Back in Black - Riff by AC/DC - Note-for-Note Guitar Lesson

Our Back in Black - Riff by AC/DC guitar lesson on LickLibrary.com offers an in-depth, note-for-note breakdown of one of rock’s most legendary riffs. This lesson focuses on the core techniques that make the riff so unforgettable, including power chords, pull-offs, and string bending. Each technique is broken down, allowing guitarists to capture Angus Young’s dynamic style while building foundational skills essential for rock and blues playing. This lesson is taught by Danny Gill.

Technique Breakdown

Power Chords

Power chords form the backbone of Back in Black, giving the riff its solid, driving rhythm. Power chords are typically composed of just the root and fifth notes, creating a strong sound without major or minor tonalities. This simplicity is essential for the riff’s punchy, clean sound, making it instantly recognizable and impactful. Young’s use of power chords in this track delivers a bold rhythm that is easy to grasp yet incredibly powerful.

For guitarists, mastering power chords is a fundamental step in developing rhythm skills. Power chords are widely used in rock, punk, and metal, providing a deep, resonant sound that builds the foundation of countless songs. Practicing power chords helps guitarists build strength, speed, and coordination, making it easier to transition between chord shapes while maintaining rhythmic consistency. These skills are essential for creating a solid, energetic sound that’s perfect for rock and blues.

Pull-Offs

Pull-offs add a smooth, flowing element to the Back in Black riff, allowing for quick transitions between notes without re-picking each one. A pull-off is achieved by plucking a note and then “pulling off” a finger to allow a lower note to ring. This technique adds speed and fluidity to the riff, enhancing its natural flow and giving it a more intricate feel.

For guitarists, learning pull-offs improves finger control, strength, and accuracy. Practicing pull-offs helps build finger dexterity, making it easier to navigate complex riffs and solos. Pull-offs are essential for creating fluid phrases in both rhythm and lead playing, adding a dynamic range and expressiveness to any piece. In rock and blues, pull-offs contribute to the riff’s natural flow, making the music feel more connected and allowing for smoother transitions between notes.

String Bending

String bending adds a bluesy, expressive quality to Back in Black, giving the riff a distinctive vocal-like quality. String bending involves pushing the string across the fretboard to raise its pitch, adding emotion and depth to the note. Young’s use of string bending in this song emphasizes the blues influence in his playing and enhances the riff’s impact by adding a subtle yet powerful flair.

For guitarists, mastering string bending is essential for adding emotional depth to their playing. This technique builds finger strength and control, allowing players to vary pitch and add vibrato to bends. String bending is a staple in rock, blues, and jazz, where it can add intensity and nuance to solos and riffs. Practicing string bending helps guitarists develop greater control over dynamics and phrasing, allowing them to create more expressive music that resonates with listeners.

About Angus Young and His Influence

Angus Young, the iconic guitarist of AC/DC, is known for his powerful rhythm playing, energetic performances, and blues-inspired riffs. His work on Back in Black epitomizes his raw, punchy sound and demonstrates his mastery of rock essentials like power chords and string bending. Young’s playing style is both powerful and expressive, combining precision with energy, and his influence on rock guitarists worldwide is undeniable. Learning Back in Black offers guitarists insight into Young’s techniques, providing the skills needed to create impactful riffs that drive rock and blues music.

Guitar Techniques in Back in Black - Riff by AC/DC

• Power Chords
• Pull-Offs
• String Bending