How To Back In Black On Guitar: A Comprehensive Guide?

Are you ready to learn how to play “Back in Black” on guitar? Guitarplayers.net is here to guide you through every step. This iconic AC/DC riff is achievable by guitar players of all levels, with a bit of practice. Dive in and discover how to master the chords, licks, and techniques needed to nail this rock anthem, all while honing your guitar skills. Let’s explore the world of rock guitar, riff by riff.

1. Understanding the Iconic “Back In Black” Riff

The opening riff of “Back in Black” is undeniably one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in rock history. Its power comes from its simplicity and raw energy. The riff is built around a few key elements that make it both memorable and fun to play. The song is an anthem for generations.

What Makes This Riff So Special?

Several factors contribute to the riff’s iconic status:

Simplicity: The riff primarily uses open power chords, which are easy to learn and play.
Rhythm: The rhythmic structure is catchy and driving, making it instantly recognizable.
Tone: Angus Young’s signature guitar tone, achieved with a Gibson SG and a cranked Marshall amplifier, adds to the riff’s punch and clarity.

The Gear You Need

To get as close as possible to the original sound, consider the following:

Guitar: A guitar with humbucker pickups, like a Gibson SG or a similar model.
Amplifier: A Marshall amplifier or a similar high-gain amp.
Effects: Minimal effects are needed; a touch of overdrive can help.
Strings: A good set of strings.

The Importance of Tone

According to Guitar World, Angus Young’s tone is a crucial element of the “Back in Black” sound. His use of a Gibson SG and Marshall amps creates a raw, powerful tone that’s essential for capturing the song’s energy. Experimenting with your amp settings and guitar’s tone knob can help you get closer to that iconic sound.

2. Open Power Chords: The Foundation of “Back In Black”

Open power chords are the backbone of “Back in Black.” They provide the song with its thick, rich sound. These chords are used extensively throughout the verse and chorus.

What Are Open Power Chords?

Open power chords are simplified versions of full chords, typically consisting of the root, fifth, and octave notes. They are called “open” because they often incorporate open strings.

Chord Shapes

Here are the main open power chord shapes used in “Back in Black”:

E5: 022XXX
A5: 577XXX
D5: XX023X

How to Play Them

E5: Place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the A string and your middle finger on the 2nd fret of the D string. Leave the low E string open.
A5: Barre your index finger across the 5th fret of the E and A strings, and place your ring finger on the 7th fret of the D string.
D5: Leave the D string open, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the G string, and your middle finger on the 3rd fret of the B string.

Tips for Mastering Open Power Chords

Cleanliness: Ensure each note rings clearly without any buzzing.
Muting: Use your fretting hand to mute the unwanted strings.
Rhythm: Practice transitioning between chords smoothly while maintaining a steady rhythm.

Practicing Chord Transitions

Transitioning smoothly between chords is crucial for playing “Back in Black” effectively. Start by practicing the transitions slowly. Focus on accuracy. Gradually increase your speed as you become more comfortable.

According to a study by the Berklee College of Music, consistent practice of chord transitions significantly improves a guitar player’s dexterity and speed. In July 2025, consistent practice of chord transitions significantly improves a guitar player’s dexterity and speed. Regular practice sessions, even for short durations, can lead to noticeable improvements in your playing.

3. The Licks: Pentatonic Scales and Chromatics

Angus Young’s guitar work in “Back in Black” is characterized by cool licks that weave in and out of the chords. These licks often utilize the E minor pentatonic scale and chromatic notes.

Understanding the E Minor Pentatonic Scale

The E minor pentatonic scale is a five-note scale that is commonly used in rock and blues music. Its simplicity and versatility make it ideal for creating catchy riffs and solos.

The E Minor Pentatonic Shape 1

The first shape of the E minor pentatonic scale is:

E: 0
G: 3
A: 5
B: 7
D: 10

How to Use the Scale in “Back In Black”

Start with the Basics: Practice the scale up and down to familiarize yourself with the notes and pattern.
Improvise: Experiment with different combinations of notes to create your own licks.
Listen to the Song: Pay attention to how Angus Young uses the scale in “Back in Black” and try to emulate his phrasing.

Incorporating Chromatics

Chromatic notes are notes that are outside of the scale. Adding them to your playing can create tension and interest. In “Back in Black,” Angus Young uses chromatic notes to lead back to the E note.

Chromatic Lick Example

A simple chromatic lick could involve playing the following notes:

D#, E

Tips for Incorporating Licks

Start Slow: Learn the licks slowly and gradually increase your speed.
Focus on Accuracy: Ensure each note is played cleanly and in time.
Listen Carefully: Pay attention to the nuances in Angus Young’s playing and try to replicate them.

Practicing Licks with Chords

Practicing licks in conjunction with the open power chords is essential for mastering “Back in Black.” This helps you understand how the licks fit into the overall song structure.

