Genres: Heavy metal, hard rock, glam metal, arena rock, power pop
Years Active: 1976-present
Top Albums: Pyromania (1983) and Hysteria (1987)
Members: Rick Savage, Joe Elliott, Rick Allen, Phil Collen, Vivian Campbell
Origin: Sheffield, England
Past Members: Tony Kenning, Pete Willis, Steve Clark
Def Leppard is an iconic English rock band formed in 1977 in Sheffield, England. The band has been a major force in the rock music scene for over four decades, known for their distinctive blend of hard rock, glam metal, and pop sensibilities. Let’s dive into the story of Def Leppard, from their formation to their lasting legacy.
Band Members
Current Lineup (Since 1992):
- Joe Elliott (lead vocals)
- Rick Savage (bass, backing vocals)
- Rick Allen (drums, backing vocals)
- Phil Collen (guitar, backing vocals)
- Vivian Campbell (guitar, backing vocals)
Former Members:
- Pete Willis (guitar, 1977-1982)
- Steve Clark (guitar, 1978-1991)
Formation and Early Years
Def Leppard evolved from an earlier band called Atomic Mass, formed by Rick Savage, Tony Kenning, and Pete Willis. Joe Elliott joined as lead vocalist in November 1977, and the band changed its name to Def Leppard. Steve Clark joined in January 1978, and Rick Allen replaced Tony Kenning as drummer later that year. The early years were marked by hard work, countless rehearsals, and a relentless drive to break into the music scene.
Def Leppard T-Shirts
Looking to rock your wardrobe with some classic vibes? Check out these amazing Def Leppard T-shirts. The designs of Bring On the Heartbreak and On Through the Night are perfect for showing off your love for the legendary band. Stylish, comfy, and available for both men and women, these tees will make you feel like a rock star!
Discography
Studio Albums:
- On Through the Night (1980)
- High ‘n’ Dry (1981)
- Pyromania (1983)
- Hysteria (1987)
- Adrenalize (1992)
- Slang (1996)
- Euphoria (1999)
- X (2002)
- Yeah! (2006)
- Songs from the Sparkle Lounge (2008)
- Def Leppard (2015)
- Diamond Star Halos (2022)
Live Albums:
- Mirror Ball – Live & More (2011)
- Viva! Hysteria (2013)
- And There Will Be a Next Time… Live from Detroit (2017)
- London to Vegas (2020)
Compilation Albums:
- Retro Active (1993)
- Vault: Def Leppard Greatest Hits (1980–1995) (1995)
- Best of Def Leppard (2004)
- Rock of Ages: The Definitive Collection (2005)
- The Story So Far – The Best Of (2018)
- Drastic Symphonies (2023)
Popular Songs
Some of Def Leppard’s most popular and enduring hits include:
Pour Some Sugar on Me (1987)
Photograph (1983)
Love Bites (1988)
Rock of Ages (1983)
Hysteria (1987)
Animal (1987)
Foolin’ (1983)
Bringin’ On the Heartbreak (1981)
Armageddon It (1988)
Rocket (1989)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGgk0A9XJYI
Awards and Achievements
Def Leppard’s career is decorated with numerous accolades:
- Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019
- Two albums certified Diamond by the RIAA: Pyromania and Hysteria
- Over 100 million records sold worldwide
- Ranked #31 in VH1’s “100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock”
- Ivor Novello Award for International Achievement in 1989
Notable Events and Challenges
Def Leppard’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. In 1984, drummer Rick Allen lost his left arm in a car accident. Remarkably, he continued using a custom electronic drum kit as the band’s drummer. This event is a testament to the band’s resilience and determination.
Another significant event was the death of guitarist Steve Clark in 1991 due to alcohol-related issues. The band and their fans deeply felt his loss. Despite these setbacks, Def Leppard persevered and continued producing music and performing, solidifying their rock history legacy.
Musical Style and Influence
Def Leppard’s sound has evolved from their early new wave of British heavy metal roots to a more polished, radio-friendly hard rock style. Their music comprises layered vocals, melodic guitar riffs, and arena-ready choruses. This distinctive sound has influenced numerous rock and pop-metal acts that followed.
Legacy
Def Leppard’s impact on rock music, particularly in the 1980s, is significant. They helped define the sound of mainstream rock during that era and paved the way for many artists who followed. Their ability to blend hard rock with pop sensibilities made them one of the most successful bands of their time, and their influence continues to be felt in modern rock music.
Some Fun Facts:
- Did you know the band’s name, Def Leppard, was inspired by a school project by Joe Elliott? It was originally spelled “Deaf Leopard” but was changed to avoid sounding like a punk band.
- Rick Allen’s nickname is “The Thunder God.” Pretty fitting for a guy who can play drums like a beast with just one arm!
- The iconic cover of Pyromania features a photograph of an actual fire at an oil refinery in Ontario, Canada. Talk about fiery album art!
