A Comprehensive Breakdown of the Guitar Styles and Techniques of Angus Young

Angus Young, the legendary guitarist of AC/DC, is known for his unique and electrifying playing style. His solos are characterized by their speed, aggression, and bluesy feel, and he has a knack for creating catchy and memorable riffs. In this article, we will take a detailed look at Angus Young's guitar styles and techniques, breaking down his most iconic licks and solos and discussing the gear and techniques that he uses to create his signature sound.

Early Influences and the Development of His Style

Angus Young's guitar style was influenced by a wide range of players, including blues legends such as Muddy Waters and B.B. King, as well as rock and roll icons like Chuck Berry and Keith Richards. He began playing guitar at a young age, and by the time he was a teenager, he had already developed a distinctive sound. Young's early influences can be heard in his early recordings with AC/DC, particularly on songs like "High Voltage" and "T.N.T."

AC/DC - Guitar Signature Licks: A Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Guitar Styles and Techniques of Angus & Malcolm Young

by Matthew Gasteier

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Signature Techniques and Licks

One of the most recognizable aspects of Angus Young's guitar playing is his use of pentatonic scales. Pentatonic scales are five-note scales that are commonly used in blues and rock music. Young uses these scales extensively in his solos and riffs, and he often combines them with bluesy licks and double stops.

Another signature technique of Angus Young is his use of palm muting. Palm muting is a technique where the palm of the right hand is used to mute the strings, creating a percussive and rhythmic sound. Young uses palm muting extensively in his riffs, and it is one of the key elements of his signature sound.

In addition to his use of pentatonic scales and palm muting, Angus Young is also known for his use of double stops. Double stops are techniques where two strings are played at the same time. Young often uses double stops in his solos and riffs, and they add a unique and aggressive sound to his playing.

Iconic Solos and Riffs

Angus Young has written and performed some of the most iconic guitar solos and riffs in rock and roll history. Some of his most famous solos include the solos on "Highway to Hell," "Back in Black," and "Thunderstruck." These solos are all characterized by their speed, aggression, and bluesy feel, and they have helped to define Angus Young's signature sound.

In addition to his solos, Angus Young has also written some of the most memorable guitar riffs in rock and roll history. Some of his most famous riffs include the riffs on "Whole Lotta Rosie," "Let There Be Rock," and "For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)." These riffs are all catchy and memorable, and they have helped to make AC/DC one of the most successful rock bands of all time.

Gear and Equipment

Angus Young is known for his use of Gibson SG guitars. He has used SGs almost exclusively throughout his career, and he has become closely associated with the model. Young's SGs are typically equipped with Seymour Duncan humbucking pickups, which give him his signature fat and aggressive sound.

In addition to his guitars, Angus Young also uses a variety of pedals and effects to create his signature sound. He uses a wah-wah pedal to add a vocal-like quality to his solos, and he also uses a delay pedal to add depth and atmosphere to his playing. Young's pedalboard is constantly evolving, but he typically uses a combination of overdrive, distortion, and delay pedals.

Practice and Dedication

Angus Young is a master guitarist, and his playing is the result of years of practice and dedication. He began playing guitar at a young age, and he has spent countless hours practicing and honing his skills. Young is known for his tireless work ethic, and he is always striving to improve his playing.

If you want to learn how to play guitar like Angus Young, the most important thing is to practice regularly. There is no substitute for hard work and dedication, and if you are willing to put in the time, you can achieve your goals. Start by learning some of Angus Young's most famous riffs and solos, and then work on developing your own style. With practice and dedication, you can become a great guitarist.

AC/DC - Guitar Signature Licks: A Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Guitar Styles and Techniques of Angus & Malcolm Young

by Matthew Gasteier

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	45924 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	80 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE