"The Number of the Beast" by Iron Maiden: A Guitarist's Analysis

Released in 1982, Iron Maiden's "The Number of the Beast" is an album that brought the band into the limelight and is considered one of the best metal albums of all time. The lead guitarist's contribution, and the overall guitar work, is something to marvel at. Here's a breakdown for guitarists, including scales, solo analyses, and more. The Number of the Beast is a masterclass in heavy metal musicianship. Becoming their first release to reach the No.1 spot on the UK Album Chart, and to break the Top 40 Billboard 200 in the US. The album also produced the classic track’s “Run To The Hills” and “The Number of the Beast,” as well as some of the band’s most memorable riffs and scorching solos.  

In this guitar lesson course, LickLibrary veteran, Danny Gill walks you through the many highlights of each song from the metal icons, one phrase at a time, including Dave Murray and Adrian Smith’s legendary guitar solos from the album’s title track.

*NB: The lesson for 'Hallowed Be Thy Name' is not included in this course due to licensing restrictions.

Lead Guitarists: Dave Murray & Adrian Smith

Dave Murray's signature blend of fast-paced solos, melodic structures, and masterful use of various guitar techniques has added a depth to the album. The solos are fluid and often use the natural minor, harmonic minor, and pentatonic scales, combined with techniques such as legato, alternate picking, and tapping.

Adrian Smith's approach to solos often involves melodic phrasing, utilizing scales like the natural minor and harmonic minor. He's particularly adept at crafting solos that serve the song, rather than overshadowing it. Smith's harmonization with Murray created a new layer of complexity, introducing dual guitar harmonies that would become a signature element of Iron Maiden's sound, further enriching the album's musical landscape.

Guitar Lessons Included in this course:

Guitar Lesson 1: "Invaders"

In "Invaders," the guitar takes on a driving force. The riffing uses power chords and palm muting to create a galloping rhythm. Solos are played using the E minor pentatonic scale, with a combination of slides, hammer-ons, and pull-offs.

Guitar Lesson 2: "Children of the Damned"

This song starts with clean arpeggios, creating an atmospheric sound. The solos are done using the B minor scale, implementing vibrato, string bending, and legato to create an emotional feel.

Guitar Lesson 3: "The Prisoner"

A hard-hitting song that features a mix of power chords and open-string riffs. The solos are complex and are played in the A minor scale, with techniques such as alternate picking and sweep picking.

Guitar Lesson 4: "22 Acacia Avenue"

This track uses a mixture of power chords and palm muting, along with intricate dual guitar harmonies. The solos are primarily in the E minor scale, and there's extensive use of techniques like trills and vibrato.

Guitar Lesson 5: "The Number of the Beast"

The title track features a mix of power chords and syncopated rhythms. Solos are performed using the A minor pentatonic scale, employing techniques like whammy bar tricks and string bending.

Guitar Lesson 6: "Run to the Hills"

Known for its galloping rhythms, this song showcases power chords and palm muting. The solo is in the B minor scale, rich with techniques like slides and pull-offs.

Guitar Lesson 7: "Gangland"

This track stands out for its chromaticism and use of the harmonic minor scale. Solos include a combination of alternate picking and vibrato.

Techniques Used in the Album

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting
• Trills
• String Bending
• Slides
• Hammer-ons
• Pull-offs
• Chromaticism
• Galloping Rhythms
• Dual Guitar Harmonies
• Whammy Bar Tricks
• Open-string Riffs
• Arpeggiated Chord Progressions
• Syncopated Rhythms

This album's remarkable contribution to heavy metal is a treasure trove for guitarists, providing insight into the mastery and innovation of Iron Maiden's guitar work.

NB: PERFORMANCE FOOTAGE NOT INCLUDED WITH THIS COURSE