Top 10 Most Popular Def Leppard Songs of All Time
1. “Pour Some Sugar on Me” (1987)
Released as part of Hysteria in 1987, “Pour Some Sugar on Me” is arguably Def Leppard’s most iconic anthem. Written during the final stages of the album’s production, the song emerged when lead singer Joe Elliott started playing around on an acoustic guitar, leading to what would become one of the most recognizable choruses in rock history. Its infectious, sing-along hook and irresistible energy made it a staple of 1980s rock, blending glam metal with a pop sensibility that helped Hysteria sell over 20 million copies worldwide.
2. “Photograph” (1983)
“Photograph” was the breakout hit that took Def Leppard from rising British rockers to international superstars. Released in 1983 as the lead single from Pyromania, this track perfectly captured the band’s ability to fuse melodic hooks with hard rock riffs. The song tells the tale of an unreachable love, symbolized by a photograph, and Joe Elliott’s yearning vocals make it a powerful anthem of romantic longing.
3. “Hysteria” (1987)
The title track from their 1987 album, “Hysteria,” is a lush, emotional ballad that showcases Def Leppard’s more introspective side. Unlike their more aggressive hits, this song leans into a dreamy, almost ethereal sound with its soaring melodies and intricate production. Written after drummer Rick Allen’s car accident, which resulted in the loss of his arm, “Hysteria” reflects the band’s perseverance and emotional depth.
4. “Love Bites” (1987)
Released as the sixth single from Hysteria in 1987, “Love Bites” became Def Leppard’s first (and only) No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. This power ballad showcased the band’s versatility, slowing things down with a heart-wrenching song about lost love and emotional pain. Unlike their more upbeat rock anthems, “Love Bites” is steeped in melancholy, with Joe Elliott’s vocals dripping with emotion.
5. “Rock of Ages” (1983)
“Rock of Ages” is a pure, adrenaline-pumping rock anthem that helped define Def Leppard’s early sound. Released in 1983 from their Pyromania album, the song opens with the famous nonsensical phrase, “Gunter glieben glauten globen,” a playful studio outtake that has since become legendary in its own right. The song’s infectious riff, combined with its rebellious lyrics about living life to the fullest, struck a chord with rock fans everywhere.
6. “Animal” (1987)
“Animal” was the first single from Hysteria, and its release in 1987 marked a significant moment in Def Leppard’s career. After spending years in the studio perfecting the album, “Animal” was the track that finally broke through, reaching No. 6 on the UK Singles Chart and No. 19 in the US. The song is a perfect example of the polished, radio-friendly rock sound that defined Hysteria, featuring a driving rhythm, layered guitar work, and a chorus that sticks in your head for days.
7. “Armageddon It” (1987)
Released as a single in 1987, “Armageddon It” is pure rock-and-roll fun. With its cheeky title and infectious energy, the song embodies Def Leppard’s ability to create upbeat, arena-ready rock anthems. The track’s playful guitar riffs and catchy chorus made it one of the standout songs from Hysteria, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100.
8. “Foolin’” (1983)
Another hit from Pyromania, “Foolin’” is a mid-tempo rock ballad that showcases the band’s knack for combining emotional depth with hard rock elements. Released in 1983, the song tells the story of heartache and deception, with Joe Elliott delivering an impassioned vocal performance.
9. “Bringin’ On the Heartbreak” (1981)
Released in 1981 from their High ‘n’ Dry album, “Bringin’ On the Heartbreak” was one of Def Leppard’s first major hits and laid the groundwork for their later success. The song is a power ballad, featuring a slow build-up that erupts into a powerful, guitar-driven chorus.
10. “Let’s Get Rocked” (1992)
Released in 1992 as the lead single from Adrenalize, “Let’s Get Rocked” is a fun, rebellious anthem that saw Def Leppard return to their upbeat, hard-rocking roots. Written as a lighthearted ode to teenage rebellion, the song’s cheeky lyrics and infectious energy made it a massive hit, reaching No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart and top 20 in the US.
Conclusion
Def Leppard’s impressive discography is filled with iconic tracks that have left an indelible mark on the world of rock music. From the anthemic choruses of “Pour Some Sugar on Me” to the emotional balladry of “Hysteria,” these songs showcase the band’s versatility and knack for crafting unforgettable melodies.
FAQs
Q: What is Def Leppard’s most iconic song?
A: “Pour Some Sugar on Me” is widely considered Def Leppard’s most iconic song, with its infectious chorus and irresistible energy making it a staple of 1980s rock.
Q: Which Def Leppard album is their most successful?
A: Hysteria is Def Leppard’s most successful album, selling over 20 million copies worldwide and spawning numerous hit singles.
Q: Who is the lead vocalist of Def Leppard?
A: Joe Elliott is the lead vocalist of Def Leppard, known for his powerful and emotive delivery.
Q: What is the significance of “Armageddon It”?
A: “Armageddon It” is a fun, upbeat anthem that showcases Def Leppard’s ability to create infectious, arena-ready rock tracks.
