Def Leppard is an English rock band formed in 1977 in Sheffield. The band’s lineup consists of Joe Elliott (vocals), Rick Savage (bass guitar), Rick Allen (drums), Phil Collen (guitar), and Vivian Campbell (guitar). Def Leppard is known for their melodic hard rock sound, characterized by catchy hooks, harmonies, and guitar-driven anthems.
They rose to fame in the 1980s with their album “Pyromania” (1983) and achieved even greater success with “Hysteria” (1987), which produced seven hit singles. Their music is often associated with the glam metal and hair metal movements of the 1980s but also incorporates elements of pop and hard rock.
Despite setbacks such as drummer Rick Allen losing an arm in a car accident in 1984, Def Leppard continued to record and tour, maintaining a loyal fan base. They are one of the best-selling music artists worldwide, with over 100 million records sold. Def Leppard’s enduring popularity has been attributed to their memorable songs, innovative production techniques, and dynamic live performances.
1. Pour Some Sugar on Me
“Pour Some Sugar on Me” is a classic rock song by the British rock band Def Leppard, released in 1987 as part of their album “Hysteria.” Known for its energetic and catchy chorus, the song became a major hit, reaching the top ten in several countries. Its lyrics are playful and suggestive, using the metaphor of sugar as a stand-in for physical affection. The song’s memorable guitar riffs, powerful vocals, and anthemic chorus have made it a staple of rock radio and a favorite among fans of 80s rock music, ensuring its enduring popularity for decades to come.
2. Photograph
“Photograph” is a rock song by the British rock band Def Leppard, released in 1983 as the lead single from their album “Pyromania.” The song features a catchy chorus and strong guitar riffs, typical of Def Leppard’s signature sound. Lyrically, “Photograph” is about longing and desire, with the singer expressing a deep yearning for a past relationship captured in a photograph. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its music video received heavy rotation on MTV, helping to propel the band to greater fame in the United States.
3. Rock of Ages
“Rock of Ages” is a song by Def Leppard, released in 1983 on their album “Pyromania.” It is known for its energetic guitar riffs, catchy chorus, and anthemic feel. The song’s lyrics reflect a sense of defiance and a celebration of youth and rock music. “Rock of Ages” was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It has since become one of Def Leppard’s most popular and enduring songs, often featured in their live performances and compilation albums. The song’s title is a reference to the hymn “Rock of Ages,” but the lyrics have no connection to the hymn’s religious themes.
4. Foolin
“Foolin'” is a classic rock anthem by Def Leppard, featured on their iconic album “Pyromania,” released in 1983. The song is characterized by its infectious guitar riffs, powerful vocals by Joe Elliott, and dynamic rhythm section. Lyrically, “Foolin'” explores themes of heartbreak and resilience, as the narrator reflects on a tumultuous relationship and the pain of being deceived. Despite the emotional turmoil, the song’s uplifting melody and anthemic chorus convey a sense of determination and defiance. “Foolin'” has become one of Def Leppard’s signature hits, beloved by fans for its electrifying energy and timeless rock ‘n’ roll spirit.
5. Animal
“Animal” is a song by Def Leppard, released in 1987 as the lead single from their album “Hysteria.” It is known for its catchy chorus, strong guitar riffs, and energetic rhythm. The lyrics of “Animal” are about desire and lust, with the singer comparing the object of his affection to a wild animal. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its music video, featuring the band performing in a jungle-like setting, received heavy rotation on MTV. “Animal” remains one of Def Leppard’s most popular songs and is often included in their live performances.
6. Bringin On the Heartbreak
“Bringin’ On the Heartbreak” is a power ballad by Def Leppard, originally released in 1981 on their album “High ‘n’ Dry.” The song features emotive lyrics and melodic guitar solos, showcasing a softer side of the band’s sound compared to their more hard-rocking songs. “Bringin’ On the Heartbreak” was not a major commercial success upon its initial release but gained popularity when it was re-released in 1984 with a remixed version that featured more prominent synthesizers. The song has since become one of Def Leppard’s signature songs and is often praised for its emotional depth and musical craftsmanship.
7. Love Bites
“Love Bites” is a power ballad by Def Leppard, released in 1987 as part of their album “Hysteria.” The song showcases the band’s knack for crafting emotionally charged rock ballads with its heartfelt lyrics and memorable melody. “Love Bites” explores the complexities of romantic relationships, delving into themes of heartache, longing, and vulnerability. Joe Elliott’s passionate vocals, coupled with the band’s dynamic instrumentation, create a poignant and anthemic track that resonates with listeners. “Love Bites” became one of Def Leppard’s most successful singles, topping the charts in several countries and solidifying its status as a timeless classic in the rock genre.
8. Armageddon It
“Armageddon It” is a rock song by Def Leppard, released in 1988 as the fifth single from their album “Hysteria.” The song is known for its catchy chorus, powerful guitar riffs, and energetic tempo. Lyrically, “Armageddon It” is about desire and lust, with the singer expressing a longing for physical intimacy. The song features Def Leppard’s trademark harmonized vocals and melodic hooks, characteristic of their 1980s rock sound. “Armageddon It” was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It remains a popular track in the band’s live performances and is considered one of their classic songs.
9. Rocket
“Rocket” is a song by Def Leppard, released in 1989 as the sixth single from their album “Hysteria.” The song is known for its energetic rhythm, catchy chorus, and prominent use of sound effects and samples, including radio chatter and rocket launch sounds. “Rocket” features Def Leppard’s signature harmonized vocals and melodic guitar riffs, showcasing the band’s ability to blend hard rock with pop sensibilities. The lyrics of “Rocket” are a nostalgic look back at the band’s early days and their rise to fame, with references to their music and influences. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 20 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
10. Hysteria
“Hysteria” is the title track from Def Leppard’s fourth studio album, released in 1987. The song is known for its iconic guitar riff, powerful vocals, and anthemic chorus. “Hysteria” is a rock ballad that explores themes of desire, longing, and emotional intensity. It features a distinctive guitar solo and showcases the band’s trademark harmonies. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “Hysteria” is considered one of Def Leppard’s signature songs and remains a staple of their live performances. The album of the same name is also highly regarded, known for its production quality and hit singles.