Stiff Upper Lip by AC/DC

Overview of the Song and Lesson

"Stiff Upper Lip" by AC/DC is a masterclass in rock guitar, epitomising the raw, unrelenting energy that defines the band's sound. This track, from their 2000 album of the same name, blends tight grooves, punchy riffs, and searing lead work, making it a perfect study for guitarists eager to enhance their rock technique. This note-for-note guitar lesson breaks down every riff, chord, and lead passage, ensuring you'll master the intricacies of the song.

With its infectious rhythm and blues-inspired lead work, "Stiff Upper Lip" provides an excellent opportunity to delve into essential rock guitar techniques. Each lesson focuses on developing skills that enhance your overall playing, from rhythm tightness to lead dynamics. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitarists Behind the Song

At the heart of "Stiff Upper Lip" are Angus and Malcolm Young, the iconic sibling duo of AC/DC. Angus Young's fiery lead guitar work is a testament to his bluesy roots, intricate phrasing, and electrifying energy. Malcolm Young, the unsung hero of rhythm guitar, provides a rock-solid foundation with his punchy riffs and flawless timing. Together, they create a signature sound that has influenced generations of guitarists.

Angus Young’s ability to fuse emotion with technical prowess is legendary, making him a cornerstone for aspiring rock and blues guitarists. Malcolm’s precision and groove-focused playing showcase the importance of rhythm guitar in creating a powerful sonic backdrop.

Key Techniques Explored in the Lesson

Power Chords

The backbone of "Stiff Upper Lip," power chords provide the punchy, driving rhythm that AC/DC is renowned for. These simple, two-note chords are versatile and perfect for building strength and precision in your fretting hand.

Benefit: Learning power chords improves your ability to play tight, aggressive rhythm parts essential for rock and punk genres. Learn more about power chords.

Slides

The track features several dynamic slides, adding fluidity to both rhythm and lead parts. Sliding between chords and notes gives the song its bluesy feel and enhances transitions.

Benefit: Mastering slides improves your fretboard navigation and smoothness in shifting between positions. Learn more about slides.

String Bending

Angus Young’s lead work employs expressive string bends, adding emotion and dynamics to his solos. These bends are a hallmark of blues-influenced rock.

Benefit: Practicing string bending strengthens your fingers and improves pitch control, enabling you to add expressive flair to your playing. Learn more about string bending.

Vibrato

Angus’s use of vibrato brings life to sustained notes, adding depth and emotion. It’s a subtle yet crucial technique that defines his lead style.

Benefit: Vibrato enhances your tonal expressiveness and helps sustain notes with character. Learn more about vibrato.

Palm Muting

The tight, chugging rhythms in "Stiff Upper Lip" are achieved through precise palm muting. This technique is key to creating the song’s dynamic contrasts.

Benefit: Developing palm muting control sharpens your rhythm playing and allows for greater tonal variation. Learn more about palm muting.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

Angus’s lead lines feature seamless hammer-ons and pull-offs, contributing to the fluidity of his phrases. These techniques are essential for creating fast, melodic runs.

Benefit: Hammer-ons and pull-offs improve finger strength and speed, making your solos more fluid and dynamic. Learn more about hammer-ons and pull-offs.

Bluesy Bends

True to AC/DC’s blues-rock roots, the song incorporates soulful bends that emulate vocal-like expressions.

Benefit: Bluesy bends refine your ability to add character and emotion to your solos. Learn more about bluesy bends.

List of Guitar Techniques Used in the Lesson

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

Why Learn "Stiff Upper Lip"?

Studying this song gives you a comprehensive overview of core rock guitar techniques while immersing you in the sound of one of rock’s most influential bands. Whether you're sharpening your rhythm chops or adding finesse to your solos, this lesson will elevate your playing to new heights.