Hysteria by Def Leppard

Discover the magic of "Hysteria" by Def Leppard with our note-for-note guitar lesson, meticulously crafted to help you master the song's rich layers, expressive solos, and dynamic rhythms. A standout track from Def Leppard's legendary 1987 album Hysteria, this song encapsulates the polished production, melodic depth, and technical brilliance that defines the band. This guitar lesson delves into key techniques employed throughout the track, offering insights into the playing styles of Phil Collen and Steve Clark, whose work on the song continues to inspire guitarists worldwide. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitarists Behind "Hysteria"

Phil Collen and Steve Clark, the dynamic duo behind Def Leppard's distinctive guitar sound, played a crucial role in shaping the track. Known for their complementary styles—Collen's precise, technical playing and Clark's emotive, riff-driven approach—they combined elements of rock, pop, and metal into intricate harmonies and unforgettable solos. Their use of dual guitar harmonies and innovative techniques set a benchmark for rock guitarists and left an indelible mark on the music world.

Phil Collen

Collen's technical expertise shines in "Hysteria" through his seamless transitions and melodic solos. His ability to blend technical prowess with emotive phrasing has made him one of the most respected guitarists of his generation.

Steve Clark

Clark brought a raw, rhythmic edge to the band, infusing his parts with power and emotion. His riffs and harmonic structures added depth to "Hysteria," showcasing his knack for crafting memorable guitar lines.

Guitar Techniques Highlighted in the Lesson

Our lesson breaks down "Hysteria" into accessible sections, focusing on the following key techniques:

Dual Guitar Harmonies

The iconic harmony-driven intro and layered guitar parts in "Hysteria" exemplify dual guitar harmonies. This technique involves two guitars playing complementary melodic lines, creating a rich, textured sound. Learning this will enhance your understanding of harmony and improve your coordination when playing with another guitarist.

Palm Muting

The verses of "Hysteria" use palm muting to add a rhythmic, percussive quality to the guitar. By gently resting your palm on the strings near the bridge, you create a controlled, muted tone. Mastering this technique improves rhythm control and dynamic expression.

Slides

Slides are integral to the fluid and expressive feel of "Hysteria." These transitions between notes add a vocal-like quality to your playing. Practicing slides refines your finger control and enhances your ability to create smooth, melodic passages.

String Bending

The soulful bends in the solos bring a dynamic, emotive element to the track. String bending involves pushing the string to alter its pitch, a crucial skill for creating expressive guitar solos.

Vibrato

Phil Collen's controlled vibrato adds character and sustain to key notes in the song. This technique, achieved by oscillating the string while holding a note, is essential for adding warmth and individuality to your playing.

Arpeggios

The arpeggiated chord progressions in the chorus highlight the song’s melodic complexity. Arpeggios, where the notes of a chord are played sequentially, are an excellent way to improve finger independence and precision.

Hammer-Ons and Pull-Offs

The fluid solo passages rely heavily on hammer-ons and pull-offs. These techniques create smooth transitions between notes without repeated picking, improving your speed and legato phrasing.

Sustain

The use of sustain in "Hysteria" extends the emotional impact of certain notes, creating a lingering resonance. This technique allows notes to sing out longer, adding drama and depth to your solos.

Power Chords

The song’s driving rhythm section is built on power chords, which are fundamental to rock and metal. These simplified chords provide a powerful, full-bodied sound and are perfect for building dynamic progressions.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

• Improved Precision: Techniques like slides, string bending, and palm muting refine your finger control and accuracy.
• Enhanced Expression: Mastering vibrato and sustain helps you infuse your playing with emotion and character.
• Advanced Coordination: Practicing dual guitar harmonies and arpeggios develops your timing and synchronisation skills.
• Dynamic Playing: Techniques like hammer-ons, pull-offs, and power chords add versatility and depth to your guitar repertoire.

Guitar Techniques in This Lesson

• Vibrato
• Palm Muting
• Slides
• String Bending
• Arpeggios
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Sustain
• Power Chords
• Dual Guitar Harmonies

Master "Hysteria" by Def Leppard with this comprehensive lesson and elevate your guitar skills by learning these essential techniques. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, this song offers a perfect blend of challenge and reward.