Billy Squier Hits the "Lonely Is The Night" Riff Live in 1981

Billy Squier builds brief tension with an isolated vocal cue before drummer Bobby Chouinard drops the full band into the instantly recognizable main riff of "Lonely Is The Night." Captured in full high-energy stride, Squier anchors the rhythm on his Les Paul while delivering the sharp vocal delivery that defined his breakthrough era. The excerpt highlights the punchy, Led Zeppelin-inspired guitar groove and the tight rhythm section dynamic that made the track a permanent staple of classic rock radio. Recorded live at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium in Santa Monica, California, during Squier's late 1981 tour following the release of his multi-platinum album Don't Say No. The performance features his core classic band lineup, including lead guitarist Jeff Golub, bassist Mark Clarke, keyboardist Alan St. Jon, and drummer Bobby Chouinard. Broadcast during the early months of MTV, this concert captured Squier at the exact moment he transitioned from club favorite to major arena headliner. #BillySquier #LonelyIsTheNight #ClassicRock #LiveMusic #80sRock #GuitarRiff #ArenaRock