Jump to content

AC/DC

This is a good article. Click here for more information.
Page semi-protected
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The printable version is no longer supported and may have rendering errors. Please update your browser bookmarks and please use the default browser print function instead.
This article is about the band. For other uses, see AC/DC (disambiguation).

AC/DC
Five men perform on stage: rhythm guitarist glancing left, drummer behind his kit, bass guitarist turned to his right, lead guitarist in school boy costume and lead singer hunched over microphone turned to his left.
AC/DC in Buenos Aires in 2009. From left to right: Malcolm Young, Phil Rudd, Cliff Williams, Angus Young and Brian Johnson
Background information
OriginSydney, Australia
Genres
Discography
Years active1973–present (hiatus from 2016–2018)
Labels
Spinoff ofMarcus Hook Roll Band
Members
Past membersSee list of AC/DC members
Websiteacdc.com

AC/DC are an Australian rock band formed in Sydney in 1973. Their music has been variously described as hard rock, blues rock and heavy metal, but the band calls it simply "rock and roll". They are cited as a formative influence on the new wave of British heavy metal bands.

AC/DC were founded in 1973 by Angus (lead guitar) and Malcolm Young (rhythm guitar), with Colin Burgess (drums), Larry Van Kriedt (bass guitar) and Dave Evans (lead vocals). They underwent several line-up changes before releasing their debut Australasian-only album, High Voltage (1975). Membership stabilised after the release of Let There Be Rock (1977), with the Young brothers, Phil Rudd on drums, Cliff Williams on bass guitar and Bon Scott on lead vocals. Seven months after the release of Highway to Hell (1979), Scott died of alcohol poisoning and English singer Brian Johnson was then recruited as their new frontman. Their first album with Johnson, Back in Black (1980), dedicated to Scott's memory, became the second best-selling album of all time. The eighth studio album, For Those About to Rock (1981), was their first album to reach number one on the Billboard 200. Rudd was fired partway through the Flick of the Switch sessions in 1983 and was replaced by Simon Wright, who was replaced by Chris Slade six years later.

AC/DC experienced a commercial resurgence in the early 1990s with the release of album The Razors Edge (1990); it was their only record to feature Slade, as Rudd returned in 1994. Rudd has since recorded five more albums with the band, starting with Ballbreaker (1995). Their fifteenth studio album, Black Ice, was the second highest-selling record of 2008 and their highest chart peak since For Those About to Rock, eventually reaching number one worldwide. The band's line-up remained the same for 20 years until 2014 when Malcolm retired due to early-onset dementia, from which he died three years later; additionally, Rudd was charged with threatening to kill and possession of methamphetamine and cannabis. Stevie, who replaced Malcolm, debuted on the album Rock or Bust (2014). On the accompanying tour, Slade filled in for Rudd. In 2016, Guns N' Roses singer Axl Rose replaced Johnson for the rest of the tour dates due to a risk of hearing loss, Williams retired at the end of the tour and the band entered a two-year hiatus. A reunion of the Rock or Bust line-up was announced in September 2020; the band's seventeenth studio album, Power Up, was released two months later. Their supporting tour was announced in February 2024, with drummer Matt Laug replacing Rudd, and bass guitarist Chris Chaney replacing Williams.

History

1973–1974: Formation and name

AC/DC were formed in the Australian pop music scene of the early to mid-1970s,[1] which is described as the third wave of rock music.[2] Many local 1960s artists – e.g., the Easybeats and the Masters Apprentices, had attempted to gain international recognition but achieved limited commercial success overseas and disbanded after returning to Australia.[3][4] Newer artists and veterans of the 1960s beat boom developed a variety of genres, which included a harder blues rock style dubbed pub rock.[2] Popular Australian bands – e.g., Sherbet and Skyhooks, played mainstream pop or adopted a glam rock approach.[5][6]

This photo is in black and white. Angus, aged 27, is shown playing guitar with both hands. He is seen shirtless, with shorts, and the socks-shoes combo. Brian Johnson, aged 34, is shown behind Angus, with his hands and knees on the ground. He is seen wearing an Irish hat, a tank top, jeans and shoes. Both are shown in right profile.
This photo is in black and white. Malcolm, aged 29, is shown in left profile, playing guitar with both hands. He has over shoulder-length hair, and is wearing a dark T-shirt, jeans and shoes.
AC/DC's founding members Angus Young (left) and Malcolm Young (right); both performing in Manchester in 1982

