Name (and link to) a song that is instantly recognizable with the very first few notes

Cafe Society
41

But listening to those clips makes me wonder… what if the notes or chords were played on just a piano. No recognizable voices, guitar tones or effects, arrangements, or orchestrations?

42

I agree with the basic idea you express. There are probably pianists who could generate a sound that approximates the non-piano sounds on many of these songs, but as a general rule, I’d think the identifiable hook in most cases is dependent on some gimmick outside the actual music.

43

Here’s the best I can do.

44

This is more recent that some, of course…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTWKbfoikeg

45

That one wins the thread; but this one’s almost as iconic.

Another contribution:

46
47

nm

48

I am pretty sure this wasn’t done yet: - YouTube

49

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYmIKcP7Nbc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1PNvopXjbg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zUwEIt9ez7M

50

I misidentified that one, thought it was this. :slight_smile:
mmm

51

Here is one with just a sound effect.
mmm

52

Yup. I heard the note in my head immediately upon reading the title here. Good job. As you said: unmistakable.

53

mmm - me too. Is it the same tone I wonder?

54
55

Here are three that are iconic:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCmUhYSr-e4
56

I wouldn’t call that a gimmick, though. That is the actual music.

57

I can name that song in two notes. Name that tune!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=59K2kF6o9Tk

58

Wouldn’t obscure this one: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yteMugRAc0
’

59

I couldn’t identify any of them … even listening to the entire song. :smack:
I thought “hits” referred to the 1960’s or early 70’s. Or even Big Band tunes from the 30’s and 40’s.

60

Do not disrespect the '50s.