A Deep Dive into AC/DC's "Up To My Neck In You"

When it comes to iconic rock bands that have left an indelible mark on the history of music, AC/DC is undoubtedly at the forefront. With their electrifying riffs, thundering rhythms, and unforgettable melodies, AC/DC has been a constant source of inspiration for guitarists around the world. One of their lesser-known gems, "Up To My Neck In You," hails from their 1978 album 'Powerage' and is a prime example of the band's raw energy and no-nonsense approach to rock 'n' roll. In this article, we'll dissect this track, exploring the guitar chords, scales, solo, and the lead guitarist's playing style that make "Up To My Neck In You" a must-learn for any aspiring rock guitarist.

Chords and Progressions

The foundation of "Up To My Neck In You" is built upon classic power chords. The song predominantly utilises the following power chords:

• A5 (A power chord): [Tab: A5]
• D5 (D power chord): [Tab: D5]
• E5 (E power chord): [Tab: E5]
• G5 (G power chord): [Tab: G5]

The chord progression throughout most of the song follows the sequence of A5 - D5 - E5 - A5, providing a powerful and driving backdrop to the lyrics and melodies. The simplicity of power chords is one of AC/DC's trademarks, creating a wall of sound that's both fierce and accessible.

Scales and Melodies

While AC/DC's music is often associated with straightforward power chords, their lead guitar work is anything but simple. In "Up To My Neck In You," the lead guitar solo is a showcase of pentatonic and blues scales. The primary scale used for the solo is the A minor pentatonic scale.

This scale forms the basis of many classic rock solos and is a staple in the arsenal of any rock guitarist. The solo incorporates bends, slides, and vibrato techniques to infuse emotion and expression into the notes.

Solo Analysis

The solo in "Up To My Neck In You" kicks off with a soaring bend on the 15th fret of the high E string, bending it up a full step to replicate the vocal melody. This bend, combined with Angus Young's signature vibrato, gives the solo its distinct character.

Throughout the solo, Angus Young employs various techniques that add flair and intensity:

1. Alternate Picking: Angus Young's alternate picking is razor-sharp, allowing him to deliver precise and rapid-fire runs.
2. Legato: He incorporates legato techniques, using hammer-ons and pull-offs to achieve fluidity and speed in his licks.
3. Bends: The solo is punctuated with expressive bends, such as whole-step bends and bluesy bends, that give it a vocal-like quality.
4. Slides: Slides between notes add a slippery, bluesy touch to the solo.
5. Unison Bends: At times, Angus Young uses unison bends to create harmonically rich sounds.
6. Trills: Quick trills between adjacent notes create a sense of urgency and excitement.
7. Tremolo Picking: To build tension, tremolo picking is employed for fast, staccato bursts of notes.
8. Dive Bombs: A dive bomb effect is achieved by manipulating the whammy bar to create dramatic pitch shifts.
9. Harmonics: Angus Young expertly uses pinched harmonics to accentuate specific notes, adding an edgy tone.
10. Pull-Offs: Pull-offs are utilised for rapid descending runs that are characteristic of Angus Young's style.

The Lead Guitarist - Angus Young

Angus Young's guitar playing is the backbone of AC/DC's distinctive sound. He is renowned for his high-energy stage presence and his ability to make his guitar sing with every note. His playing style is deeply rooted in blues and rock traditions, which he infuses with his own unique twist. Angus Young's signature stage attire, featuring a schoolboy uniform, has become as iconic as his guitar playing.

Young's guitar work in "Up To My Neck In You" is a testament to his mastery of the blues-rock genre. His use of the A minor pentatonic scale, combined with impeccable phrasing and a relentless sense of groove, makes for a solo that's not only technically impressive but also emotionally charged. It's a perfect example of how Angus Young can convey raw emotion through his guitar, captivating the listener and leaving a lasting impression.

Techniques Used

In summary, "Up To My Neck In You" by AC/DC is a masterclass in classic rock guitar techniques. Here's a list of the techniques employed in this song, each linked to a glossary entry for further exploration:

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Bends
• Slides
• Unison Bends
• Trills
• Tremolo Picking
• Harmonics
• Pull-Offs
• Power Chords
• Dive Bombs

By incorporating these techniques, Angus Young creates a guitar solo that is not only technically impressive but also emotionally charged, adding depth and excitement to "Up To My Neck In You." Aspiring rock guitarists can learn a great deal from dissecting and mastering the elements that make this track a timeless classic in the world of rock 'n' roll.