For over half a century, the thunderous sound of AC/DC has been the undisputed soundtrack of rock and roll. This Australian band, formed in Sydney in 1973, didn't just play music; they unleashed a raw, high-voltage force that permanently altered the global musical landscape. Their journey from the smoky pubs of Australia to selling hundreds of millions of albums worldwide is a testament to relentless power, tragic resilience, and an unwavering commitment to no-frills, hard-driving rock.
From Humble Sydney Beginnings to Global Thunder
The story of AC/DC begins with brothers Malcolm and Angus Young. Malcolm, the driven rhythm guitarist, had a clear vision for a band built on gritty, blues-infused rock. He found the perfect foil in his younger brother Angus, whose schoolboy uniform would become one of the most iconic images in music history. The band's name, suggested by their sister Margaret after seeing the initials on a sewing machine, stood for "Alternating Current/Direct Current" – a fitting symbol for their high-energy electrical charge.
Their early lineup solidified with the recruitment of bassist Larry Van Kriedt, drummer Colin Burgess, and a charismatic, rough-edged vocalist from Glasgow named Ronald Belford "Bon" Scott. Scott's larrikin spirit and powerful, bluesy growl became the band's defining voice. Their early albums, including 'High Voltage' (1975) and 'Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap' (1976), forged their signature sound: simple, catchy riffs, a pounding rhythm section, and lyrics celebrating rock and roll rebellion.
Triumph, Tragedy, and Unstoppable Resilience
The band's relentless touring, particularly their explosive live shows anchored by Angus's frenetic stage antics, built a massive following. Their 1979 album 'Highway to Hell', produced by Mutt Lange, broke them internationally, topping charts and becoming a rock anthem for the ages. It seemed the world was finally theirs.
Then, in February 1980, tragedy struck. Bon Scott died in London at the age of 33 from acute alcohol poisoning. The loss was devastating, and many thought it spelled the end for AC/DC. However, displaying incredible fortitude, the Young brothers decided to continue, believing it was what Scott would have wanted. They recruited Geordie singer Brian Johnson, whose powerful, screeching vocals were a perfect, if different, fit.
The resulting album, 'Back in Black' (1980), recorded as a tribute to Scott, became a monumental success. It is now one of the best-selling albums of all time, with estimated global sales exceeding 50 million units. Tracks like the title song "Back in Black" and "You Shook Me All Night Long" are permanently etched into rock history.
A Legacy Forged in Steel and Sustained for Decades
AC/DC's formula never wavered. They continued to deliver album after album of consistent, powerful rock throughout the 80s and 90s with records like 'For Those About to Rock We Salute You' (1981) and 'The Razors Edge' (1990). The band faced further lineup changes and health challenges, including Malcolm Young's retirement due to dementia and his passing in 2017, and Brian Johnson's temporary hearing loss.
Yet, like a relentless juggernaut, they persevered. Their 2020 album 'Power Up' was a massive global success, debuting at number one in over a dozen countries, proving their enduring appeal spans generations. Their influence is immeasurable, having inspired countless bands across hard rock, heavy metal, and beyond. They were rightfully inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003.
AC/DC's secret is no secret at all. It is a combination of Malcolm Young's timeless, riff-centric songwriting, Angus Young's iconic guitar work and boundless energy, the distinctive voices of two legendary frontmen, and a rhythm section that provides an unwavering, thunderous backbone. They promised to put the rock and roll back into people's lives, and for more than 50 years, they have delivered on that promise with electrifying consistency. Their music remains a universal call to let loose, turn the volume up, and feel the raw, unadulterated power of rock.
