Teenage Kicks
The Undertones, 1978. Solo by John O'Neill, Damian O'Neill.
The solo lasts a few seconds and is barely more than the chords, which is exactly why it works.
Teenage Kicks is a perfect burst of youthful excitement, and its guitar solo lasts only a few seconds. It is barely more than a strum through the chords, but that simplicity is exactly why it works. The brothers John and Damian O'Neill keep the energy high and the focus on the song's joyful melody. The track famously became a favourite of radio DJ John Peel, who championed it throughout his career. Listen for how the solo fits seamlessly into the song's driving rhythm, sounding more like a burst of enthusiasm than a showcase, and for the way it leads straight back into the chorus without losing any momentum.
Teenage Kicks by The Undertones is featured in our Punk (#14) list. The solo is played by John O'Neill, Damian O'Neill and the song was released in 1978.
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Who played the guitar solo on Teenage Kicks?
John O'Neill, Damian O'Neill played the solo on The Undertones's Teenage Kicks (1978).