The summer night I first heard Def Leppard, blasting from a boombox during a game of ‘Kick the Can,’ remains etched in my memory. It was Pyromania on cassette, and the sheer energy of it all blew my young mind. That experience ignited a lifelong passion for rock music.
Years later, armed with a guitar and a few rudimentary chords, I attempted to write my own songs. They were, to put it mildly, dreadful. Yet, the spirit of Def Leppard, the raw emotion and power I felt that summer night, fueled those early, clumsy attempts.
Pyromania and Hysteria remain masterpieces, and their influence is undeniable in my own music. The soaring melodies, the driving rhythms, the raw emotion – it all resonates deeply within me.
One song in particular, ‘When You’re Gone,’ directly reflects this influence. I’ve recorded two versions: a raw, 8-track demo that captures the essence of Def Leppard’s sound, and a more polished version with piano.
I’ve often dreamt of sharing this song with the band, not for fame or fortune, but simply as a testament to the profound impact they’ve had on my musical journey.
If you’re a Def Leppard fan, or know anyone who might have a connection to the band, I would be incredibly grateful if you could help me share this song.
Please listen to the 8-track demo of ‘When You’re Gone’ and see if you can hear the Def Leppard influence for yourself
Coffee & a Playlist 