AC/DC - Thunderstruck Riff

Take your rock guitar playing to the next level with the note-for-note breakdown of AC/DC’s legendary riff in “Thunderstruck”, exclusively at LickLibrary. This guitar lesson is a masterclass in technique, timing, and rock tone, focusing on the high-speed precision and control that have made this riff one of the most iconic in hard rock history.

Whether you're a budding shredder or a classic rock enthusiast, learning the “Thunderstruck” riff will not only sharpen your technical skills but also immerse you in the powerful, driving style of AC/DC's lead guitarist, Angus Young. Danny Gill breaks down this classic riff in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Riff: Why “Thunderstruck” Is a Must-Learn

“Thunderstruck,” released on AC/DC’s 1990 album The Razors Edge, kicks off with one of the most instantly recognisable riffs in rock. Built almost entirely around open-string alternate picking and hammer-ons/pull-offs, it’s a study in stamina and control, requiring laser-precise timing and fluid finger movement.

The seemingly simple nature of the riff masks a deeper level of technical prowess. Played entirely on the B string, the riff uses a combination of legato and strict picking discipline to maintain speed and accuracy—making it the perfect workout for developing your fretting hand agility and picking synchronisation.

Guitar Techniques Explored in This Lesson

Alternate Picking

The riff is a prime example of disciplined alternate picking. This technique involves striking the string with alternating down and upstrokes, which is crucial for maintaining speed and precision. It builds endurance in your picking hand and enhances rhythmic control.

Hammer-Ons

Throughout the riff, hammer-ons are used to create seamless note transitions without repeated picking. This technique strengthens your fretting fingers and helps create a fluid, connected sound—essential for executing fast melodic lines with minimal effort.

Pull-Offs

Pull-offs are used alongside hammer-ons to form legato phrases, allowing notes to ring out cleanly as your fingers articulate phrases in one smooth motion. Mastering pull-offs enhances finger independence and sustain.

Legato

The entire riff can be considered a showcase for legato playing, as notes are joined smoothly without interruption. Focusing on this technique helps eliminate choppy phrasing and improves your overall flow and musicality.

Open String Riffs

The consistent use of an open B string gives this riff its hypnotic, machine-gun effect. Open-string riffs allow players to maximise speed while keeping a hand anchored to a single position. Learning this technique boosts your ability to balance fretted and open notes for maximum impact.

Why Learn These Techniques?

Learning “Thunderstruck” provides far more than bragging rights. Each technique embedded in this riff builds a solid foundation for a wide range of rock and metal playing styles. Whether you're learning to increase your speed, improve finger coordination, or develop tighter rhythmic accuracy, this lesson delivers results. The focused practice on legato and alternate picking can transfer to countless other solos and riffs in your repertoire.

About the Guitarists Behind the Riff

The iconic riff in “Thunderstruck” was crafted by Angus Young, AC/DC’s lead guitarist and co-founder. Known for his electrifying stage presence and blues-rooted rock style, Angus’s playing combines raw power with refined technique. His mastery of simple yet effective riffs has inspired generations of guitarists.

Supporting him rhythmically is Malcolm Young, whose locked-in grooves and tight chord work provided the backbone of AC/DC’s sound. Together, the Young brothers developed one of rock’s most recognisable guitar pairings, blending energy and precision in every performance.

Their influence can be heard in the work of bands across the spectrum of rock and metal—from Airbourne to Guns N’ Roses—making learning their material a rite of passage for any serious guitarist.

Techniques Used in This Lesson

• Alternate Picking
• Hammer-Ons
• Pull-Offs
• Legato
• Open-String Riffs

With LickLibrary’s expert instruction, you’ll not only play the “Thunderstruck” riff exactly as Angus Young intended, but also develop the chops to apply these techniques across a wide range of songs and styles. Plug in, crank up the gain, and get ready to thunder through one of rock's most exhilarating riffs.