Hells Bells by AC/DC

Step into the thunderous world of hard rock guitar with our note-for-note breakdown of "Hells Bells" by AC/DC. This classic track from the legendary Back in Black album delivers more than just one of rock’s most iconic intros—it’s a masterclass in rhythm precision, dynamic riffing, and rock-solid guitar technique. In this LickLibrary lesson, we guide you through every section of the song, highlighting key guitar techniques that will not only sharpen your playing but deepen your understanding of classic rock guitar. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Guitarists: Angus and Malcolm Young

"Hells Bells" showcases the powerful guitar interplay between Angus Young and Malcolm Young, two of the most influential guitarists in rock history. Angus, the lead guitarist, is renowned for his high-energy solos, biting tone, and expressive phrasing. Malcolm, often underrated, was the backbone of AC/DC’s sound with his tight, percussive rhythm work and minimalist approach. Together, they created a formidable dynamic—Angus bringing the fire, and Malcolm supplying the foundation. Studying this song gives you insight into how rhythm and lead guitar roles can complement each other perfectly.

Song Structure and What You’ll Learn

Iconic Intro Riff

The song begins with a haunting bell toll followed by one of the most recognizable riffs in rock history. This intro is a brilliant study in timing, tone control, and power chords. You’ll learn how to keep your playing tight and authoritative while allowing the natural sustain of the chords to ring through with presence.

Benefit: Mastering this intro improves your ability to control note sustain and develop rhythmic discipline.

Main Riff and Verse Sections

As the song transitions into the verse, we see a perfect example of palm muting and tight power chord usage. Malcolm Young’s rhythm work here is a testament to the power of simplicity.

Benefit: Palm muting is critical for adding punch and dynamic control to your rhythm playing, essential for any rock or metal guitarist.

Pre-Chorus and Chorus Riffs

Here, the riffs open up with strong chord progressions and strategically placed slides. These transitions require precise left-hand control and a good sense of groove.

Benefit: Learning these parts helps you develop smoother chord transitions and improve your slide accuracy, making your playing more fluid.

Solo Section – Angus Unleashed

The solo in "Hells Bells" is a blues-infused burst of rock aggression, combining string bending, vibrato, hammer-ons, and pull-offs with Angus’s signature phrasing.

Benefit: These techniques will build your finger strength and articulation, making your solos more expressive and professional.

Outro and Rhythm Layering

As the track concludes, Malcolm’s tight rhythm continues to anchor the groove, showcasing subtle syncopated rhythms and dynamic strumming.

Benefit: Syncopation enhances your sense of timing and musicality, critical for locking in with a band or backing track.

Why Learn “Hells Bells”?

Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn iconic riffs or a more advanced player seeking to refine your articulation and phrasing, “Hells Bells” is an ideal song for building both rhythm and lead chops. The blend of feel, technique, and tone makes it a rewarding challenge that can elevate multiple aspects of your playing.

Guitar Techniques Used in the Lesson

• Vibrato
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• String Bending
• Slides
• Chord Progressions
• Syncopated Rhythms

With our comprehensive guitar lesson, you’ll not only master the riffs and solos of “Hells Bells,” but also build essential skills to apply across countless rock and blues songs. Dive in and crank up the gain—it’s time to channel your inner Young brother and bring the thunder. Ready to plug in?