Learn to Play "Pour Some Sugar on Me" by Def Leppard | Guitar Lesson

Step into the world of arena-filling rock with our note-for-note guitar lesson for “Pour Some Sugar on Me” by Def Leppard. As one of the band’s biggest hits from the chart-topping Hysteria album, this track blends gritty rock riffs with pop appeal and unforgettable hooks. It's an essential song for any guitarist looking to master tight rhythm playing, expressive lead embellishments, and layered textures.

Our LickLibrary guitar tutorial covers every guitar part from this timeless track, with expert guidance that breaks down the essential techniques used by Phil Collen and Steve Clark. This lesson focuses on four key techniques found throughout the song: palm muting, octaves, vibrato, and power chords. Each technique plays a crucial role in creating the driving, melodic, and anthemic sound of the track. Whether you're gigging in a cover band or sharpening your rhythm chops at home, this lesson delivers both the skills and the sound to elevate your rock playing. This lesson is taught by Jamie Humphries.

Song Breakdown & Techniques Covered

Palm Muting

One of the most defining rhythmic techniques in “Pour Some Sugar on Me” is palm muting. Used to tighten up the chugging verses and bridge sections, palm muting allows you to control the sustain and attack of each note, giving your rhythm playing clarity and groove. In this lesson, you’ll learn how to use palm muting effectively to emphasize downbeats, add percussive punch, and maintain tightness across driving riffs. It’s a vital skill for any rock rhythm guitarist, especially when locking in with drums and bass.

Octaves

The use of octaves in the main riff and pre-chorus sections adds melodic movement while staying rhythmically locked in. Octave playing allows you to emphasize melody without cluttering the frequency range, and it’s a great tool for cutting through a mix. You’ll learn how to fret and mute octaves cleanly, shift positions smoothly, and use them to accentuate dynamic transitions in a song. This technique also helps improve fretboard familiarity and control of muting unwanted strings.

Vibrato

Adding expression and attitude to lead phrases, vibrato is a standout technique used in fills and outro licks in “Pour Some Sugar on Me.” Vibrato gives sustained notes depth and personality, and is especially effective when used at the end of a phrase to create a vocal-like quality. In this lesson, you’ll explore how to develop consistent vibrato, apply it tastefully to both lead and rhythm lines, and use it to enhance your musical phrasing. It’s an essential element in shaping your personal tone and playing style.

Power Chords

Power chords are the backbone of this track, forming the heavy-hitting choruses and verse grooves that carry the song’s momentum. These simple two-note shapes deliver strong, punchy rhythms perfect for hard rock. You’ll learn how to fret and transition between power chords efficiently, apply dynamic strumming techniques, and use palm muting in combination for maximum impact. Whether you're jamming in a band or just practicing at home, mastering power chords is a must for building a solid rock rhythm foundation.

Why Learn “Pour Some Sugar on Me”?

“Pour Some Sugar on Me” is more than a stadium rock anthem—it's a lesson in rhythmic precision, tone shaping, and effective arrangement. Every part of the song is designed to serve the groove, support the vocals, and drive the energy forward. It’s a fantastic track to build foundational rock techniques, learn how to play in the pocket, and understand the importance of space and restraint in a guitar arrangement.

Our LickLibrary lesson provides a detailed walkthrough of every section, complete with slow demos, on-screen tab, and technique explanations. Whether you're a die-hard Def Leppard fan or a guitarist aiming to sharpen your rhythm chops, this song delivers everything you need to play with confidence, accuracy, and feel.

About the Guitarists: Phil Collen and Steve Clark

The guitar tones and parts in “Pour Some Sugar on Me” were crafted by Def Leppard’s iconic duo Phil Collen and Steve Clark. Together, they created a signature blend of slick production, catchy riffing, and layered harmonies that defined '80s rock. Steve Clark was known for his bluesy, melodic phrasing and tasteful simplicity, while Phil Collen brought technical prowess, clean execution, and modern edge. Their combined approach on this track shows how groove, dynamics, and arrangement can elevate a straightforward rock progression into an unforgettable anthem. Learning their parts will give you insight into crafting impactful guitar lines that are both accessible and effective.

Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Palm Muting
• Octave Melodies
• Vibrato
• Power Chords

Learn how to capture the sound and energy of one of the biggest rock hits of all time with our note-for-note “Pour Some Sugar on Me” guitar lesson. Master the techniques, lock into the groove, and bring the power of this iconic track to life on your fretboard.