“Hells Bells” by AC/DC. Just the name conjures up images of Angus Young duck-walking across a stage, a massive bell tolling, and one of the most recognizable guitar riffs in rock history. As a cornerstone of AC/DC’s discography and a staple for guitarists worldwide, mastering the main riff of “Hells Bells” is a rite of passage. This lesson will break down how to play this legendary riff, ensuring you capture its haunting and powerful essence. We’re going to focus specifically on that main riff today, so grab your guitar and let’s dive in!
Angus Young playing guitar with a Gibson SG
Breaking Down the Main Riff of Hells Bells
The magic of the “Hells Bells” riff lies in its simplicity and the use of open strings, creating that signature eerie and spacious sound. The most crucial element to nail is letting the open 5th string (A string) ring out throughout the riff. This ringing drone is what provides the bell-like quality and the song’s distinctive mood.
Let’s break down the finger positions and picking pattern step-by-step:
- Starting Note: Begin by picking the open 5th string (A). Let it ring.
- First Finger Group: Place your ring finger (3rd finger) on the 9th fret of the 3rd string (G string). Then, place your index finger (1st finger) on the 7th fret of the 4th string (D string). Immediately after, move your index finger down to the 7th fret of the 3rd string (G string), and then back to the 7th fret of the 4th string (D string).
- Return to Open String: Finish this sequence by picking the open 5th string (A) again.
The picking pattern for this section is: Down, Up, Up, Down, Up, Down. Remember, throughout this, the open 5th string should be continuously ringing, like a bell resonating.
For the next part of the riff, we continue to utilize the open 5th string drone:
- Second Finger Group: Use your index finger to fret the 5th fret of the 3rd string (G string). Then, move your index finger up to the 5th fret of the 4th string (D string).
- Open String and Bar: Pick the open 5th string (A) again. Now, barre your index finger across both the 4th and 3rd strings at the 7th fret. Strum both of these strings together.
This completes the foundational part of the riff, which repeats throughout the song.
The Two Different Endings
Now, here’s where “Hells Bells” gets interesting. The main riff has two alternating endings that occur every other repetition. The core riff we just learned remains constant; only the ending changes.
Ending Variation 1: The Open String Ending
After you’ve strummed the barred 7th fret on the 4th and 3rd strings, simply pick the open 5th string (A) twice. This is the simpler of the two endings.
Ending Variation 2: The Power Chord Ending
Again, after the barred 7th fret strum, we transition into power chords.
- C5 Power Chord: Form a C5 power chord. Place your index finger on the 3rd fret of the 5th string (A string), your ring finger on the 5th fret of the 4th string (D string), and your pinky finger on the 5th fret of the 3rd string (G string). Strum this chord.
- B5 Power Chord: Quickly shift down a half step to a B5 power chord. Maintain the same finger shape, but move your index finger to the 2nd fret of the 5th string (A string). The ring and pinky fingers remain in the same relative position. Strum this chord.
- Open A String: Finish this ending by picking the open 5th string (A) once.
That’s the complete main riff with both endings! As you practice, remember that the riff alternates between Ending 1 and Ending 2 each time it repeats. When you loop the riff, be mindful to omit the very first open 5th string at the beginning of each repetition after Ending 1, as the final open strings of Ending 1 will carry over.
Mastering Power Chords for Hells Bells
Power chords are fundamental to rock guitar, and “Hells Bells” utilizes them in its second ending. A power chord, in its most basic form, consists of just two notes: the root and the fifth of a scale. This interval creates a sound that is neither major nor minor, making power chords incredibly versatile and popular in rock music.
For the C5 and B5 power chords in “Hells Bells,” we are using a common three-finger voicing which includes the octave of the root note. While the pinky finger (octave note) adds fullness, it’s technically optional, especially when you are first learning. If you find the three-finger power chord shape challenging initially, you can absolutely play it with just your index and ring fingers. Focus on cleanly fretting the root and fifth, and ensure you are only strumming the intended strings. Muting unwanted strings with your fretting hand is a crucial technique for clean power chord playing.
Practice Tips to Ring the Bell
Learning “Hells Bells” is incredibly rewarding, and with focused practice, you’ll be playing this iconic riff in no time. Here are a few key practice tips:
- Start Slow: Begin practicing the riff slowly to internalize the finger positions and picking patterns. Accuracy is paramount at this stage. Gradually increase the tempo as you become comfortable.
- Isolate Sections: If you’re struggling with a particular part, like the power chord ending or the finger movements in the first section, isolate that section and practice it repeatedly before putting the whole riff together.
- Listen Carefully: Listen to the original AC/DC recording of “Hells Bells” closely and repeatedly. Pay attention to the rhythm, the feel, and the way the open 5th string rings out. Try to emulate these nuances in your playing.
- Focus on the Ringing Tone: Actively listen for and maintain the ringing open 5th string throughout the riff. This is the heart of the “Hells Bells” sound.
- Experiment with Tone: While this lesson focuses on the riff itself, experimenting with your guitar tone can enhance your playing experience. Try using a slightly overdriven amp setting to get closer to Angus Young’s classic rock sound.
“Hells Bells” is more than just a song; it’s a guitar anthem. By learning this riff, you’re not just adding a cool tune to your repertoire; you’re tapping into the raw energy and iconic sound of AC/DC. Keep practicing, and you’ll be rocking this legendary riff in no time!
