AC/DC. The name itself conjures images of electrifying performances and, most importantly, unforgettable rock riffs. Among their vast catalog of rock anthems, “Back In Black” stands out, largely thanks to its instantly recognizable and powerful intro riff. If you’re a guitarist looking to expand your riff repertoire and learn a cornerstone of rock guitar, mastering the intro to “Back In Black” is a must. This guitar lesson will break down the intro to “Back In Black” step-by-step, ensuring you can confidently play this classic AC/DC riff. We’ll cover everything from the essential power chords to those signature Angus Young fills, getting you ready to rock in no time.
Back in Black Guitar Tab
Step-by-Step Guide to the “Back In Black” Intro Riff
Let’s dive into the riff that has launched a thousand headbangs. The beauty of AC/DC’s riffs lies in their simplicity and raw power. The “Back In Black” intro is built upon just three fundamental power chords: E5, D5, and A5.
Understanding Power Chords: The Foundation of Rock
For those newer to guitar or rock music, understanding power chords is crucial. Unlike major or minor chords which contain three notes and define a major or minor tonality, power chords are built with only two notes: the root and the fifth. This omission of the third creates a sonically ambiguous yet incredibly powerful chord that is neither major nor minor.
Power chords are typically written with the root note followed by the number “5,” such as E5, A5, etc. This structure provides guitarists with greater melodic and soloing freedom because the harmonic ambiguity of power chords allows them to fit seamlessly into both major and minor keys.
If you’re unfamiliar with playing power chords, don’t worry! We’ll break down the finger positions for each chord used in the “Back In Black” intro.
Chord Breakdown and Strumming Pattern
-
E5 Power Chord: To play an E5 power chord, place your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 5th string. When strumming, focus on hitting only the 6th and 5th strings. The open 6th string (E note) acts as the root of the chord.
-
D5 Power Chord: For the D5 power chord, move your index finger down to the 2nd fret of the 3rd string. Place your ring finger on the 3rd fret of the 2nd string. Strum from the open 4th string (D note – the root) down to the 2nd string.
-
A5 Power Chord: Position your index finger on the 2nd fret of the 4th string for the A5 power chord. Strum only the 5th and 4th strings, utilizing the open 5th string (A note) as the root.
The strumming pattern is what injects the AC/DC groove into these chords. For the E5 chord, use a single, strong downward strum. For both the D5 and A5 chords, the pattern is down-up-down, followed by a percussive guitar slap for rhythmic spacing and added aggression. This slap, achieved by quickly muting the strings with your strumming hand, is key to the authentic AC/DC sound.
Muting is essential, especially when playing with distortion. To mute effectively, use a “karate chop” motion with your picking hand to lightly touch and silence the strings immediately after strumming. Simultaneously, your fretting hand should also lightly slap across the strings to prevent any unwanted ringing. Refer to video demonstrations for visual clarity on these muting techniques. This rhythmic pattern and muting are consistent throughout the intro, while the fills provide variation and flair.
Angus Young Inspired Fills: Adding the AC/DC Fire
To truly nail the “Back In Black” intro, you must incorporate the signature Angus Young fills. These fills are short, melodic bursts that inject energy and attitude into the riff, transforming it from a simple chord progression into an iconic guitar moment.
Fill 1: Open String Licks and Bends
The first fill is relatively straightforward yet incredibly effective. Starting in the open position, use your ring finger to fret the 3rd fret of the 1st string. Pick the 3rd fret, then immediately pick the open 1st string. Repeat this pattern on the 2nd string – 3rd fret then open 2nd string. Next, use your middle finger to bend the 2nd fret of the 3rd string up a whole step and then release the bend back to the original pitch. Finish Fill 1 by transitioning back to the E5 power chord to resume the main riff rhythm.
Fill 2: Pedal Point Magic and Chromatic Runs
Fill 2 introduces the concept of a pedal point, a technique where a single note is sustained or repeated as a harmonic and rhythmic foundation while other melodic lines move around it. In this fill, the pedal point is the note at the 2nd fret of the 5th string. This note is played in between each note of a chromatic run on the 6th string.
The chromatic run ascends step-by-step on the 6th string, starting from the 4th fret, then the 5th, 6th, and finally twice on the 7th fret. The sequence is: 5th string (2nd fret), 6th string (4th fret), 5th string (2nd fret), 6th string (5th fret), 5th string (2nd fret), 6th string (6th fret), 5th string (2nd fret), 6th string (7th fret), and finally, twice on the 6th string (7th fret). Conclude the fill by sliding down from the 7th fret on the 6th string back into the E5 power chord to repeat the main riff.
For efficient execution of Fill 2, use your index finger to hold down the 2nd fret of the 5th string. Employ your pinky finger to fret all the notes on the 6th string. The slide down from the 7th fret can also be performed with your pinky, allowing your index finger to remain in position and ready to transition smoothly back to the E5 power chord.
Conclusion: Riff Like a Rock Legend
Learning the intro to “Back In Black” is more than just learning notes and chords; it’s about capturing the feel and attitude of AC/DC’s legendary rock sound. As the saying goes, it’s not just about speed, but about making your guitar sing and turning heads with your playing. Practice these riffs and fills, focus on the rhythmic nuances and aggressive attack, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering this iconic guitar riff. Keep practicing, inject your own feel, and most importantly, have fun rocking out to “Back In Black”!
[
