Def Leppard was formed in Sheffield, England, in 1977 by lead vocalist Joe Elliott, bassist Rick Savage, guitarist Pete Willis, and drummer Tony Kenning. The band's name was inspired by Joe Elliott's concept of a band name that sounded powerful and unique.
The band's 1983 album 'Pyromania' was a massive commercial success, driven by hit singles like 'Photograph' and 'Rock of Ages.' The album sold over 10 million copies in the United States alone.
Def Leppard's drummer, Rick Allen, lost his left arm in a car accident in 1984. Despite this, Allen continued to play with the band using a specially designed electronic drum kit, earning him the nickname 'The Thunder God.'
The band's 1987 album 'Hysteria' became one of the best-selling albums of all time, featuring hit singles like 'Pour Some Sugar on Me,' 'Love Bites,' and 'Armageddon It.' The album sold over 25 million copies worldwide.
'Pour Some Sugar on Me' is one of Def Leppard's most iconic songs and became an anthem of the late 1980s, helping to define the sound of the era.
Def Leppard's music videos played a significant role in their success, with the band becoming one of the most heavily rotated artists on MTV during the height of the channel's influence in the 1980s.
The band is known for their meticulous production process, particularly on the album 'Hysteria,' which took over three years to complete. Producer Mutt Lange played a crucial role in shaping the band's polished, radio-friendly sound.
Def Leppard was one of the first rock bands to embrace the power ballad genre, with songs like 'Love Bites' becoming a staple of rock radio and concert setlists.
The band's lineup has remained remarkably stable over the years, with Joe Elliott, Rick Savage, and Rick Allen being original members who continue to perform with the band today.
Def Leppard was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019, a recognition of their influence on rock music and their enduring popularity.
The band's album 'Adrenalize,' released in 1992, continued their commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 chart and featuring hits like 'Let's Get Rocked' and 'Have You Ever Needed Someone So Bad.'
Despite the rise of grunge and alternative rock in the 1990s, Def Leppard maintained a loyal fanbase and continued to release successful albums and tour extensively.
The band has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Def Leppard's live performances are known for their high energy, elaborate stage setups, and the band's close connection with their fans.
The band's legacy continues to influence new generations of rock musicians, and their music remains a staple of classic rock radio, proving that Def Leppard's appeal is timeless.