In November 1973, brothers Malcolm and Angus Young formed AC/DC in Sydney with drummer Colin Burgess from the Masters Apprentices, bass guitarist Larry Van Kriedt and vocalist Dave Evans.[1][7] Earlier, Malcolm and Evans had been members of a band called Velvet Underground – not the American group of the same name – based in Newcastle for two years,[1] and Angus started his own band called Tantrum – he would only jam with his friends.[8] The Young brothers had joined Marcus Hook Roll Band, a studio-only band, in 1973,[9] which provided their first recordings for their debut album, Tales of Old Grand-Daddy (1974),[10] although the pair left before it was issued. Before formation, Malcolm teamed with ex-Velvet Underground bass guitarist Mick Sheffzick and Burgess for his proposed group. Van Kriedt took over from Sheffzick for bass guitar,[11] then Evans responded to an ad in the Sydney Morning Herald and then Angus joined after passing an audition.[12]

AC/DC's logo is shown in orange lettering with the AC separated from DC by a stylised lightning bolt.
The band's logo was designed in 1977 by Gerard Huerta. It first appeared on the international version of Let There Be Rock.

Upon formation, Malcolm and Angus developed the band's name after their sister Margaret pointed out the symbol "AC/DC" on the AC adapter of her sewing machine.[7] A.C./D.C. is an abbreviation for alternating current/direct current electricity. The brothers felt that this name symbolised the band's raw energy and the power-driven performances of their music.[13] It is pronounced one letter at a time, though the band are colloquially known as Acca Dacca in Australia.[1][14] The AC/DC band name is stylised with a lightning bolt separating the AC from DC and has been used on all studio albums, except the international version of Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap. Their logo was designed by American typographer Gerard Huerta in 1977 and first appeared on Let There Be Rock. Adam Behr of The Bulletin explained, "[its] type font conveyed the sense of electricity implicit in their name."[15]

AC/DC's first official gig was at Chequers nightclub in Sydney on 31 December 1973.[7] For about 18 months, most members of the band dressed in some form of glam or satin outfit. Angus tried various costumes: Zorro, a gorilla, and Superman.[16][17] Their performances involved cover versions of the Rolling Stones, Chuck Berry, the Beatles and "smattering of old blues standards" while trialling some original songs.[7] Angus first wore his characteristic school-uniform stage outfit in April 1974 at Victoria Park, Sydney; the idea was Margaret's.[1][16] He portrayed a boy "straight from school to play his guitar."[8] On stage, Evans was occasionally replaced on lead vocals by their first manager, Denis Loughlin from Sherbet.[1] In Paul Stenning's book AC/DC: Two Sides to Every Glory, he states that Evans and Loughlin were clashing and as a consequence, other members developed bitter feelings towards Evans.[18]

The group recorded a session in January 1974 at EMI Studios in Sydney, with Vanda & Young – George Young and Harry Vanda – as the producers; both were former members of the Easybeats and Marcus Hook Roll Band.[7][19] George is Angus and Malcolm's older brother. Several songs were recorded, including "Can I Sit Next to You, Girl", "Rockin' in the Parlour" and an early version of "Rock 'n' Roll Singer".[20] A week after the session, Burgess was fired due to intoxication; he was unconscious during a performance.[1][21] Subsequently, Van Kriedt was replaced;[1][22] his recorded bass lines for the January session were re-recorded by George.[1] Their replacements, Neil Smith on bass guitar and Noel Taylor on drums, lasted six weeks, replaced in turn by Rob Bailey and Peter Clack, respectively.[7][23] The band signed with Albert Productions in June 1974.[1] "Can I Sit Next to You, Girl", backed with "Rockin' in the Parlour", taken from the January session, was released on 22 July 1974 as the band's first single.[24] The song reached the top 50 on Australia's Kent Music Report singles chart.[25]

The group had developed a strong live reputation by mid-1974, which resulted in a supporting slot on Lou Reed's national tour in August.[7] During that tour, Malcolm switched to rhythm guitar, leaving Angus on lead guitar – the roles the two guitarists played from then on.[26] During 1974, on the recommendation of Michael Chugg, veteran Melbourne promoter Michael Browning booked them to play at his club, the Hard Rock Cafe.[27] He was not pleased with their glam rock image and felt that Evans was the wrong singer, but he was impressed by the Young brothers' guitar playing.[28] Browning then received a call weeks after the Hard Rock gig from Malcolm: Loughlin had quit and they were stuck in Adelaide with no money.[29] They hired Browning as their manager in November 1974, with the cooperation of George and Harry Vanda.[1][30] The Young brothers decided to abandon their glam rock image; instead, they pursued a pub rock sound.[31] To this end, they agreed that Evans was no longer a suitable frontman.[18]

1974–1976: Bon Scott joins

Scott, aged about 33, is shown in right profile, he holds his microphone in his left hand, while his right hand, with tattoos visible, is clenched near his bare chest.
Bon Scott (pictured in 1979) joined as the lead singer in 1974.

