6/13/08: Learn AC/DC’s ‘It’s a Long Way to The Top’

[Guest Gibson Lifestyle]

Lesson of the Day: Learn AC/DC’s ‘It’s a Long Way to The Top’

 

06.13.2008

 

All week we've given you lessons and tips on mastering some of the best AC/DC songs in their catalog, and today's lesson finishes off this blistering week with a look at one of their first biggest hits, "It's a Long Way to The Top (If You Wanna Rock 'n' Roll)."

 

This song is the first track on the AC/DC album T.N.T., which was released only in Austrailia in 1975. A shorter version of the song later appeared on the international version of the album High Voltage in 1976. The song was particularly dear to the heart of the group's original lead singer Bon Scott, who was a member of the Coastal Scottish Pipe Band WA during the mid 1960s. Scott incorporated the use of bagpipes into the song. Brian Johnson, AC/DC's current vocalist, has never performed this song live out of respect for his predecessor.

 

Of course, today's breakdown of this killer AC/DC song comes courtesy of SoloDallas, aka Filippo F. Oliviera, who is a bona fide, self described AC/DC junkie. He demonstrates for us the song’s distinct introduction and opening chord progression, as well as other rhythm elements. He also discusses several tips designed to achieve Angus’ legendary tone.

 

Click here for today's killer week-ending AC/DC lesson >>

 

And please don't forget to check back on Monday for the start of another week of killer lessons from Gibson Lifestyle!