The majority of the music we listen to today is driven by the lyrical content of the song. The music behind many of these songs, however, is simple and uninspiring, merely accenting what is being said. Every so often, an artist will break away from the usual formula for making a song to explore the challenge of creating a compelling piece driven entirely by music. What follows are my favorite 5 instrumental songs out of the artists I have in my iTunes.
5. Spanish Fly - Van Halen 
I chose this song as #5 because of the beautiful sound of the acoustic guitar and the simplicity of having only one instrument. Van Halen plays swiftly with incredible precision. The variety of playing techniques he fits into a one minute song is remarkable. Check out an inspiring rendition of "Spanish Fly" in this YouTube video.
4. This Book is a Movie - Spoon
"This Book is a Movie" is solid song from the indie-rock group Spoon. In this song, Spoon brings out a unique timbre in each of their instruments such as the guitar that sounds like steeple bells. The piece starts with a couple hits of 'the bell' that seem to place us in the twilight, a couple of hours before sunrise. From here, the listener is hooked and the song takes off into the night.
3. Session - Linkin Park
"Session" is an awesome song by the alternative metal group Linkin Park. Just listen to it, and you'll be impressed. As a drummer, I love listening to rhythms that are so asymmetric like this one. "Session" was even nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rock Instrumental Performance in 2003.
2. #34 - Dave Matthews Band
"#34" is a light and dreamy song that soothes the listener. I'm not sure where the title of the song comes from, although it was released as the 34th song on "Under the Table and Dreaming." (The CD only had 12 real songs, but "#34" was preceded by 22 tracks of silence.) According to Wikipedia, "#34" was actually performed with lyrics on several occasions.
1. Eternal - P.O.D.
In "Eternal", P.O.D. takes the listener through a compelling journey with a sound that is dynamic the entire way through. A story is revealed through an amazing blend of acoustic and electric guitars. After 6:19 of pure bliss, P.O.D. leaves you wanting more.
I hope you've enjoyed my instrumental song round-up. Let me know what you think about my selections in the comments section! Maybe you have some favorite instrumental songs of your own? Well, thanks for reading, and have a great day!