Pour Some Sugar On Me by Def Leppard

Pour Some Sugar On Me by Def Leppard is an iconic rock anthem that captures the electrifying energy of the 1980s. Licklibrary's detailed note-for-note guitar lesson takes you through the song's intricate riffs, soaring solos, and hard-hitting rhythms. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate player, this lesson equips you with the tools to master the song and enhances your understanding of essential rock guitar techniques. Jamie Humphries breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitarists Behind the Song

Def Leppard's Phil Collen and Steve Clark were pivotal in crafting the guitar work on Pour Some Sugar On Me. Known for their dynamic interplay and melodic sensibilities, their contributions helped define the band’s signature sound. Collen’s precise technique and Clark’s raw creativity blend harmoniously to deliver dual guitar harmonies, powerful chord progressions, and unforgettable solos. Their influence extends beyond this song, as they are celebrated for shaping rock guitar playing during the 1980s and beyond.

Key Techniques Featured in the Lesson

This lesson focuses on several techniques showcased in Pour Some Sugar On Me. Each technique is broken down for clarity, with practical guidance to improve your guitar-playing skills.

1. Power Chords

Power chords are the backbone of the song’s rhythm section. These versatile shapes provide a punchy and dynamic foundation. Mastering power chords improves your ability to play rock and metal riffs and enhances your rhythm guitar playing.

2. Palm Muting

Palm muting is crucial for creating the tight, rhythmic chugs found in the verses. This technique helps you control string resonance, adding percussive texture and intensity to your playing.

3. String Bending

The expressive guitar solos in this song utilise string bending to achieve vocal-like phrasing. Practicing bends improves your ear for pitch and adds emotion to your solos.

4. Vibrato

Adding vibrato to bent notes creates a signature rock guitar sound, as demonstrated in this song. Vibrato develops your control over sustained notes and gives your playing a polished, professional tone.

5. Slides

Slides are used to connect notes fluidly and add dramatic flair to the solos. This technique enhances your transitions between positions and boosts your overall speed and accuracy.

6. Dual Guitar Harmonies

The layered guitar parts in the chorus exemplify dual guitar harmonies. These harmonies are essential for players who want to understand how to collaborate effectively with other musicians and create rich, layered sounds.

7. Pick Slides

Pick slides contribute to the gritty, edgy vibe of the song. This technique is perfect for adding a raw, aggressive texture to your playing, especially in rock and metal genres.

8. Pinched Harmonics

The distinctive squeals in the song come from pinched harmonics. Learning this technique helps you add dynamic accents and a unique tonal quality to your lead playing.

9. Open String Riffs

The song’s riffs often incorporate open strings to create a driving rhythm. Practicing open string riffs builds timing and coordination, making your rhythm playing more solid and energetic.

10. Syncopated Rhythms

The syncopation in the rhythm parts adds groove and complexity. By mastering syncopated rhythms, you’ll improve your timing and ability to play compelling, dynamic parts.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

Learning the techniques in Pour Some Sugar On Me offers more than just mastering a classic song. These skills enhance your overall guitar playing, allowing you to:

• Build a stronger foundation in rhythm and lead guitar.
• Add dynamics and expressive elements to your solos.
• Improve timing, coordination, and musicality.
• Develop the ability to collaborate with other musicians through harmonised parts.

Each technique is broken down in the lesson, ensuring you understand how and when to use it effectively in your own playing.

List of Guitar Techniques Used in the Lesson

• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Slides
• Dual Guitar Harmonies
• Pick Slides
• Pinched Harmonics
• Open String Riffs
• Syncopated Rhythms

Explore these techniques in detail with Licklibrary’s expertly crafted guitar lesson, and bring the energy of Def Leppard’s Pour Some Sugar On Me to life in your playing!