Thin Lizzy – The Boys Are Back In Town Riff

Learn to master one of the most iconic classic rock riffs of all time with our in-depth note-for-note guitar lesson on Thin Lizzy’s “The Boys Are Back In Town.” This powerful and melodic guitar riff is a prime example of twin-guitar rock brilliance, showcasing essential techniques every guitarist should learn. At Licklibrary.com, our expert instructors break the riff down in meticulous detail, ensuring you not only play it right—but understand the why and how behind each phrase.

Whether you're a classic rock fan, an aspiring lead guitarist, or someone looking to tighten up your rhythm chops, this lesson will help elevate your playing. You'll walk away with new tools, sharpened skills, and deeper insight into what makes this legendary riff tick. Danny Gill breaks down this classic riff in this exclusive Lick Library video tutorial.

The Sound and Style of “The Boys Are Back In Town”

Released in 1976, “The Boys Are Back In Town” is the quintessential Thin Lizzy anthem. It's built around an unforgettable guitar riff that balances power, melody, and groove—all delivered with finesse and rock 'n' roll attitude. At the heart of the song’s appeal lies the tightly interwoven guitar work of Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson, whose harmonised leads and contrasting tones defined the band’s signature dual-guitar sound.

This guitar lesson explores not just how to play the riff but also the phrasing, dynamics, and articulation that bring it to life. It’s more than a riff—it's a masterclass in rock guitar arrangement.

About the Guitarists: Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson

Thin Lizzy’s dual guitar attack was a major influence on countless rock and metal bands that followed. Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson brought different flavours to the mix: Gorham leaned into smooth, lyrical phrasing, while Robertson brought a raw, bluesy edge. Together, they pioneered the twin-guitar harmony approach that would later inspire the likes of Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Metallica.

Their interplay on “The Boys Are Back In Town” remains one of rock’s finest examples of musical conversation between two guitars—balancing melody with bite, groove with grit. Learning their parts isn't just about playing a cool riff—it's about understanding how guitarists can complement each other to create something greater than the sum of its parts.

Guitar Techniques You’ll Learn

String Bending

This riff makes tasteful use of string bending to add vocal-like expressiveness. Bending is crucial for giving your playing personality and emotion, mimicking the subtle pitch shifts a singer might use.

Slides

Slides are used throughout the riff to move smoothly between notes. Slides help connect phrases fluidly and add a sense of motion and style to your playing.

Vibrato

Adding vibrato to sustained notes injects them with character and helps avoid sounding too mechanical. This technique is essential for making a note “sing” and sustain with confidence.

Power Chords

Power chords form the rhythmic backbone of the riff. Understanding how to use them tightly and effectively is key to capturing the riff’s punchy, driving rhythm.

Palm Muting

Palm muting gives sections of the riff a rhythmic, percussive edge. This technique adds clarity and tightness, helping distinguish between lead and rhythm sections.

Dual Guitar Harmonies

The dual-guitar harmonies in this riff are what make it truly iconic. This lesson teaches how to play and harmonise lines in parallel intervals—a skill that’s invaluable in any band with multiple guitarists.

Hammer-ons and Pull-offs

To give the riff a smooth, connected sound, you’ll practice hammer-ons and pull-offs. These legato techniques help build speed and flow in your playing.

Why This Riff Is Worth Mastering

Mastering “The Boys Are Back In Town” is more than just ticking off another classic tune. It trains your ear, your timing, and your technique—all in one go. The lesson challenges you to think like a band member, not just a solo guitarist, by synchronising with harmonies and rhythmic motifs.

Plus, it's incredibly fun to play. There's a reason this riff is still a crowd-pleaser decades after its release: it’s built to move both the player and the listener.

Summary of Guitar Techniques Covered

• String Bending
• Slides
• Vibrato
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Dual Guitar Harmonies
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs

Ready to bring this classic riff to life? Dive into the lesson now and take your playing to the next level with Thin Lizzy’s unforgettable rock anthem.