Blackout – Scorpions

“Blackout” by the Scorpions is a high-octane hard rock anthem that showcases the band’s signature blend of melodic hooks, aggressive riffs, and searing guitar solos. With this note-for-note guitar lesson from Licklibrary, you’ll learn how to master every powerful riff, dynamic solo, and expressive technique that defines this track. Designed for guitarists who want to push their skills to the next level, this lesson breaks down every element of the song in meticulous detail, offering invaluable insights into both rhythm and lead guitar work. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and Its Guitar Style

Released in 1982, Blackout is the title track of one of the Scorpions' most influential albums. The song kicks off with a chugging riff that demands precision and control, setting the tone for a series of high-energy guitar passages. The track balances melodic sensibility with hard-hitting aggression, making it a perfect study piece for intermediate to advanced players looking to develop a classic metal edge.

The rhythm guitar parts in Blackout are tight and punchy, making use of palm muting, power chords, and syncopated rhythms. The lead guitar sections showcase expressive vibrato, fast alternate picking, and screaming bends, all of which are essential for capturing the raw emotion and technicality of the performance.

About the Guitarist – Matthias Jabs

Blackout features the virtuosic playing of Matthias Jabs, who joined Scorpions in 1978 and helped define their melodic metal sound throughout the '80s. Known for his precise technique and innovative use of effects and whammy bar tricks, Jabs brought a fresh energy to the band’s sound. His solos in Blackout are a masterclass in taste and technique—fluid, fast, and packed with personality.

Jabs' influence reaches beyond hard rock. His style blends classic rock phrasing with modern shredding, making him a touchstone for guitarists who love both melody and firepower. Studying his work in this song will give you a better understanding of rock phrasing, melodic development, and how to construct solos that speak.

Technique Breakdown

Alternate Picking

The song’s main riffs and solos rely heavily on alternate picking, allowing for speed and accuracy. Learning this technique will improve your picking hand control and help you maintain a consistent rhythm, especially when playing fast single-note passages.

Palm Muting

Throughout Blackout, palm muting is used to add percussive dynamics to the rhythm sections. This technique is essential for creating that tight, chunky metal tone and for emphasising rhythmic precision in riff-based playing.

Power Chords

Power chords form the backbone of the song's rhythm guitar work. They're a staple of rock and metal playing, providing a strong harmonic foundation without being overly complex—perfect for high-gain clarity and punch.

String Bending

The expressive lead guitar lines in Blackout are full of string bending and bluesy bends, allowing notes to wail and sing with emotion. Mastering bends will enhance your soloing vocabulary and help you better convey feeling in your playing.

Vibrato

Jabs’ vibrato adds character and sustain to his lead lines. A controlled, wide vibrato can elevate a simple note into something truly expressive. Learning this technique gives your playing personality and depth.

Pinched Harmonics

Sharp, squealing pinched harmonics pop up throughout the solos, adding edge and excitement. Learning how to control these harmonics gives your solos a professional, high-energy flair that cuts through the mix.

Whammy Bar Tricks

One of Matthias Jabs’ signatures is his creative use of whammy bar tricks. In Blackout, they add a wild, unpredictable element to the solos and transitions. Learning this gives you the tools to incorporate expressive, pitch-based effects into your own playing.

Double Stop Bends

Double stop bends feature prominently in the solo sections. This technique allows you to harmonise your bends, creating rich, dynamic textures. It’s great for building your strength and control while adding flair to your lead playing.

Trills and Hammer-ons

Speedy trills and hammer-ons are used in various fills and solo lines, giving the performance a fluid, legato feel. These techniques help with finger dexterity and can make your solos smoother and more connected.

Why Learn This Song?

Studying Blackout is not just about learning another great classic rock song—it's about building a toolkit of professional-level guitar techniques that you can apply to your own music. You'll develop better timing, more expressive phrasing, and deeper musical confidence.

Each section of the song provides an opportunity to refine your skills and learn new ones. From riffing to soloing, this track offers a complete workout for any guitarist looking to enhance their technical ability while staying rooted in musicality.

Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Alternate Picking
• Palm Muting
• Power Chords
• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Pinched Harmonics
• Whammy Bar Tricks
• Double Stop Bends
• Trills
• Hammer-ons

Take your rock playing to the next level by diving into Blackout with Licklibrary’s detailed guitar lesson. Not only will you be able to play this classic Scorpions track note for note, but you'll also sharpen the skills that make great guitarists stand out.