Iron Man (Riff) by Black Sabbath
Mastering the Legendary "Iron Man" Riff
Few riffs in rock history are as instantly recognisable as "Iron Man" by Black Sabbath. This classic track, featured on their 1970 album Paranoid, showcases Tony Iommi’s masterful ability to craft heavy, melodic, and impactful guitar lines. Our note-for-note guitar lesson will teach you how to play this iconic riff while focusing on key techniques that will enhance your overall playing ability.
By learning the "Iron Man" riff, you’ll develop essential rock and metal guitar techniques, including power chords, palm muting, string bending, and slides. Each technique covered in this lesson not only helps you perfect this legendary riff but also improves your ability to play countless other classic rock and metal songs. Andy James breaks down this classic riff in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.
Techniques Used in the "Iron Man" Riff
Power Chords
The foundation of heavy rock and metal, power chords deliver a thick and aggressive sound. In "Iron Man," these are used to create a strong and driving rhythm. Mastering power chords improves your ability to play rock riffs with clarity and punch.
Palm Muting
Palm muting adds a percussive, chugging feel to your playing, giving riffs more definition and control. This technique helps tighten up your rhythm and is essential for playing heavy music effectively.
String Bending
The main riff of "Iron Man" includes bends that add expression to the melody. Learning string bending helps develop finger strength and control, allowing you to add emotional depth to your playing.
Learn more about String Bending
Slides
Sliding between notes gives the "Iron Man" riff its smooth, fluid movement. Mastering slides improves your fretboard navigation and adds a professional touch to your phrasing.
Pick Slides
A pick slide (or scrape) creates a dramatic and aggressive sound, which is often used in rock and metal for emphasis. Learning this technique enhances your ability to add flair and attitude to your playing.
Tony Iommi – The Mastermind Behind the Riff
Tony Iommi, the guitarist of Black Sabbath, is often credited with pioneering heavy metal guitar. His dark, heavy riffs and unique playing style, developed after losing the tips of two fingers in an accident, helped shape the sound of metal. Iommi's use of power chords, alternate tunings, and expressive vibrato set him apart and influenced countless guitarists, including James Hetfield (Metallica), Zakk Wylde, and Slash.
By studying "Iron Man", you’re not just learning a song – you’re absorbing the DNA of heavy metal guitar playing, straight from one of the genre’s greatest innovators.
Techniques Used in the Lesson
By mastering these techniques, you'll not only be able to play "Iron Man" with confidence but also build the skills necessary to tackle many other classic rock and metal riffs. Dive into our lesson today and bring this heavy metal masterpiece to life on your guitar!
About The Tutor
Tutor Profile
Andy James
Andy James needs little introduction as one of the most popular LickLibrary tutors, respected the world over for his unbelievable technical skills and teaching material. "As a player Andy has released a string of solo albums, the last being 2012's ""Andy James"" on Transcend Music which was met with huge...