Waving strums fill the air. Sweat drips down their faces, yet it’s unlike any orchestra. Voices as powerful as a leopard’s roar fill the air as the microphone stand skids. This is Def Leppard.
Def Leppard is a British rock band formed in 1977, but they achieved their peak in the 1980s. Def Leppard was formed in Sheffield, England. The iconic band members include Joe Elliot ( Lead Singer), Rick Savage (Backing vocals/bass), Rick Allen (Drums), Phil Collen (backing vocals/ guitarist), and Steve Clark (guitarist). Def Leppard forever changed the music industry and became an inspiration for many individuals by becoming a powerful voice for all. Def Leppard is commemorated for the following:
Defining the 80s era: Def Leppard is responsible for the style of the 80s. They had a large presence on MTV, often with flashy and fun visuals that became a blueprint for other musicians to follow. Def Leopard blended rock with pop sensibilities, becoming synonymous with the era. The band also employed powerful vocal layering and heavy guitar riffs in their music, a style known as arena rock, which dominated the 1980s and is considered its golden age. Many other musicians would try to emulate a similar style of music, such as Bon Jovi, Europe, and Poison. Their music also blended rock and pop by making heavy riffs and deep voices mix with catchy lyrics. Rick Allen also had an energetic style to his drumming, which became standard in the 1980s.
Persistence and friendship amidst adversaries: Def Leppard was not always filled with the glitz of stage lights. The band members dealt with pressures from the music industry, mental health deterioration, tension, and more. A tragedy occurred in December 31, 1984, when Rick Allen got into a car accident, causing the loss of one of his arms. The band knew that it would be difficult for him to play on the drums and instead of disbanding the band or firing him because of what happened, the members made adjustments to his gear to allow him to play on his drums. This includes foot pedals (to compensate for the arm), trigger pads (which allowed him to play multiple beats despite one arm), and training to adjust to the new gear. It is also incredibly rare for a band from the 80s, amidst challenges, not to disband. Individuals can learn from Def Leppard that even in the midst of adversity, people can still push themselves to drive towards success, especially when supported by a valuable set of friends.
“They were very popular in the 80’s, and the band went through a lot of adversities. Especially when the drummer got in an auto accident and lost his arm.” said Social Studies teacher, Mr. Daniel Serrano.
Ionic Record Hits: The songs of Def Leppard became a hit among many individuals worldwide. The song “Photograph” (1983) was featured on MTV, signaling its popularity. Multiple songs hit the billboards in the UK and US such as “Photograph” (#12 on the US Billboard and #32 in the UK), “Rock Of Ages” (#16 on the US Billboard Hot 100), “Pour Some Sugar on Me” (#2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and top 10 in multiple countries), “Love Bites” (#1 on the US Billboard Hot 100, and “Animal” (top 20 in the US and UK). Def Leppard songs have even been featured at the Super Bowl to hype up fans and have been featured in video games such as Guitar Hero.
“I fell in love with Def Leppard when I was like three. Music became my dad’s and my thing – our connection. Got me through a lot of hard, hard times in my life. But I would say now that I have a connection to my dad. I spent thee years cross-stitching this as a tribute to him,” said long-time fan, Christine Clement Smidt.
Even if people prefer Sabrina Carpenter or Taylor Swift, it’s undeniable that Def Leppard has changed the musical world. Years have passed, yet they have remained arm in arm, banded together. Their bond remains beating like a heart against the clock of the 80s.
