Breaking The Law (riff) - Judas Priest

Learn One of the Most Iconic Riffs in Heavy Metal

Judas Priest’s Breaking The Law is one of the most recognisable and influential metal songs of all time. The riff, driven by powerful rhythms and sharp melodic phrasing, is an excellent piece for guitarists looking to develop essential metal techniques. Our Licklibrary lesson takes you note for note through this legendary riff, breaking down each technique so you can play it just like the masters. Andy James breaks down this classic riff in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Guitarists Behind the Song

Judas Priest’s twin guitar attack, featuring Glenn Tipton and K.K. Downing, defined the sound of heavy metal. Their signature style of harmonised leads, aggressive picking, and precise rhythm playing became a blueprint for countless metal bands. Tipton, known for his fluid and melodic phrasing, combined with Downing’s raw, energetic approach, creates the perfect balance of technicality and attitude. Together, they shaped the sound of Breaking The Law and influenced generations of guitarists.

Techniques Covered in This Lesson

Power Chords

Power chords are the backbone of this riff, providing the heavy, driving force behind the song. These two- or three-note chords are easy to play but pack a punch, making them essential for any rock or metal guitarist. Learning to execute them cleanly with proper muting will enhance your rhythm playing significantly.

Palm Muting

Palm muting adds definition and attack to the riff, giving it a tight and controlled feel. This technique is crucial for metal rhythm playing, allowing you to create a percussive and punchy tone while maintaining clarity in your chords and single-note riffs.

Slides

Slides are used in the riff to add fluidity and movement between notes. Mastering slides will help improve your fretboard navigation and allow for more expressive phrasing in your playing.

Syncopated Rhythms

Judas Priest is known for their precision in timing, and Breaking The Law utilises syncopated rhythms that add groove and drive to the riff. Understanding syncopation will improve your sense of timing and make your playing more dynamic.

String Bending

While subtle in this riff, string bending is an essential skill for rock and metal players. It adds expression and attitude to your playing, allowing you to create vocal-like inflections on the guitar.

Why Learning This Riff Will Improve Your Playing

Learning Breaking The Law offers more than just the ability to play an iconic song—it builds foundational skills that are critical for metal and rock guitar. Mastering this riff will:

• Strengthen your rhythm playing by focusing on precision and timing.
• Improve your palm muting for a tighter, more aggressive sound.
• Develop your fretting hand dexterity with slides and power chord transitions.
• Enhance your picking accuracy through syncopated rhythms.
• Boost your expression with techniques like string bending.

Guitar Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Slides
• Syncopated Rhythms
• String Bending

Whether you’re a beginner looking to expand your technique or a seasoned player refining your metal chops, this lesson will take your playing to the next level. Master the riff, and channel the power of Judas Priest!