17 Best Pop Songs With Guitar Solos: Melody and Fretwork

Hey there, music lovers and fellow DJs! Are you ready to embark on a sonic journey that combines the catchy hooks of pop with the electrifying thrill of guitar solos?

Look no further, because we’ve curated a list of the 17 best pop songs with guitar solos.

Get ready to crank up the volume and let these tunes ignite your passion for both genres!

Here are the best Pop songs with guitar solos that you can check out:

List Of Best Pop Songs With Guitar Solos

Best Pop songs with guitar solos in a list format:

1. “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin

Prepare to be transported to rock heaven with this timeless classic. Released in 1971 as part of Led Zeppelin’s untitled fourth album, this iconic track showcases Jimmy Page’s legendary guitar skills. Brace yourself for a legendary solo that has captivated music lovers for decades. (Record Label: Atlantic)

2. “Hotel California” by Eagles

Indulge in the hauntingly beautiful sounds of “Hotel California.” Released in 1976 as the title track of the album of the same name, this Eagles masterpiece features a mesmerizing guitar solo by Don Felder and Joe Walsh. Get lost in the captivating storytelling and melodic guitar work. (Record Label: Asylum)

3. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses

Unleash your inner rocker with this iconic Guns N’ Roses hit. Released in 1987 as part of their debut album, “Appetite for Destruction,” Slash’s explosive guitar solo takes center stage, adding an unforgettable edge to this pop-infused rock anthem. Prepare to air guitar along! (Record Label: Geffen)

4. “Layla” by Derek and the Dominos

Dive into the emotional depths of “Layla,” a timeless rock ballad released in 1970. Written by Eric Clapton and Jim Gordon, this song features an unforgettable guitar solo that resonates with raw passion. It remains a definitive masterpiece of Clapton’s career. (Record Label: Atco)

5. “November Rain” by Guns N’ Roses

Immerse yourself in the epic soundscape of “November Rain.” Released in 1991 as part of the “Use Your Illusion I” album, this power ballad showcases Slash’s melodic genius. The guitar solo towards the end elevates the song to majestic heights, leaving listeners in awe. (Record Label: Geffen)

6. “All Along the Watchtower” by Jimi Hendrix

Experience the guitar wizardry of Jimi Hendrix in this remarkable rendition of Bob Dylan’s classic. Released in 1968 as part of the “Electric Ladyland” album, Hendrix’s distinct playing style shines through with a soul-stirring guitar solo that stands the test of time. (Record Label: Reprise)

7. “Comfortably Numb” by Pink Floyd

Prepare for a sonic journey with Pink Floyd’s “Comfortably Numb.” Released in 1979 as part of “The Wall” album, David Gilmour’s emotionally charged guitar solo is an absolute masterpiece. It beautifully captures the song’s theme and leaves a lasting impact on every listener. (Record Label: Columbia)

8. “Sultans of Swing” by Dire Straits

Let the intricate guitar work of Mark Knopfler in “Sultans of Swing” sweep you off your feet. Released in 1978 as the band’s debut single and later featured on their self-titled album, this timeless hit showcases Knopfler’s unparalleled skill and creativity. It’s a true guitar lover’s delight. (Record Label: Vertigo)

9. “Black Magic Woman” by Santana

Experience the mesmerizing blend of Latin rhythms and Carlos Santana’s virtuosic guitar playing in “Black Magic Woman.” Released in 1970 as part of the “Abraxas” album, this song weaves a spellbinding atmosphere, with the guitar solo casting a spell of its own. (Record Label: Columbia)

10. “Johnny B. Goode” by Chuck Berry

Join the rock ‘n’ roll revolution with “Johnny B. Goode.” Released in 1958, this iconic song by Chuck Berry laid the foundation for future guitar solos to come. Its infectious energy, combined with Berry’s nimble guitar playing, makes it an everlasting gem. (Record Label: Chess)

11. “Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix

Get lost in the psychedelic soundscape of “Purple Haze” by Jimi Hendrix. Released in 1967, this groundbreaking track features Hendrix’s revolutionary guitar playing, including an electrifying solo that pushed the boundaries of music. Brace yourself for an otherworldly experience. (Record Label: Track)

