Def Leppard - Photograph

UCRs top 100 classic rock songs list brings us to #55: Def Leppard "PHOTOGRAPH"

It’s often said that a picture is worth a thousand words, and the same is true about Def Leppard’s entry into our Top 100 Classic Rock Songs list."Photograph" was a smash hit for the Sheffield, U.K.-based group in 1983, helping launch Def Leppard and their Pyromania album into the rock stratosphere.

Frontman Joe Elliott didn’t need a thousand words to get his point across: The lyrics reveal right from the start that the singer is “Outta luck and outta love” and it doesn’t take long to figure out that his photograph collection isn't getting the job done romantically. He longs to touch the real thing, whoever she is. Alas, this mystery girl remains only a fantasy and much to his despair, he can only love her from afar.

Def Leppard knows the formula for creating a good single, and this was just one of many for this talented group. Elliott and guitarist Phil Collen are both huge fans of rock ‘n’ roll, and with inspirations ranging from the Beatles and David Bowie to Mott the Hoople, this band of believers were destined for their own stardom.

"Photograph" absolutely ruled the airwaves during its time, and the former No. 1 hit can still be heard frequently on classic rock radio. Decades later it’s also still a fan favorite at their live shows. With its strong, passionate vocal from Elliott and great guitar riffs from Collen, the song's unforgettable melody is as indelible as a photographic image.