What is a lick in music?

In music, a lick is a short musical phrase or pattern that is often repeated throughout a song or improvisation. Licks are typically melodic and rhythmic, and are often used as a way to add flair or embellishment to a musical piece. Licks can be played on nearly any instrument, but are especially common in guitar solos, saxophone solos, and other lead parts.

Some licks are iconic and instantly recognizable, such as the opening riff of "Smoke on the Water" by Deep Purple or the saxophone solo in "Baker Street" by Gerry Rafferty. Other licks are improvised on the spot by musicians during performances, adding a unique and spontaneous element to the music.

Licks can also be used as a form of musical shorthand, allowing musicians to communicate and collaborate with each other by quickly conveying a specific musical idea or motif. Overall, licks are an important and versatile musical tool that can help to define a musician's style and contribute to the overall sound of a piece of music.