Def Leppard is a British rock band that rose to fame in the 1980s with their unique blend of heavy metal and glam rock. The band was formed in 1977 in Sheffield, England, and consists of members Joe Elliott (vocals), Rick Savage (bass), Rick Allen (drums), Phil Collen (guitar), and Vivian Campbell (guitar). They are known for their catchy melodies, powerful vocals, and memorable guitar riffs.
Def Leppard’s breakthrough album, Pyromania (1983), featured hit singles like “Photograph” and “Rock of Ages” and cemented their status as one of the biggest rock bands of the decade. Their follow-up album, Hysteria (1987), was an even bigger success, featuring the chart-topping hits “Pour Some Sugar on Me” and “Love Bites.” The album went on to sell over 25 million copies worldwide.
The band has faced numerous challenges over the years, including drummer Rick Allen losing his arm in a car accident in 1984. However, they persevered and continued to create music that connected with fans across generations. They have released 11 studio albums to date, with their most recent being 2015’s self-titled Def Leppard.
Def Leppard’s influence on rock music cannot be overstated, and they have earned a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Their music continues to be celebrated by fans around the world, and their legacy as one of the most successful rock bands of all time lives on.
1. 'Rocket'
This Def Leppard classic is a high-octane ode to space exploration and one of their best songs. 'Rocket' has an anthemic quality that captures the band's signature power pop sensibility. The song features a prominent guitar riff, catchy chorus and dynamic drumming that together create a sound that is quintessentially Def Leppard.
As one of their most recognizable and beloved songs, 'Rocket' has a timeless quality that still resonates with music lovers today.
The lyrics of 'Rocket' are inspired by science fiction and convey a sense of adventure and discovery. With lines like "Satellite of love, flyin' up above", the song takes listeners on a journey through outer space. Joe Elliott's soaring vocals add to the otherworldly feel of the track, making it one of Def Leppard's most exhilarating offerings.
It should be noted that 'Rocket' was released as a single in 1989 and became an instant hit among fans thanks to its infectious energy. It reached #15 on the US rock charts and #12 in Canada, solidifying its place as one of Def Leppard's biggest commercial successes.
Pro Tip: Try playing air guitar during the iconic riff in 'Rocket'; it will make listening to this classic even more fun!
Looks like Def Leppard also had a softer side, but don't worry, they'll still rock your socks off with 'Love Bites'.
2. 'Love Bites'
This Def Leppard classic is one of the most popular songs from their Hysteria album. 'Love Bites' has been a favorite among fans and critics alike, with its unique sound and emotional lyrics.
- Released in 1987, 'Love Bites' rose to the top of the charts, becoming one of Def Leppard's biggest hits.
- It features a catchy guitar riff and a powerful vocal performance from lead singer Joe Elliott.
- The song's lyrics are deeply emotional, exploring themes of love and heartbreak.
- Its memorable chorus has become a staple of rock radio stations worldwide.
- 'Love Bites' has been covered by various artists over the years, including Halestorm and Adam Lambert.
- In 2018, Def Leppard performed 'Love Bites' on their co-headlining tour with Journey, thrilling audiences all across America.
Interestingly, 'Love Bites' was originally written as a country ballad but transformed into a rock song during production. This unexpected turn led to its success and cemented its place in the pantheon of great rock ballads.
Promises are meant to be broken, but not when it comes to Def Leppard's 'Promises' – a rock ballad that delivers on its vow to leave you feeling emotional.
3. 'Promises'
This Def Leppard classic, known by fans as 'Track 3' on the Euphoria album, is a powerful rock ballad showcasing the band's ability to write emotional and heartfelt lyrics. 'Promises' tells the story of a couple struggling to maintain their relationship despite the challenges they face. The soaring chorus and melodic guitar solos make it a fan favorite at live shows.
The song was released in 1999 and peaked at number 38 on the Billboard Hot 100 charts. It was also a hit in the UK, where it reached number 8 on the singles chart. Lead vocalist Joe Elliott's passionate performance adds to the raw emotion of the song, making it one of Def Leppard's most memorable tracks.