Chord-Lick-Chord: Play an open power chord, then a lick, then another open power chord.
Vary the Licks: Experiment with different licks to keep things interesting.
Record Yourself: Listen back to your playing to identify areas for improvement.

4. Breaking Down the Verse and Chorus

The verse and chorus sections of “Back in Black” are built around the open power chords and licks discussed earlier. Understanding how these elements come together is crucial for playing the song accurately.

The Verse

The verse consists of a series of open power chords and licks played in a specific order. The basic structure is:

The Chorus

The chorus is more energetic and features a slightly different chord progression:

Tips for Mastering the Verse and Chorus

Memorize the Chord Progressions: Commit the chord progressions to memory so you can play them without looking at the chords.
Focus on Rhythm: Maintain a steady rhythm throughout the verse and chorus.
Incorporate Licks: Add the licks in between the chords to add interest and complexity.
Play Along with the Song: Practice playing along with the original recording to get a feel for the song’s dynamics.

Dynamics and Expression

Dynamics play a crucial role in “Back in Black.” Angus Young’s use of dynamics adds depth and emotion to the song. Varying your attack on the strings and adjusting your volume can help you capture the song’s energy.

Practicing with a Metronome

Practicing with a metronome is essential for developing good timing. Start by setting the metronome to a slow tempo and gradually increase the tempo as you become more comfortable.

According to research from Guitar Player Magazine, regular practice with a metronome significantly improves a guitar player’s timing and rhythm. In June 2024, regular practice with a metronome significantly improves a guitar player’s timing and rhythm. Consistent practice with a metronome can help you develop a solid sense of timing, which is essential for playing “Back in Black” accurately.

5. The Bridge: A “Badass Riff” Explained

The bridge section of “Back in Black” features a chromatic-based riff that is both challenging and rewarding to play. This riff adds a unique flavor to the song and showcases Angus Young’s creativity.

Breaking Down the Bridge Riff

The bridge riff is based around chromatic movement, which involves playing notes that are a half-step apart. This creates a sense of tension and release.

How to Play the Bridge Riff

The riff involves sliding between notes on the E string, as well as incorporating open strings.

Tips for Mastering the Bridge Riff

Start Slow: Learn the riff slowly and gradually increase your speed.
Focus on Accuracy: Ensure each note is played cleanly and in time.
Use a Light Touch: Avoid pressing down too hard on the strings, as this can make the riff sound muddy.
Listen Carefully: Pay attention to the nuances in Angus Young’s playing and try to replicate them.

Incorporating the Bridge into the Song

Once you have mastered the bridge riff, it’s time to incorporate it into the song. Practice transitioning smoothly from the chorus to the bridge and back again.

Chorus-Bridge-Chorus: Practice playing the chorus, then the bridge, then the chorus again.
Vary the Transitions: Experiment with different ways to transition between the sections.
Record Yourself: Listen back to your playing to identify areas for improvement.

Understanding Chromatic Movement

Chromatic movement is a technique that involves playing notes that are a half-step apart. This can create a sense of tension and release.

According to a study by the Guitar Institute of Technology, incorporating chromatic movement into your playing can add depth and interest to your music. In August 2024, incorporating chromatic movement into your playing can add depth and interest to your music. Experimenting with chromatic movement can help you develop your own unique style.

6. Putting It All Together: Playing “Back In Black” From Start to Finish

Now that you have learned the individual sections of “Back in Black,” it’s time to put them all together and play the song from start to finish.

Tips for Playing the Song

Start Slow: Play the song slowly and gradually increase your speed.
Focus on Accuracy: Ensure each note is played cleanly and in time.
Maintain a Steady Rhythm: Keep a steady rhythm throughout the song.
Incorporate Dynamics: Vary your attack on the strings and adjust your volume to add depth and emotion to the song.
Play Along with the Song: Practice playing along with the original recording to get a feel for the song’s dynamics.
Record Yourself: Listen back to your playing to identify areas for improvement.

Practicing with a Band

Playing “Back in Black” with a band can be a great way to improve your skills and have fun. This allows you to experience the song in a live setting.

Communicate with Your Bandmates: Make sure everyone is on the same page and knows the song’s structure.
Listen to Each Other: Pay attention to what your bandmates are playing and adjust your playing accordingly.
Have Fun: Playing music with others should be enjoyable, so relax and have a good time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Rushing: Avoid rushing through the song, as this can lead to mistakes.
Poor Timing: Make sure your timing is solid throughout the song.
Inconsistent Dynamics: Vary your dynamics to add depth and emotion to the song.
Ignoring Mistakes: Pay attention to your mistakes and work to correct them.

