Rock music often celebrates the power of guitars, but many unforgettable moments come from the keys. With Hammond organs, Moog synthesizers, and pianos, rock’s keyboardists have created solos that elevate songs into legendary territory.
Here are ten tracks where the keyboard solo delivers a defining moment.
“Baba O’Riley” – The Who
The sequencer-driven intro by Pete Townshend creates one of rock’s most iconic synth motifs. The swirling patterns set the mood and energy, shaping the song’s entire atmosphere.
“Bloody Well Right” – Supertramp
Rick Davies’ electric piano solo grooves with precision and style. Each note adds flair, driving the song forward while adding a layer of refined character.
“Foreplay/Long Time” – Boston
The “Foreplay” section bursts with organ energy and rapid-fire runs. Tom Scholz’s playing blends technical mastery with a bright, uplifting rock spirit before flowing into “Long Time.”
“Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding” – Elton John
The opening piano and synth arrangement moves through shifting moods and grand dynamics. Elton’s performance creates a sweeping journey that blends drama and excitement.
“Highway Star” – Deep Purple
Jon Lord’s organ solo blazes with classical-inspired lines and rock momentum. His Hammond work fills the track with a powerful, racing energy from start to finish.
“In the Cage” – Genesis
Tony Banks delivers a commanding keyboard passage with precise melodic runs and seamless transitions. The solo flows effortlessly through the song’s layered arrangement.
“Jump” – Van Halen
Eddie Van Halen’s synthesizer lead bursts with bold, uplifting energy. The bright, melodic lines set the song’s tone from the very first notes, blending rock power with a vibrant, anthemic spirit that defines the track’s identity.
“Light My Fire” – The Doors
Ray Manzarek’s extended organ solo explores vibrant improvisations with a jazz-inspired touch. Each phrase expands the song’s hypnotic, driving rhythm.
“Lucky Man” – Emerson, Lake & Palmer
Keith Emerson’s Moog solo rises with rich, evolving tones that create a sense of limitless space. The sound design and melodic phrasing lift the song into a grand finale.
“Roundabout” – Yes
Rick Wakeman’s intricate keyboard break sparkles with rhythmic precision and melodic clarity. The solo enhances the track’s vibrant, progressive energy.
Keyboard solos in rock bring a wide spectrum of color, texture, and energy. They can guide the listener through a song’s most memorable peaks and create unique musical landscapes that stay in the mind long after the track ends.