Alrighty, rock enthusiasts! Ready to dive into a legendary anthem? We’re breaking down how to play “Back in Black” by AC/DC, a timeless rock staple that’s surprisingly accessible for guitarists of all levels, especially beginners. This track is built upon a foundation of open chords and powerful power chords, sprinkled with some killer, yet easy-to-learn licks.
Before we crank up the volume, for those eager to see it in action, check out our comprehensive video lesson below. It’s designed to get you riffing in no time.
Watch the Guitar Lesson on YouTube
Now, for those who prefer to learn at their own pace or want to dig deeper, keep scrolling! We’ve got chord diagrams, tablature insights, and a breakdown that will make learning “Back in Black” a breeze. Whether you’re just starting your guitar journey or looking to add a rock classic to your repertoire, you’re in the right place. Let’s get rocking!
Gear Up for Black in Black: Essential Equipment
To truly capture the iconic AC/DC sound, let’s talk gear. Think Marshall amps – stacks of them! Angus Young’s signature tone is largely sculpted by a Gibson SG plugged into a roaring 100-watt Marshall JMP100 Super Lead. However, for most of us, a full stack might be a tad… excessive.
A more practical setup for home practice and even smaller gigs would be a Marshall combo amp with EL34 tubes. You’ll be surprised how close you can get to that classic AC/DC crunch without shaking the foundations of your house. The key is to dial back the distortion more than you might think. Many renditions, especially online, often suffer from over-distortion, pushing the sound into metal territory, which isn’t quite the AC/DC vibe.
Interestingly, the Young brothers themselves have mentioned a preference for a slightly cleaner guitar tone. They aimed for a powerful, in-your-face guitar sound, but not necessarily the heavily distorted tones often associated with hard rock. This nuance is crucial in nailing the authentic “Back in Black” sound.
Decoding the Chords: Simplicity is Key
“Back in Black” is often one of the first songs new guitarists tackle, and for good reason. Its chord structure is based on fundamental open chords in the key of E, seamlessly transitioning into power chords for that anthemic chorus. This song is a fantastic gateway to understanding both open and power chords, essential building blocks for any guitarist.
Nashville Number System: A Quick Dive (For the Curious)
While AC/DC hails from Australia, understanding the Nashville Number System can offer a different perspective on the song’s structure. For those unfamiliar, it’s a way to represent chords based on their scale degree.
In the verse, which is in the key of E, the chord progression is a classic 1-b7-4. Let’s break that down: In the key of E major, the 1st is E, the flat 7th (b7) is D, and the 4th is A. Hence, the verse chords are E, D, and A.
The chorus shifts the tonal center, feeling like it moves to the key of A. Here, the progression is 1-5-2, resolving to b7-4-1. In the key of A major: 1st is A, 5th is E, 2nd is B for the 1-5-2 part. Then, b7 is G, 4th is D, and 1st is A for the b7-4-1 resolution. So, chorus chords are A, E, B, followed by G, D, A.
Verse Chord Breakdown: E, D, A
The verse in “Back in Black” is remarkably straightforward. You’ll play the E chord once, followed by the D chord three times, and then the A chord three times. After the A chord sequence, Angus Young throws in a couple of signature riffs as transitions back to the E chord to repeat the verse. You can learn these riffs in the ‘Main Riff’ section below!
E Major Chord Diagram
D Major Chord Diagram
A Major Chord Diagram
Chorus Power Chord Onslaught: A, E, B, G, D
The chorus kicks in with power! Here, we switch to power chords, giving the chorus its driving energy. You’ll use A, E, and B power chords, followed by G and D major chords to resolve back to A.
A Power Chord Diagram
E Power Chord Diagram
B Power Chord Diagram
G Major Chord Diagram for AC/DC
D Major Chord Diagram for AC/DC
Chorus Chord Progression
“Back in Black” Chords and Lyrics: Play Along!
Now that you’re armed with the chords and the main riffs, let’s put it all together and play along with the lyrics! This is where it all comes to life.
[Verse 1]
E
Back in black
D
I hit the sack
A
I’ve been too long, I’m glad to be back
E
Yes, I’m let loose
D
From the noose
A
That’s kept me hanging about
E
I’ve been looking at the sky
D
‘Cause it’s gettin’ me high
A
Forget the hearse ’cause I never die
E
I got nine lives
D
Cat’s eyes
A
Abusin’ every one of them and running wild
[Chorus]
………………………..A…E…B
‘Cause I’m back
………………………..A…E…B
Yes, I’m back
………………………..G…D…A
Well, I’m back
………………………..G…D…A
Yes, I’m back
…………….A…E…B………A…E…B
Well, I’m back…………..back
…………….G
Well, I’m back in black
……………D
Yes, I’m back in black
[Verse 2]
E
Back in the back
D
Of a Cadillac
A
Number one with a bullet, I’m a power pack
E
Yes, I’m in a bang
D
With a gang
A
They’ve got to catch me if they want me to hang
E
‘Cause I’m back on the track
D
And I’m beatin’ the flack
A
Nobody’s gonna get me on another rap
E
So look at me now
D
I’m just makin’ my play
A
Don’t try to push your luck, just get out of my way
[Chorus]
………………………..A…E…B
‘Cause I’m back
………………………..A…E…B
Yes, I’m back
………………………..G…D…A
Well, I’m back
………………………..G…D…A
Yes, I’m back
…………….A…E…B……A…E…B
Well, I’m back………..back
…………….G
Well, I’m back in black
…………..D
Yes, I’m back in black
You’ve Nailed It!
Congratulations! You’ve just conquered “Back in Black” on guitar! Ready for more classic rock anthems? Explore our lessons on Fortunate Son by Creedence Clearwater Revival, or Don’t Fear (The Reaper) by Blue Oyster Cult. Looking for simpler chords? Try country classics like Wagon Wheel or Willin’.
For more advanced players, challenge yourself with Can’t You See by The Marshall Tucker Band or Only Daddy That’ll Walk The Line by Waylon Jennings!
And if you were eyeing that Gibson SG in the video, check out our Gibson SG 61 Reissue review.
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