In September 1974, Bon Scott, a vocalist previously with the Valentines (1966–1970) and Fraternity (1971–1973),[7] joined AC/DC after his former bandmate Vince Lovegrove introduced him to George during their stopover in Adelaide in August.[8][32] Scott worked as a chauffeur for the group until an audition promoted him to lead singer.[33] Like the Young brothers, Scott was born in Scotland, emigrated to Australia in his childhood and had a passion for blues music. Scott also had experience as a songwriter and drummer.[8] Their debut single's tracks were re-written and the vocals were re-recorded by Scott. With Scott's inclusion, "[their] working-class style, boogie-rock sound and earthy humour fell into place", according to music journalist Ian McFarlane.[7] Scott's first concert for AC/DC was on 5 October 1974 at the Masonic Hall in Brighton-Le-Sands, New South Wales.[34]

AC/DC recorded their first studio album, High Voltage, in November 1974 with Vanda & Young producing at Albert Studios in Sydney.[1] Bailey and Clack were still in the band during its recording, but Clack played on only one track, and the rest were provided by session drummer Tony Currenti. George handled some bass parts and later redid others.[1][8] Recording sessions took ten days and were based on instrumentals written by the Young brothers with lyrics added by Scott.[35] They relocated to Melbourne that month.[1] Both Bailey and Clack were fired in January 1975.[1] Paul Matters took over bass duties briefly before being fired in turn and replaced temporarily by George or Malcolm for live duties.[7] Matters had disagreements with the Young brothers' decisions.[22] Meanwhile, on drums, Ron Carpenter and Russell Coleman had brief tenures before Phil Rudd, from Buster Brown, joined in that month.[1] Bass guitarist Mark Evans was enlisted in March 1975, setting the line-up which lasted two years.[7]

"T.N.T."
"T.N.T.", AC/DC's third single from the album of the same name, with lead vocals by Scott
Problems playing this file? See media help.

The band were scheduled to play at the 1975 Sunbury Pop music festival in January; however, they went home without performing following a physical altercation with the management and crew of headlining act Deep Purple.[1] High Voltage was released exclusively in Australasia on 17 February 1975 via Albert Productions/EMI Music Australia,[19][36] and reached the top 20 in Australia.[25] It provided a single, their cover version of Big Joe Williams' "Baby, Please Don't Go".[37]

McFarlane observed, "[their] initial achievement was to take the raw energy of Aussie pub rock, extend its basic guidelines, serve it up to a teenybop Countdown audience and still reap the benefits of the live circuit by packing out the pubs."[7] They released their second studio album T.N.T. (1975), in Australasia only,[7] its tracks were recorded with Evans and Rudd except for two tracks, which used Currenti and George. It peaked at number two in Australia and the top 40 in New Zealand.[25][38] Its second single, "It's a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock 'n' Roll)" (December 1975), had a well-known promotional video made for the ABC-TV pop music programme Countdown,[39] featuring the band miming the song on the back of a flatbed truck.[40] The single reached the top ten in Australia.[25] The title track was issued as a single in March 1976 and includes the lyric "so lock up your daughter", which was modified into their first United Kingdom tour's name.[41]

1976–1977: Initial success and record deal

Angus, about 24, in mid-leap, right leg cocked, back arched while playing guitar. Scott holds microphone above his head, another tattoo partly visible.
Scott (centre) pictured with Angus (left) and bass guitarist Cliff Williams (back), performing in Belfast in 1979

Browning sent promo material to contacts in London, which came to the attention of Phil Carson of Atlantic Records. AC/DC signed an international deal with Atlantic in 1976.[7] On their arrival in London in April,[8] their scheduled tour with Back Street Crawler was cancelled due to the death of that group's guitarist, Paul Kossoff.[1] As a result, AC/DC returned to playing smaller venues to build a local following until their label organised the Lock Up Your Daughters tour sponsored by Sounds magazine, starting in June 1976.[41] At the time, punk rock was breaking and came to dominate the pages of major British music weeklies, including NME and Melody Maker. AC/DC were sometimes identified with the punk rock movement by the British press, but they hated punk rock, believing it to be a passing fad. Browning wrote that "it wasn't possible to even hold a conversation with AC/DC about punk without them getting totally pissed off".[42]

The first AC/DC album to have worldwide distribution was a 1976 combination of tracks taken from the High Voltage and T.N.T. LPs.[7] Also titled High Voltage, it was released through Atlantic in May 1976,[7] eventually going on to sell over three million copies in the US by 2005.[43] The track selection was heavily weighted towards the more recent T.N.T., including only two songs from their first LP.[44] Their third studio album, Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap, was released in September–November 1976,[nb 1] in both Australian and European versions.[47][48] Track listings varied worldwide; the international version of the album included the T.N.T. track "Rocker", which had previously not been released internationally.[49] The original Australian version included "Jailbreak". This was later more readily available on the 1984 compilation extended play '74 Jailbreak,[50] or as a live version on 1992's Live.[51] Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap was not released in North America until 2 April 1981, by which time the band were at the peak of their popularity.[52]

