Riff/rɪf/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Music Styles The term 'riff' is mostly used in jazz and rock music, but can also be found in other genres. Her piano riff gave the pop song a jazzy feel. Pro Tip 2/3Catchy Repetition Riffs are designed to be memorable and are often a song's most recognizable feature. The song's bass riff was so catchy, everyone hummed along. Pro Tip 3/3Not a Solo Unlike a solo, a riff is typically not the focus but rather a repeated background pattern. The saxophone riff played quietly behind the vocals.