel Yell” by Billy Idol starts with a burst of electric guitar and energetic drum beats that forcefully introduce the song. The opening is marked by a high volume and repeated musical phrases that grab the listener’s attention right away. This style was intended to match the rebellious tone of the lyrics.

The loud and repeated sound of the intro creates an intense atmosphere that carries throughout the track. Many fans remember the beginning of “Rebel Yell” as overpowering, with the repetitive nature of the riff sometimes seen as a drawback. The distinct start of the song is remembered for its raw energy and unyielding presence.