Anarchy In The UK - Sex Pistols

Overview

At Licklibrary.com, we are excited to bring you a full note-for-note guitar lesson breakdown of "Anarchy In The UK" by the legendary Sex Pistols. A true anthem of punk rock, this song captures the raw, aggressive energy that defined a generation. Our detailed lesson walks you through every riff, chord, and strum technique, ensuring that you not only learn how to play the track but also master the core skills that make punk rock guitar so impactful. Whether you're a beginner looking to dive into rock guitar or an advanced player brushing up on iconic tracks, this lesson offers invaluable practice across several foundational guitar techniques. Danny Gill breaks down this classic track in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

About the Guitar Player

The main guitar work on "Anarchy In The UK" was performed by Steve Jones, a pioneer of punk guitar playing. Jones is celebrated for his aggressive, no-frills approach to guitar, delivering hard-hitting riffs and power-driven rhythm sections that became a blueprint for punk music. His playing is notable for its tightness, groove, and melodic simplicity, making complex emotions feel raw and accessible. His influence can be heard in countless punk, rock, and metal bands that followed, cementing his legacy as one of the most important guitarists in modern music history.

Guitar Techniques Covered

Power Chords

"Anarchy In The UK" is a masterclass in the use of power chords. Power chords are two-note shapes that deliver a thick, aggressive sound perfect for rock and punk. Learning to use power chords is crucial for players who want to craft high-energy, rhythm-driven songs with minimal fuss but maximum impact.

Palm Muting

This lesson also focuses heavily on palm muting, a technique where you rest the edge of your picking hand lightly on the strings near the bridge while playing. This results in a tight, percussive sound essential for creating a dynamic contrast between open strums and muted hits. Mastering palm muting improves rhythmic accuracy and adds dramatic tension to your playing.

String Bending

Throughout the track, Steve Jones uses string bending to add expressive, vocal-like qualities to his guitar lines. String bending teaches players control over pitch and emotion, helping them bring more feeling and individuality to their solos and melodies.

Slides

You'll also encounter plenty of slides during the performance. Slides connect two notes smoothly, creating a fluid and stylish motion across the fretboard. Mastering sliding improves finger strength and helps in achieving a more expressive playing style.

Vibrato

Adding flavour to bends and sustained notes, vibrato is another vital technique covered. A controlled vibrato brings character to notes, preventing them from sounding static or mechanical. Developing a good vibrato style is a major step toward having a distinctive personal tone.

Chord Progressions

"Anarchy In The UK" is also an excellent study in simple but effective chord progressions. Understanding chord progressions is essential for songwriting, enabling players to craft catchy and emotionally resonant tracks with ease.

Benefits of Learning These Techniques

Learning the techniques found in "Anarchy In The UK" builds a rock-solid foundation for any aspiring guitarist. Mastery of power chords and palm muting sharpens rhythm playing skills, making it easier to lock in with a drummer or a full band. String bending and vibrato enhance your melodic expressiveness, while slides and chord progressions contribute to a smoother, more professional-sounding performance. All these elements combine to boost your confidence, versatility, and ability to play a wide range of rock, punk, and even metal styles.

By studying this song, you’ll not only be adding a classic to your repertoire but also gaining a toolkit of essential techniques that will serve you for years to come.

Guitar Techniques List

• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• String Bending
• Slides
• Vibrato
• Chord Progressions