Riffs

– Technically, Similar to Ostinatos

– but they are Often the Main Feature, Instead Being the Backdrop for Other Elements 

– it is a Fairly Short / Catchy and Repetitive Instrumental Part with a Hooky and Infectious Quality

– can be Compared to a Vocal Hook, but Generally Played on an Instrument

– a Riff can be Just a Few Notes or a Few Bars

– it is Often Heard in the Intro of a Song

– is Repeated Several Times throughout a Song

– Generally have a Strong and Distinct Rhythm

– in Rock Often a Guitar is Playing a Riff

– in Jazz Often the Sax or Horn is Playing a Riff

– Riffs can Get Interest if they are Integrated into the Song Form, then they Function as Ostinatos 

– it is also a Good Way to Think of Riff-Based Songwriting Instead Chord-Based Songwriting

– on Riff-Based Songs the Baseline Often Mimics for Doubles the Riff

– Many Songs Move Back & Forth Between a Riff and a Chordal Section