Notably, the music video for 'Promises' features footage from their live performances, highlighting their energetic stage presence. The song continues to be a staple in their setlist and is often considered one of Def Leppard's best works.
According to Ultimate Classic Rock, "Promises" was written by lead vocalist Joe Elliott and guitarist Phil Collen.
Listening to 'Hysteria' is like being thrown into a pit of pure rock energy and emerging with a newfound appreciation for leopard-print spandex.
4. 'Hysteria'
This song from Def Leppard's album of the same name is undoubtedly one of the band's greatest hits. 'Hysteria' showcases their unique blend of hard rock and pop, delivering an infectious rhythm that has stood the test of time. The anthemic chorus and memorable guitar riffs make it a classic among fans, and the track is still popular today, over three decades since its release.
But there's more to 'Hysteria' than just its impressive sound: the lyrics delve into themes of love, loss, and desire in a way that resonates with audiences of all ages. Lead singer Joe Elliott's emotive performance adds another layer to the song's power, drawing listeners in with his passionate delivery.
It's clear that 'Hysteria' occupies a special place in Def Leppard's extensive catalog, both musically and lyrically. With its unforgettable melody and deeply relatable themes, it remains a favorite among fans old and new alike. Don't miss out on experiencing this iconic track for yourself!
Listening to 'Foolin'' is like getting punched in the face, but in a good way.
5. 'Foolin''
This Def Leppard classic. 5. The Deceiving One', features a powerful hook and a dynamic chorus. Released in 1983, this song boasts an intricate guitar riff and Joe Elliott's soaring vocals. The track was received positively by fans and critics alike and has been performed live at many of the band's concerts.
'Foolin'' tells the story of a man who is being deceived by his lover, yet unable to believe that she would betray him. The lyrics are cleverly crafted, with the theme of deception running throughout the track. It's a timeless rock ballad that showcases Def Leppard's ability to write memorable songs.
What sets 'Foolin'' apart from other hit songs by the band is its impressive solo, which provides a musical climax to the entire composition. This song has stood the test of time and holds up even today as one of Def Leppard's most beloved tracks.
Fun Fact: In an interview with Songfacts, Joe Elliott revealed that he wrote the song on New Year's Day in his parents' living room while nursing a hangover. He said that he wanted it to be "like an anthem" and a "big stadium thing." Well, mission accomplished!
Listening to 'Bringin' on the Heartbreak' is like being in a tumultuous relationship – it's painful, yet addictive, and you keep coming back for more.
6. 'Bringin' on the Heartbreak'
This iconic song, known as the sixth track on Def Leppard's top 10 list, is a true masterpiece. 'Heartbreak' captures the essence of emotional turmoil and stands out for its unique blend of hard rock and pop sensibilities. The impressive guitar riffs and powerful chorus showcase the band's dynamic range. Every element comes together to create an unforgettable listening experience.
The lyrics of 'Heartbreak' tell a tale of heartache and longing, delivering a relatable message to listeners worldwide. The song is well-known for being one of the first rock ballads to incorporate synthesized elements into its sound. This subtle touch adds an extra dimension to the already captivating tune.
Notably, Rick Allen's drumming performance in this song is exceptional, marking it as one of his standout moments in Def Leppard's career. Between Allen's mastery, Joe Elliot's passionate vocals, and Phil Collen's brilliant guitar work, 'Heartbreak' is undeniably an all-time great in Def Leppard's extensive catalog.
Pro Tip: Pay close attention to producer Robert John Lange’s incredible production techniques used on Heartbreak; they make the mix sound larger than life.
Get ready to rock all night and pour some sugar on your eardrums with this timeless classic.
7. 'Rock of Ages'
Def Leppard's hit song, known by many as 'Rock of Ages', can be considered a testament to the band's longevity. The track is often regarded as one of Def Leppard's most well-known songs and continues to be enjoyed by listeners worldwide.
Its catchy melody and lyrics continue to spark joy in fans and new listeners alike, featuring a unique blend of hard rock, metal, and pop sensibilities. The song was even featured in the smash-hit movie 'Rock of Ages' in 2012.
Interestingly, the title was inspired by a phrase found in Martin Luther's writings from the 16th century – "Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord". This phrase begins with the words "rock of ages," which likely influenced songwriter Joe Elliott's choice of title for the song.
Nothing screams '80s power ballad' quite like 'Animal', except maybe a perm and shoulder pads.
8. 'Animal'
Exploring one of Def Leppard's best hits. This rock anthem showcased the band's harmonies and guitar riffs and continues to be a fan favorite.
To delve deeper into the track, let's take a look at its chart performance below in a professional table format.
| Year | Chart | Position |
|---|---|---|
| 1987 | US Billboard Hot 100 | 19 |
| 1988 | UK Singles Chart | 6 |
| 1987-1988 | American Mainstream Rock Tracks Billboard Chart | 1 (for three weeks) |
| Sources: Billboard, Official Charts Company | ||
With impressive rankings in both US and UK charts, Animal also topped the American Mainstream Rock Tracks Billboard Chart for three consecutive weeks.
A notable aspect of 'Animal' is its music video featuring live footage from their concerts and tour. The video helped increase their popularity among fans as it highlighted their electrifying performances onstage.
Pro Tip: To appreciate Def Leppard's live performances, watch some of their concert videos where they deliver unforgettable performances that match up to their recorded tracks.
Pour Some Sugar on Me – the sweetest ode to diabetes since Wilford Brimley's Liberty Medical commercials.
9. 'Pour Some Sugar on Me'
A fan favorite, this song has become a definitive symbol of Def Leppard's sound. Known for its iconic opening guitar riff and memorable chorus, this track perfectly captures the band's ability to seamlessly blend hard rock with pop sensibilities.
| Album | Hysteria |
|---|---|
| Released | 1987 |
| Genre | Hard Rock, Glam Metal, Pop Rock |
| Writer(s) | Joe Elliott, Phil Collen, Steve Clark, Rick Savage, Robert John "Mutt" Lange |
| Length | 4:53 (Album Version) 3:52 (Single Edit) |
This beloved hit single from their multi-platinum album Hysteria topped several music charts worldwide and remains popular to this day. Its remix version even earned them a Grammy Award nomination in the Best Hard Rock/Metal Performance category.
As per Billboard's Hot 100 chart and Nielsen BDS Airplay chart data from the week ending September29th of that year; "Pour Some Sugar on Me" was #3 on both charts at that time.
Fun Fact: In 2019, Def Leppard performed "Pour Some Sugar on Me" during their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Before Instagram, there was 'Photograph' – the OG way to capture memories.
Sources: "Hysteria album" by Def Leppard. Apple Music. September 8th,2021. "Pour Some Sugar On Me by Def Leppard Song Statistics." setlist.fm. Retrieved December2nd, 2021.
10. 'Photograph'
This iconic song, which remains one of Def Leppard's most beloved hits to this day, is an emblematic ballad with electrifying harmonies. Photograph is noted for its powerful opening riff and thrilling chorus that instantly hooks the listener. With slick guitars and an explosive drum beat, this track showcases Joe Elliot's impressive vocal range as he sings about the memory of a past romantic relationship. Its widespread success earned it a spot on Def Leppard's 1983 album 'Pyromania', becoming a cornerstone of the band's extensive discography.
In addition to its immense popularity, Photograph's well-crafted lyrics bring an evocative quality that may resonate with audiences worldwide. Moreover, its production encapsulates all of the elements that made Def Leppard one of the most influential rock bands in history. The song took months to create and perfect, showcasing the band's devotion to their craft and attention to detail in every aspect of their music.
Notably, despite its catchy melody line and upbeat rhythm, Photograph tells a poignant story about heartbreak. The lyrics draw from real-life experiences involving the loss of loved ones and relationships; even though it was released decades ago, many fans still connect with its emotive power today.
Overall, Photograph has cemented itself as an iconic classic-rock hit for music lovers everywhere. Its infectious hooks and heartfelt lyrics continue to resonate with audiences young and old alike, making it a true masterpiece within Def Leppard's extensive body of work.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
