This song was originally recorded and released in 1975 by a band called Arrows. However, it wasn’t until 1981 when a cover was released by Joan Jett and the Blackhearts that this track became a hit and was etched on everybody’s minds.
The Joan Jett version is much heavier and powerful sounding than the original and enabled the great riffs, lead licks and solo to stand out in a much more tangible way. Yet again, it is a Gibson Les Paul that provides the great sound which helped make it a world-wide hit. I’m sure the majority of people who read this write up have never of Arrows, even though they penned this great rock anthem.
The song is in the key of E and the chords are all fifths/ power chords (E5, A5, and B5) to form the basis of both the introduction and chorus. Because these chords are played towards the bottom of the neck on the guitar the overdriven sound becomes very earthy and full.
The main intro riff is split into 2 main parts, with a distinctively bent G note (on the bottom E string) ending the 1st part and a quicker chord change from B to E ending the whole phase. This whole riff is played twice, followed by a neat little lead lick before the vocals begin.
Simple, recognisable and fun to play, on both acoustic and electric guitar.
Click here for more details…
Each Riff Includes Step By Step Videos, Tabs and Backing Tracks
Learn to play this Riff and Jam with our included backing tracks. And all the teaching and Jam session videos can either be viewed online, or downloaded to your PC.
-
Andy Partridge on Google Plus
Related posts:
Tags: Andy Partridge, BandJammer, Guitar Riffs, I Love Rock And Roll, Joan Jett, Learn Guitar
May 9, 2012 at 7:41 am 
Leave A Reply (No comments So Far)
No comments yet