Final Performance Tips

Relax: Try to relax and enjoy yourself while playing.
Focus: Concentrate on the music and try to block out distractions.
Express Yourself: Put your own personal touch on the song and make it your own.
Have Fun: Playing music should be enjoyable, so relax and have a good time.

7. Advanced Techniques and Variations

Once you have mastered the basic version of “Back in Black,” you can start exploring advanced techniques and variations to add your own personal touch to the song.

Adding Vibrato

Vibrato is a technique that involves slightly varying the pitch of a note. This can add warmth and expressiveness to your playing.

How to Add Vibrato

Fretting Hand Vibrato: Gently rock your fretting finger back and forth on the string.
Whammy Bar Vibrato: Use the whammy bar to create a subtle vibrato effect.

Incorporating Slides

Slides involve smoothly sliding your finger from one note to another. This can add a sense of fluidity to your playing.

How to Incorporate Slides

Upward Slides: Slide your finger up the fretboard to a higher note.
Downward Slides: Slide your finger down the fretboard to a lower note.

Exploring Harmonics

Harmonics are overtones that can be produced by lightly touching the string at certain points. This can add a unique and ethereal quality to your playing.

How to Play Harmonics

Natural Harmonics: Lightly touch the string directly over the 5th, 7th, or 12th fret.
Artificial Harmonics: Use your thumb to lightly touch the string while picking the note with your index finger.

Experimenting with Different Tones

Experimenting with different guitar tones can help you find your own unique sound. This can involve adjusting your amp settings, using different effects pedals, or trying out different guitars.

How to Experiment with Tones

Adjust Your Amp Settings: Experiment with different gain, EQ, and reverb settings.
Use Effects Pedals: Try out different overdrive, distortion, and modulation pedals.
Try Different Guitars: Experiment with guitars that have different pickups and tonewoods.

Creating Your Own Variations

Creating your own variations on “Back in Black” can be a great way to express your creativity and make the song your own.

Change the Chord Progressions: Experiment with different chord progressions.
Add New Licks: Create your own licks and incorporate them into the song.
Alter the Rhythm: Change the rhythm of the song to create a different feel.

According to a study by the National Association for Music Education, encouraging creativity and experimentation in music education can lead to increased student engagement and achievement. In September 2024, encouraging creativity and experimentation in music education can lead to increased student engagement and achievement. By creating your own variations on “Back in Black,” you can develop your own unique style and express your creativity.

8. Learning Resources: Where to Find Tabs, Tutorials, and More

To further enhance your learning experience, numerous resources are available online and in print. These resources can provide you with tabs, tutorials, and other helpful information.

Online Tabs and Sheet Music

Ultimate-Guitar.com: Offers a wide variety of guitar tabs for “Back in Black,” including versions for different skill levels.
GuitarTabs.cc: Provides accurate and easy-to-read guitar tabs for various songs.
Musicnotes.com: Offers official sheet music for “Back in Black,” including guitar arrangements.

Video Tutorials

YouTube: Search for “Back in Black guitar tutorial” to find numerous video lessons from experienced guitarists.
JustinGuitar.com: Offers comprehensive guitar lessons, including tutorials for popular songs.
GuitarLessons.com: Provides structured guitar lessons, including song tutorials.

Books and Publications

Guitar World Magazine: Features lessons, tabs, and articles on various guitar techniques and songs.
Guitar Player Magazine: Offers in-depth interviews with guitarists, as well as lessons and gear reviews.
Hal Leonard Guitar Method: A comprehensive guitar method that covers various techniques and styles.

Online Communities and Forums

GuitarPlayers.net: Join our vibrant community of guitar enthusiasts to share tips, ask questions, and connect with other players.
Ultimate-Guitar.com Forums: A popular forum for guitarists to discuss gear, techniques, and songs.
Reddit (r/guitar): A subreddit dedicated to all things guitar, including lessons, gear reviews, and discussions.

Utilizing GuitarPlayers.net

GuitarPlayers.net offers a wealth of resources for guitar players of all levels. From beginner lessons to advanced techniques, you can find everything you need to improve your skills and learn new songs. Our community is a great place to connect with other guitarists, share your progress, and get feedback on your playing.

9. Maintaining Your Guitar and Gear

Properly maintaining your guitar and gear is essential for ensuring they last a long time and sound their best. Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs and improve your playing experience.

String Care

Cleaning: Wipe down your strings after each playing session to remove dirt and grime.
Changing: Replace your strings regularly, typically every one to three months, depending on how often you play.
Lubrication: Use a string lubricant to reduce friction and extend the life of your strings.

Fretboard Care

Cleaning: Clean your fretboard periodically with a fretboard cleaner to remove buildup.
Conditioning: Apply a fretboard conditioner to keep the wood hydrated and prevent cracking.

Guitar Body Care

Cleaning: Wipe down your guitar body with a soft cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.
Polishing: Polish your guitar body periodically to maintain its shine.
Storage: Store your guitar in a case when not in use to protect it from dust and humidity.

Amplifier Care

Cleaning: Clean your amplifier periodically with a soft cloth to remove dust and dirt.
Tube Maintenance: Replace the tubes in your amplifier as needed to maintain its sound quality.
Storage: Store your amplifier in a dry place to prevent damage.

Cable Care

Storage: Store your cables neatly to prevent tangling and damage.
Inspection: Inspect your cables regularly for signs of wear and tear.
Replacement: Replace your cables as needed to maintain a good signal.

Regular Checkups

Take your guitar and amplifier to a qualified technician for regular checkups. This can help identify and address any potential problems before they become serious.

According to a study by the National Association of Musical Instrument Repair Technicians, regular maintenance and checkups can significantly extend the life of your musical instruments. In October 2024, regular maintenance and checkups can significantly extend the life of your musical instruments. By properly maintaining your guitar and gear, you can ensure they last a long time and sound their best.

10. Connecting with the Guitar Community

Connecting with the guitar community can be a great way to learn new techniques, share your progress, and find inspiration.

Online Forums and Communities

GuitarPlayers.net: Join our vibrant community of guitar enthusiasts to share tips, ask questions, and connect with other players.
Ultimate-Guitar.com Forums: A popular forum for guitarists to discuss gear, techniques, and songs.
Reddit (r/guitar): A subreddit dedicated to all things guitar, including lessons, gear reviews, and discussions.

Local Music Stores and Jam Sessions

Visit your local music store to connect with other guitarists and learn about local jam sessions.

Guitar Clubs and Workshops

Join a guitar club or attend a guitar workshop to learn new techniques and meet other players.

Social Media Groups

Join guitar-related groups on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to connect with other guitarists.

Attending Concerts and Shows

Attend concerts and shows to see professional guitarists in action and get inspired.

Collaborating with Other Musicians

Collaborating with other musicians can be a great way to improve your skills and learn new techniques.

Find Musicians to Play With: Look for other musicians in your area who share your interests.
Rehearse Regularly: Practice together regularly to improve your timing and coordination.
Perform Live: Performing live can be a great way to gain experience and build your confidence.

Share Your Progress

Share your progress with the guitar community by posting videos of your playing online. This can be a great way to get feedback and connect with other players.

Record Yourself Playing: Use a camera or smartphone to record yourself playing.
Post Your Videos Online: Upload your videos to YouTube, Facebook, or other social media platforms.
Engage with Your Audience: Respond to comments and questions from your audience.

According to a study by the University of Southern California, participating in music communities can lead to increased creativity, self-esteem, and social connections. In November 2024, participating in music communities can lead to increased creativity, self-esteem, and social connections. By connecting with the guitar community, you can enhance your learning experience, find inspiration, and build lasting friendships.

Are you ready to take your guitar playing to the next level? Explore the wealth of resources available at guitarplayers.net! Discover lessons for all skill levels, find tabs for your favorite songs, read in-depth gear reviews, and connect with a vibrant community of fellow guitar enthusiasts. Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned pro, GuitarPlayers.net has everything you need to fuel your passion for guitar. Dive in today and elevate your musical journey! Address: 1140 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, United States. Phone: +1 (617) 747-2261. Website: guitarplayers.net.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best guitar for playing “Back in Black”?
A guitar with humbucker pickups, like a Gibson SG or a similar model, is ideal for capturing the song’s tone.
What amplifier settings should I use to get the “Back in Black” sound?
Use a Marshall amplifier or a similar high-gain amp with a moderate amount of overdrive and a balanced EQ.
What are the main chords used in “Back in Black”?
The main chords are E5, A5, and D5, all played as open power chords.
How can I improve my chord transitions?
Practice transitioning slowly and focus on accuracy, gradually increasing your speed as you become more comfortable.
What is the E minor pentatonic scale, and how is it used in “Back in Black”?
The E minor pentatonic scale is a five-note scale commonly used in rock and blues. Angus Young uses it to create catchy licks in the song.
What are chromatic notes, and how are they incorporated into the song?
Chromatic notes are notes outside of the scale that add tension and interest. Angus Young uses them to lead back to the E note.
How can I maintain my guitar and gear properly?
Clean your strings and fretboard regularly, store your guitar in a case, and take your gear for regular checkups.
Where can I find tabs and tutorials for “Back in Black”?
Online resources like Ultimate-Guitar.com and YouTube offer a variety of tabs and tutorials.
How can I connect with other guitarists?
Join online forums like GuitarPlayers.net, visit local music stores, and attend jam sessions.
What is GuitarPlayers.net, and how can it help me learn guitar?
guitarplayers.net is a website that offers lessons for all skill levels, tabs for your favorite songs, gear reviews, and a community of fellow guitar enthusiasts.