20 Songs With Ostinato

Songs with ostinato are characterized by a repeating musical phrase. This repeating phrase may be in the form of a melody, bassline, or rhythm. In a composition, ostinato can create a sense of forward movement or energy.

In this article, I will explore 20 well-known songs that make use of ostinato. They span a wide range of genres, including classical, rock, pop, and many more. If you’re not familiar with ostinato, this list will help you to become familiar with the concept.

1. “Ice, Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice

Starting this list is a 90s hip-hop classic. The main ostinato in this song is the bassline, which repeats throughout the track. The other ostinatos in the song are the drumbeat and the melody.

It was released in 1990 on the “To the Extreme album”. It’s considered a highly popular track and is still often played today.

2. “Billy Jean” by Michael Jackson

The next song is by the King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson. The main ostinato in “Billy Jean” is the bassline, which is iconic in its own right.

It was released in 1983 as part of Jackson’s “Thriller” album. Jackson fans will know that this isn’t the only song on the album with an ostinato, as “Beat It” features a similar bassline.

3. “U Can’t Touch This” by MC Hammer

Another song that prominently features an ostinato is MC Hammer’s “U Can’t Touch This.” The song is catchy and unforgettable, and it’s easy to see how the ostinato contributes to the overall feel of the track. It’s one of the most popular songs of all time with a sound that is instantly recognizable to many.

4. “Pompeii” by Bastille

Bastille’s “Pompeii” is another great example of how an ostinato can be used in a pop song. The main riff in the chorus is catchy and it’s easy to see how it adds to the overall atmosphere of the track.

This is one of the most popular songs of recent years, with over 600 million views on Youtube. It was released in 2013 as part of the “Bad Blood” album.

5. “Bittersweet Symphony” by The Verve

Next on the list is “Bittersweet Symphony” by The Verve. This song is a bit different from the others on this list, as it features an orchestral ostinato that is played throughout the entire track.

It’s a beautiful piece of music that has been covered by many artists over the years. The song was released in 1997 as part of the “Urban Hymns” album.

6. “Dark Horse” by Katy Perry

Katy Perry’s “Dark Horse” is another great example of how an ostinato can be used in a pop song. It was released in 2013 and since then, it has been one of her most popular songs.

It features Jessie J, making it a successful collaboration between these two artists. The song has over 3 billion views on Youtube, making it one of the most popular around.

7. “Stayin’ Alive” by N-Trance

Next on the list is “Stayin’ Alive” by N-Trance. This song was released in 1995 and it became an instant hit.

It’s a cover of the Bee Gees track of the same name, and it features an ostinato that is played throughout the entire song. The song has been used in many movies and tv shows over the years.

8. “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” is a prime example of an ostinato. The main riff is played on electric guitar and is one of the most iconic riffs in popular music.

It was released in 1972 as part of their “Talking Book” album. This now has over 150 million views on Youtube and can be streamed on all music platforms out there.

9. “Loser” by Beck

Next on the list is Beck’s “Loser.” The song was released in 1994 as part of his album, “Mellow Gold”.

The ostinato in this song is played on the acoustic guitar and is a key part of the song’s overall sound. It has been covered by popular artists like the Glee cast over the years.

10. “Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen

The next song is a classic by the band Queen. The song is called “Another One Bites the Dust” and it features a very famous beat that can be recognized almost immediately.

This beat is an example of an ostinato, which is a repeating musical phrase. It has been awarded and nominated for many awards, including Grammy awards.

11. “Boys and Girls” by Blur

Blur’s “Boys and Girls” is a song with an infectious beat that will likely get stuck in your head after just a few listens. It was released in 1994 as part of the “Parklife” album. This song now has over 43 million views on Youtube and can be streamed on all music platforms out there.

12. “Duel of the Fates” by John Williams

“Duel of the Fates” is a song composed by John Williams for the film Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace. This epic song features a choir and an orchestra, and it builds up to a very intense climax.

It is one of the most popular songs from the Star Wars franchise and it has been covered by multiple artists over the years.

13. “Livin’ La Vida Loca” by Ricky Martin

Next on the list is “Livin’ La Vida Loca” by Ricky Martin. This song was released in 1999 and it quickly became a worldwide hit. It topped the charts in many countries and won multiple awards.

The beat of this song is very catchy and it features an ostinato throughout the song. This is a disco favorite that will surely get you up and dancing.

14. “Stand by Me” by Ben E. King

Ben E. King’s “Stand by Me” is a classic example of an ostinato. The main ostinato in the song is the bassline, which repeats throughout the entirety of the song.

The other instruments in the song also make use of ostinati, most notably the piano and guitar. Even the lyrics are repetitive, with the phrase “stand by me” being repeated over and over again.

15. “Mambo No. 5” by Lou Bega

Next on the list is “Mambo No. 5” by Lou Bega. The main ostinato in the song is the titular “mambo no. 5” melody, which is repeated numerous times throughout the song.

It’s a disco-infused track that’s sure to get your feet moving. This now has over 400 million views on Youtube and can be streamed on all music platforms out there.

16. “Drivers License” by Olivia Rodrigo

This next song is a more recent one, and it’s by none other than Olivia Rodrigo. “Drivers License” has become a massive hit all over the world, and it’s not hard to see why.

The main ostinato in the song is the piano melody, which is repeated throughout the song. It has been streamed almost 400 million times on Youtube.

17. “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi

Next on the list is “Livin’ on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi. This is another classic hit that’s sure to get stuck in your head. The song is built around a repeating guitar riff, which creates an infectious groove.

The lyrics are also very catchy, and the message of the song is relatable to many people. It was released in 1986 as part of the “Slippery When Wet” album.

18. “Tomorrow Never Knows” by The Beatles

The Beatles’ “Tomorrow Never Knows” is another song with a strong ostinato. The main riff is played on a loop throughout the song, and it’s accompanied by some psychedelic sound effects.

The result is a trippy, mind-bending experience that’s sure to stay with you long after the song is over. It was released in 1966 on their “Revolver” album.

19. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson

Next on the list is another song by Michael Jackson, “Thriller.” This song is a true classic, and it’s one of the best-selling singles of all time.

The lyrics are also very creepy but catchy, and the music video is iconic. It was released in 1982 as part of the album of the same title.

20. “Aerodynamic” by Daft Punk

Finishing the list is “Aerodynamic” by Daft Punk. This song is a true electronic masterpiece, and it features a catchy guitar riff that’s sure to stay with you.

The song also has a great beat and some amazing synth work. It was released in 2001 as part of their album “Discovery”.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, a list of songs with ostinato. These songs are all classics in their own right, and they make great additions to your playlist. Whether you’re looking for something to dance to or just want to enjoy a catchy tune, these songs will not disappoint.