intro explained
formIN-troh
A detailed guide to the opening section of a musical composition.
The intro (introduction) is the opening section of a song or composition, establishing the mood, key, tempo, and style before the vocals or main theme begin. In popular music, intros range from a few seconds to extended instrumental passages. A strong intro grabs the listener's attention — iconic intros like the opening guitar riff of "Smoke on the Water" or the piano figure of "Clocks" are instantly recognisable. In classical music, a slow introduction often precedes a fast movement, as in many of Haydn's and Beethoven's symphonies. Jazz standards typically begin with a brief intro that establishes the key and tempo before the head. In the streaming era, intros have shortened dramatically, as listeners skip tracks within seconds if not immediately engaged.