Fear of the Dark - Iron Maiden

Master Iron Maiden's Epic Classic Note for Note

Iron Maiden’s legendary track Fear of the Dark is an essential song for any guitarist looking to master the signature techniques of heavy metal. This note-for-note guitar lesson from Licklibrary.com will guide you through every nuance of this Iron Maiden classic, helping you capture the spirit of Dave Murray and Janick Gers’ playing styles. Whether you're working on improving your lead technique, tightening your rhythm playing, or developing your musical expression, this lesson will help you level up your skills while learning one of metal’s most anthemic songs. Andy James breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitarists Behind Fear of the Dark

Fear of the Dark features the twin guitar attack of Dave Murray and Janick Gers, two of Iron Maiden’s most celebrated guitarists. Murray is known for his fluid legato phrasing and expressive vibrato, while Gers brings a more aggressive and raw energy to the band’s sound. Their combined styles create the dynamic melodies and harmonised leads that define Iron Maiden’s signature sound. By studying their approach to this song, guitarists can gain a deeper understanding of how to craft melodic solos, use harmony effectively, and execute a variety of technical skills with precision and flair.

Techniques Covered in This Lesson

Galloping Rhythms

Iron Maiden’s music is synonymous with galloping rhythms, and Fear of the Dark is no exception. This technique, often played with strict alternate picking, gives the song its driving momentum. Mastering galloping rhythms will help you develop better timing and right-hand control, essential skills for playing fast-paced metal riffs.

Dual Guitar Harmonies

A staple of Iron Maiden’s sound, dual guitar harmonies create the epic and melodic feel heard in Fear of the Dark. These harmonised leads require precision and a strong understanding of intervals, making them a great exercise in ear training and fretboard knowledge.

Palm Muting

Palm muting is used throughout the song’s rhythm sections to add dynamic contrast and a tight, punchy feel. Learning to control your palm muting will not only make your rhythm playing sound more professional but also allow you to add greater articulation to your playing.

Legato Phrasing

Dave Murray is famous for his smooth, legato-driven solos. In Fear of the Dark, you’ll find phrases that rely heavily on hammer-ons and pull-offs to achieve a fluid sound. Practicing legato will improve your finger strength and allow you to play faster passages with less picking effort.

Vibrato

Expressive vibrato is a hallmark of Iron Maiden’s lead guitar work. Throughout the song, sustained notes are enhanced with deep, controlled vibrato. Developing a strong vibrato technique will add personality and emotion to your playing, making your solos stand out.

String Bending

Bends are frequently used in Fear of the Dark to add expression and intensity to the lead guitar lines. String bending is an essential technique for any lead guitarist, helping to make solos feel more vocal and expressive.

Power Chords

The song’s rhythm work relies heavily on power chords to create a thick and powerful sound. These simple yet effective chord shapes are a fundamental part of rock and metal guitar playing, making them crucial for any aspiring guitarist.

Arpeggiated Chord Progressions

The intro of Fear of the Dark features a haunting, arpeggiated chord progression that sets the song’s eerie mood. Learning to play arpeggiated chords cleanly will enhance your finger dexterity and picking accuracy, skills that are useful in both lead and rhythm playing.

Slides

Slides are used to connect notes smoothly and add a fluid feel to lead lines. Mastering slides will help you develop better fretboard movement and create more expressive phrasing in your solos.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Galloping Rhythms
• Dual Guitar Harmonies
• Palm Muting
• Legato
• Vibrato
• String Bending
• Power Chords
• Arpeggiated Chord Progressions
• Slides

With this detailed lesson, you'll be able to replicate the soaring melodies, intricate harmonies, and galloping rhythms that make Fear of the Dark one of Iron Maiden’s most celebrated songs. Whether you're a beginner looking to tackle your first metal anthem or an experienced guitarist refining your skills, this lesson provides everything you need to play Fear of the Dark like a pro. Start your journey with Licklibrary.com today and take your guitar playing to the next level!