12. “Satisfaction” by The Rolling Stones

Indulge in the timeless satisfaction that comes with The Rolling Stones’ iconic hit. Released in 1965, this song revolutionized rock music. Keith Richards’ gritty guitar riff and solo became an instant classic, elevating the song to legendary status. Get ready to rock out! (Record Label: Decca)

13. “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” by The Beatles

Delve into the poetic beauty of George Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.” Released in 1968 as part of the “White Album,” this masterpiece showcases Harrison’s profound songwriting and features an emotionally charged guitar solo by Eric Clapton. It’s a timeless gem from the Fab Four. (Record Label: Apple)

14. “You Really Got Me” by The Kinks

Get ready to unleash your inner rock ‘n’ roller with “You Really Got Me” by The Kinks. Released in 1964, this song is a true guitar-driven anthem. Dave Davies’ groundbreaking distorted guitar solo helped pave the way for the future of rock music. It’s a true classic. (Record Label: Pye)

15. “Sunshine of Your Love” by Cream

Bask in the warm, fuzzy tones of Cream’s “Sunshine of Your Love.” Released in 1967 as part of the “Disraeli Gears” album, Eric Clapton’s bluesy guitar solo is nothing short of legendary. This song remains a quintessential example of how a guitar can make a pop song unforgettable. (Record Label: Reaction)

16. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey

Embrace the anthemic power of “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey. Released in 1981 as part of the “Escape” album, Neal Schon’s soaring guitar solo adds an extra layer of magic to this beloved pop-rock anthem. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of hope and resilience. (Record Label: Columbia)

17. “American Woman” by The Guess Who

Feel the rock ‘n’ roll energy of “American Woman” by The Guess Who. Released in 1970 as a single and later included on their “American Woman” album, this song features Randy Bachman’s explosive guitar solo, driving the track to new heights of power and rebellion. (Record Label: RCA)

Fun Facts: Top Pop Tunes With Guitar Solos

“Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin

• “Stairway to Heaven” is often regarded as one of the greatest rock songs of all time and remains a staple in classic rock radio.
• The song’s iconic guitar solo was improvised by Jimmy Page during the recording session.
• Despite its immense popularity, Led Zeppelin never released “Stairway to Heaven” as a single.

“Hotel California” by Eagles

• The famous guitar solo in “Hotel California” was played by Don Felder and Joe Walsh, with each musician contributing different sections.
• The song’s lyrics have sparked numerous interpretations and debates, leading to various theories about its meaning.
• “Hotel California” won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1978 and has been covered by countless artists.

“Sweet Child o’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses

• The iconic guitar riff that opens “Sweet Child o’ Mine” was actually created as a warm-up exercise by Slash.
• Initially, the band didn’t consider “Sweet Child o’ Mine” to be a potential hit, but it went on to become Guns N’ Roses’ first and only number-one single.
• The guitar solo in the song is known for its melodic and emotional quality, showcasing Slash’s distinctive style.

“Layla” by Derek and the Dominos

• “Layla” was inspired by Eric Clapton’s unrequited love for Pattie Boyd, who was married to his friend George Harrison at the time.
• The memorable guitar outro of the song was performed by Duane Allman, who guested on the recording and added his slide guitar expertise.
• Despite its initial commercial reception, “Layla” later gained widespread recognition and is now considered one of rock music’s greatest love songs.

“November Rain” by Guns N’ Roses

• “November Rain” is one of Guns N’ Roses’ longest songs, clocking in at over eight minutes.
• The music video for “November Rain” is notably epic and cost over $1.5 million to produce, making it one of the most expensive music videos ever made.
• The song’s guitar solo, performed by Slash, is often hailed as one of the greatest guitar solos in rock history.

Get ready to rock out with these 17 pop songs featuring unforgettable guitar solos!

Let the magic of music take you on a journey through timeless classics and legendary performances.

Stay tuned for more musical adventures!

Thanks for reading.

TBone