Let There Be Rock by AC/DC

AC/DC's "Let There Be Rock" is a high-octane anthem that has captivated guitarists for decades. Featuring one of the most iconic riffs in rock history, this song showcases the raw power and energy of guitarist Angus Young, making it a must-learn for players looking to master classic rock techniques. In this note-for-note lesson from Licklibrary.com, guitarists will dive into every riff, lick, and solo that Angus delivers in this hard-rocking masterpiece. Let’s break down the key techniques and benefits of learning them in this guitar lesson. Stuart Bull breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

Angus Young: A Rock Guitar Icon

Angus Young, the lead guitarist of AC/DC, is celebrated for his aggressive playing style, electrifying stage presence, and blues-rooted solos. His approach to guitar playing is deeply influenced by blues legends such as Chuck Berry, combined with his unique ability to inject hard rock attitude into his music. Angus’ riffs are simple yet powerful, and his solos are known for their high-energy vibrato and classic string bends. Learning his style allows players to access not only the technical aspects of rock guitar but also the emotive playing that defines some of rock's greatest moments.

Breaking Down the Guitar Techniques in "Let There Be Rock"

Power Chords

One of the foundational elements in "Let There Be Rock" is the use of power chords. These simple two-note chords are a staple in rock music and provide a driving, heavy sound that forms the backbone of the song. Learning to play power chords will enhance your rhythm guitar skills, allowing you to inject energy and precision into your playing.

String Bending

Angus Young’s solos are packed with string bending techniques, particularly bluesy bends, which add expression and flair to the guitar lines. Mastering this technique will improve your control over pitch and dynamics, making your solos sound more emotional and powerful. String bending is essential for replicating the soaring leads that Angus is known for.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Throughout the track, you’ll encounter plenty of hammer-ons and pull-offs, used to create smooth, fluid lead lines. These legato techniques allow for faster note execution and a more connected, lyrical sound in solos. By mastering hammer-ons and pull-offs, players can enhance their ability to play faster, more intricate lines without sacrificing tone.

Slides

Angus often employs slides between notes to transition smoothly and give a vocal-like quality to his playing. Incorporating slides into your playing adds a level of smoothness and allows for more expressive phrasing. This technique helps guitarists develop a more connected and fluid style, perfect for soloing.

Vibrato

Angus’ signature vibrato technique is another key feature in his playing, adding depth and character to sustained notes. Vibrato involves subtle pitch variation and is crucial for giving your solos an emotional, human-like quality. By mastering vibrato, you will enhance your expressiveness and make your playing stand out.

Palm Muting

The driving force of the rhythm guitar in this song also relies on palm muting. This technique involves lightly resting the side of your picking hand on the strings near the bridge to create a muted, percussive sound. Palm muting tightens up your rhythm playing, adding dynamics and punch to your riffs, perfect for keeping the groove tight during faster-paced sections.

Alternate Picking

To keep up with the fast-paced riffing and solos in "Let There Be Rock," alternate picking is crucial. This technique uses both downstrokes and upstrokes in a consistent alternating pattern, allowing you to play quicker and more efficiently. Mastering alternate picking will improve your speed and precision across all playing styles.

Open String Riffs

The driving rhythm of this song includes open string riffs, which provide a fuller, more resonant sound. Open string riffs take advantage of ringing open strings to create more dynamic and impactful rhythm sections. Learning this technique adds diversity to your rhythm playing and improves your timing and control.

Blues Influences

Angus Young’s playing in "Let There Be Rock" is heavily influenced by bluesy bends and pentatonic scales. These elements give the song a gritty, soulful quality that has made it a staple in rock music. Understanding how blues techniques blend with rock guitar will broaden your stylistic range and give your playing a more authentic, raw sound.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

• Master rhythm guitar: Power chords, palm muting, and open string riffs are essential tools for any rhythm guitarist. Learning these techniques will strengthen your rhythm playing and help you lock in with a drummer or band.
• Develop expressive soloing: String bending, vibrato, and slides are vital for emotive soloing. By practicing these techniques, you’ll be able to convey more emotion and energy in your leads, much like Angus Young does.
• Build speed and accuracy: Techniques like alternate picking, hammer-ons, and pull-offs are fundamental to playing fast, intricate licks. They will improve your picking accuracy and finger dexterity, allowing you to tackle more complex songs and solos.
• Expand your stylistic range: By incorporating blues-based techniques and rock fundamentals, you’ll develop versatility in your playing, enabling you to shift seamlessly between different genres and styles.

Guitar Techniques Used in "Let There Be Rock"

• Power Chords
• String Bending
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Slides
• Vibrato
• Palm Muting
• Alternate Picking
• Open String Riffs
• Bluesy Bends

This comprehensive lesson on "Let There Be Rock" will not only help you master one of AC/DC’s most iconic songs but also enhance your overall guitar skills by focusing on fundamental rock and blues techniques. Dive into the lesson and experience the raw energy of Angus Young’s playing!