Def Leppard: The Legends of British Heavy Metal
The Rise of a Rock Phenomenon
Def Leppard, one of the most iconic bands to emerge from the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement, has carved out a legendary career spanning decades. The band’s current lineup consists of Joe Elliott (lead vocals, guitars, keyboards), Phil Collen (lead guitar, vocals), Vivian Campbell (rhythm guitar, vocals), Rick “Sav” Savage (bass, guitars, keyboards, vocals), and Rick Allen (drums, vocals).
From Atomic Mass to Def Leppard
The origins of Def Leppard trace back to 1977 when Rick Savage (bass), Pete Willis (guitar), and Tony Kenning (drums), then students at Tapton School, formed a band called Atomic Mass. When Joe Elliott auditioned, he initially aimed to play guitar, but with that position filled, he took on the role of lead vocalist. Elliott later suggested renaming the band “Deaf Leopard,” which was modified to “Def Leppard” to give it a more unique and less punk-inspired identity. In early 1978, guitarist Steve Clark joined after impressing the group with his rendition of Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Free Bird.”
Early Recordings and Breakthrough
In 1979, the band released their debut EP, The Def Leppard E.P., shortly after drummer Frank Noon stepped in to replace the departing Tony Kenning. Rick Allen soon became the permanent drummer, solidifying the classic lineup. Despite the dominance of punk and new wave, the EP performed well, and Def Leppard aligned themselves with the NWOBHM movement, led at the time by Iron Maiden. Their growing popularity led to a contract with Phonogram in the UK and Mercury Records in the U.S.
On Through the Night and a Shift in Direction
Def Leppard’s first full-length album, On Through the Night, was released in March 1980. While the album charted successfully, some British fans accused the band of “Americanizing” their sound and focusing too much on the U.S. market. Def Leppard primarily toured in the United States, opening for acts like AC/DC, Pat Travers, and Ted Nugent. This exposure caught the attention of AC/DC producer Robert John “Mutt” Lange, who agreed to produce their second album.
High ‘n’ Dry – Defining Their Sound
Released in July 1981, High ‘n’ Dry showcased the band’s evolving sound under Lange’s production. The album featured the power ballad Bringin’ On the Heartbreak, whose music video was one of the first metal songs broadcast on MTV in 1982. This exposure boosted Def Leppard’s popularity, especially in the U.S. The band toured extensively, sharing the stage with Ozzy Osbourne and Blackfoot. However, during this period, Pete Willis was dismissed due to personal issues and replaced by Phil Collen.
Pyromania – A Global Breakthrough
Def Leppard’s third album, Pyromania, released in January 1983, propelled them to superstardom. Led by the hit single Photograph, which dominated MTV and outperformed Michael Jackson’s Beat It, the album became a cultural phenomenon. Other chart-topping hits included Rock of Ages and Foolin’. By the end of 1983, over six million copies had been sold, with weekly sales exceeding 100,000 units. Pyromania achieved diamond certification, surpassing ten million copies sold. The album’s only major competition that year was Michael Jackson’s Thriller.
A Lasting Legacy
As part of their Pyromania tour, Def Leppard performed with artists like Billy Squier, further cementing their reputation as one of rock’s biggest acts. By 1984, a Gallup Institute survey ranked them alongside legends such as The Rolling Stones, AC/DC, and Journey as one of the most beloved bands of the decade.
Def Leppard’s journey from a school band in Sheffield to global rock stardom remains one of the most inspiring stories in heavy metal history. Their sound, resilience, and dedication to their craft continue to influence generations of musicians and fans worldwide.
