Ozzy Osbourne – Bark at the Moon – Main Riff

Step into the world of classic heavy metal guitar playing with our note-for-note guitar lesson of Ozzy Osbourne’s Bark at the Moon main riff and solo techniques. This exclusive Licklibrary lesson dissects the powerful rhythm and advanced lead techniques that helped define 1980s metal, while giving guitarists the tools to elevate their own playing. From aggressive alternate picking to haunting pinched harmonics and fluid legato runs, this breakdown reveals every detail behind one of Jake E. Lee’s most iconic performances. Danny Gill breaks down this classic riff in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Song and Its Impact

Released in 1983, Bark at the Moon was the title track of Ozzy Osbourne’s third studio album and introduced fans to the phenomenal guitar work of Jake E. Lee. Replacing the late Randy Rhoads, Lee brought a more aggressive, virtuosic edge to Ozzy’s sound. The track’s opening riff is instantly recognisable — a combination of speed, precision, and melodic flair that remains a staple of metal guitar vocabulary. Jake E. Lee’s influence stretches far beyond this single track; his ability to fuse classical elements with hard-hitting metal rhythms laid a blueprint for many players to follow.

Main Riff Breakdown

The main riff in Bark at the Moon is a masterclass in synchronisation and control. It's built around alternate picking, fast-paced power chords, and strategic palm muting, which gives the riff a tight, percussive edge. The consistent use of open strings adds dynamic range, while rapid note transitions test your right-hand discipline.

• Alternate Picking: This technique requires picking every note in an up-and-down motion, allowing for faster and cleaner execution. Learning this will dramatically improve your speed and accuracy, especially for fast, intricate riffs.
• Palm Muting: Used to control sustain and emphasise rhythm, this technique brings tightness and definition to distorted tones — essential for any metal rhythm work.
• Power Chords: These simple yet effective chords deliver a heavy, punchy sound that forms the backbone of rock and metal riffs.

Solo Techniques Explored

The solo in Bark at the Moon is a melting pot of advanced techniques, demanding dexterity, control, and musicality. This section of the lesson focuses on breaking down each component in a manageable way, helping players unlock the secrets behind Jake E. Lee’s explosive phrasing and expressive playing style.

Legato

Legato playing involves smooth transitions between notes using hammer-ons and pull-offs rather than picking each note. This results in a fluid, connected sound. Mastering legato is key to building speed without sacrificing tone and is essential for creating seamless lead lines.

Pinched Harmonics

These high-pitched squeals are created by striking the string with both the pick and thumb, creating an overtone. They add aggression and character to solos, making your licks more expressive and stand out in a mix.

Trills

Trills are rapid alternations between two adjacent notes, typically executed with hammer-ons and pull-offs. Practicing trills improves finger strength and stamina while adding flair to your phrasing.

String Bending

Bending notes up to pitch creates a vocal-like quality. In this solo, bends are used to sustain emotion and drama. Learning to bend with control helps in developing expressive lead lines.

Vibrato

Once a note is bent or sustained, applying vibrato adds depth and feeling. Jake E. Lee’s wide, aggressive vibrato is a signature of his style, and mastering it can give your playing a more professional and passionate edge.

Slides

Sliding between notes enhances movement across the fretboard and adds a polished, fluid motion to your phrasing. Slides are especially useful in transitioning between positions and connecting melodic ideas.

Why Learn These Techniques?

Studying the main riff and solo from Bark at the Moon is not just about learning a song — it's about equipping yourself with tools that can be applied to your own playing. You’ll develop technical fluency, musical phrasing, and tone control, all while enjoying one of metal’s most celebrated guitar performances. Whether you're an intermediate player looking to expand your skill set or an advanced guitarist honing your expressive range, this lesson provides immense value.

Summary of Guitar Techniques Used

• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Pinched Harmonics
• Trills
• String Bending
• Vibrato
• Slides
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting