For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)
by AC/DC
Album: For Those About to Rock We Salute You
Released: 1981
Genre: Hard Rock / Heavy Metal
Difficulty Analysis
Overall
IntermediateRhythm
BeginnerLead
IntermediateBass
BeginnerMusical Analysis
Key & Tonality
Song Structure
Understanding E major:
E major has a bright, uplifting character typical of major keys. The Ionian (Major) mode gives it a stable, resolved feeling. This key works well for anthemic rock songs and creates a powerful, confident mood.
Pro Tip: These keys utilize open strings on guitar, making them ideal for powerful, ringing chords. The open strings add natural sustain and harmonic richness.
Primary Chords Used
Scale Patterns in E major
E major scale
Notes: E - F# - G# - A - B - C# - D# - E
Application: Primary harmonic foundation for chord progressions
Fretboard Pattern
Chord Progressions
Main Progression
Classic I-IV-V power chord progression - the foundation of rock music
Theory Insight:
The I-IV-V progression is the foundation of rock, blues, and countless other genres. The I chord (tonic) establishes home, IV (subdominant) creates movement, and V (dominant) builds tension that resolves back to I.
Chord Shapes Used:
E5
A5
B5
Harmonic Functions:
- E5 (I):Establishes strong tonic center in E major
- A5 (IV):Provides subdominant movement and harmonic contrast
- B5 (V):Creates dominant tension that resolves back to E5
Key Techniques
Power Chords
BeginnerClassic I-IV-V power chord progression with signature AC/DC rhythm
Uses chords:
See chord diagrams in the Chord Reference section above
Progression:
E5 - A5 - B5 - E5
Tips:
- • Focus on clean chord changes
- • Use consistent down-picking
- • Palm muting for tighter sound
- • Lock in with the drums
Rhythm Guitar
IntermediateMalcolm Young's signature rhythm guitar style with tight, percussive attack
Tips:
- • Keep right hand relaxed but firm
- • Focus on timing over speed
- • Use metronome for precision
- • Practice with backing tracks
Lead Guitar
IntermediateAngus Young's blues-based lead guitar with pentatonic scales
Tips:
- • Start with pentatonic patterns
- • Work on string bending accuracy
- • Develop strong vibrato
- • Study classic rock lead style
Practice Exercises
Scale and technique exercises in the key of E major. Practice these patterns to build the skills needed for this song.
Intro
0:00-0:30Power Chord Movement Exercise
Iconic opening riff with E5-A5-B5 progression
Power Chord Movement Exercise
- • Strong quarter-note rhythm
- • Clean chord changes essential
- • Build energy for verse entry
Verse
0:30-1:45Power Chord Movement Exercise
Modified I-IV-I-V progression creates tension without resolution
Power Chord Movement Exercise
- • Modified progression builds tension
- • Vocal melody over power chords
- • Steady quarter-note rhythm
Chorus
1:45-2:30Power Chord Movement Exercise
Complete I-IV-V-I provides satisfying resolution
Power Chord Movement Exercise
- • Classic I-IV-V-I resolution
- • Anthemic vocal melody
- • Full band arrangement
Bridge
3:30-4:15Power Chord Movement Exercise
♭VI-♭III-♭VII-IV progression borrowed from parallel minor
Power Chord Movement Exercise
- • Borrowed chords from E minor
- • Creates darker harmonic color
- • Builds tension for final chorus
Equipment & Tone
Guitar
Recommended:
Pickup Type:
Humbucker pickups for thick, sustaining tone
Alternatives:
- • Gibson Les Paul
- • Epiphone SG
- • Any humbucker-equipped guitar
Amplifier
Settings:
Gain: 6-7/10
Treble: 7/10
Middle: 8/10
Bass: 7/10
Presence: 6/10
Alternatives:
Effects
Distortion:
Natural amp overdrive, moderate crunch
Reverb:
Minimal - studio reverb only
Other:
Direct guitar to amp - no pedals needed
Learning Path
Getting Started
Time Estimate: 1-3 weeks
- • Learn E5, A5, B5 power chords
- • Practice basic chord changes slowly
- • Work on consistent down-picking
- • Master simple I-IV-V progression
Building Skills
Time Estimate: 3-6 weeks
- • Master complete song structure
- • Work on rhythm guitar precision
- • Learn bridge section chord changes
- • Play along with original recording
Mastery Goals
Time Estimate: 6-10 weeks
- • Add lead guitar solos
- • Perfect Malcolm Young rhythm style
- • Master complete arrangement
- • Perform with AC/DC energy and attitude
Practice Notes
Common Mistakes
- • Rushing the chord changes
- • Over-saturating the amp tone
- • Playing too fast for the groove
- • Missing the rhythmic pocket with drums
Practice Routine
- • Warm up with chromatic exercises
- • Practice chord changes slowly
- • Work on down-picking consistency
- • Play along with backing track
- • Record yourself for timing assessment
Metronome Work
- • Start at 80 BPM for chord changes
- • Gradually increase to 116 BPM
- • Practice with quarter-note click
- • Focus on staying in the pocket