After a brief tour of Sweden, they returned to London, where they set new attendance records during their residency at the Marquee.[1][53] They continued to tour throughout Europe and then Australia. In January 1977, they started recording their fourth studio album, Let There Be Rock.[nb 2] Early the same year, they returned to Britain and began a European tour with Black Sabbath. While Scott and Ozzy Osbourne quickly became friends, other members of each group were less cordial. In one incident, Geezer Butler allegedly pulled a switchblade at Malcolm during their show in Sweden in April. Accounts of the incident differ, but AC/DC were taken off the rest of the tour.[56]

1977–1980: Cliff Williams joins and death of Bon Scott

Williams, about 31, shown in upper body shot. He sings into microphone on a stand while strumming his guitar. He wears a singlet top and has shoulder length hair.
Cliff Williams (pictured in 1981) joined as bass guitarist in 1977.

In May 1977, Mark Evans was fired. This was due to "musical differences" and personality clashes with Angus.[1] He was replaced on bass guitar by Cliff Williams, a former member of the UK bands Home (1970–1974) and Bandit (1976).[7] Scott explained that Williams was more experienced, while Malcolm wanted a bass guitarist and backing vocalist.[57] Evans' autobiography, Dirty Deeds: My Life Inside/Outside of AC/DC, released in 2011, predominantly dealt with his time in AC/DC.[58]

AC/DC's first American radio exposure was through Bill Bartlett at Jacksonville station WPDQ-FM/WAIV-FM in 1975.[59] Two years later, they played their first concert there, as a support act for Canadian group Moxy in Austin, Texas, on 27 July 1977.[60] From booking agent Doug Thaler of American Talent International and the management of Leber-Krebs, they experienced the country's stadium circuit, supporting rock acts Ted Nugent, Aerosmith, Kiss, Styx, UFO and Blue Öyster Cult; they co-headlined with Cheap Trick. AC/DC released their fifth studio album, Powerage, on 5 May 1978.[61] The sole single from Powerage was "Rock 'n' Roll Damnation" (June 1978).[7] An appearance at The Apollo, Glasgow, during the Powerage Tour was recorded and released as If You Want Blood You've Got It (1978).[62]

Scott's life-sized statue shown in upper body shot. He sings into a hand held microphone, his chest partly exposed beneath a vest.
A bronze statue of Bon Scott in Fremantle, Western Australia

In 1979, the group recorded their sixth studio album, Highway to Hell, with producer Robert John "Mutt" Lange,[63] which was issued on 27 July 1979.[64] It became their first album to reach the top 20 the Billboard 200, eventually peaking at number 17,[65] and it propelled AC/DC into the top ranks of hard rock acts.[66] Highway to Hell had lyrics that shifted away from flippant and comical towards more central rock themes, putting increased emphasis on backing vocals but still featuring AC/DC's signature sound: loud, simple, pounding riffs and grooving back-beats.[67]

In February 1980, the members began to work on their seventh studio album, Back in Black, with Scott on drums instead of vocals.[68] On 18 February, Scott passed out in a car driven by his friend Alistair Kinnear after a night of drinking at The Music Machine in Camden Town, London.[69] According to police, Kinnear left Scott in the car overnight to sleep off the alcohol effects.[70] Unable to wake Scott early on the evening of 19 February, Kinnear rushed him to King's College Hospital, Camberwell, where Scott was pronounced dead on arrival.[69] The official cause of death was "acute alcohol poisoning".[71] Scott's family buried him in Fremantle, Western Australia, the area they emigrated to when he was a boy.[72]

1980–1983: Brian Johnson joins and rebirth

Johnson, aged 61, shown in left profile. He sings into a cordless microphone while wearing a newsboy cap and a Harley Davidson sleeveless vest.
Brian Johnson (pictured in 2008) joined as a lead singer in 1980.

Following Scott's death, the members briefly considered quitting. Scott's parents advised the members that he would have wanted them to carry on, so they decided to continue and sought a new vocalist.[73] Fat Lip vocalist Allan Fryer, ex-Rick Wakeman vocalist Gary Pickford-Hopkins,[74] and the Easybeats' singer Stevie Wright were touted by the press as possible replacements.[1][75] Various other candidates were considered by the group: ex-Moxy member Buzz Shearman, who was unable to join due to voice issues,[76] Slade vocalist Noddy Holder,[77] and ex-Back Street Crawler vocalist Terry Slesser.[78] During their auditions, the group brought in ex-Geordie singer Brian Johnson, who impressed the group.[68][79] Johnson sang Ike & Tina Turner's "Nutbush City Limits" and then "Whole Lotta Rosie" from Let There Be Rock.[80][81] After they worked through the rest of the applicants in the following days, Johnson returned for a second audition.[82] Angus later recalled that Scott himself had praised Johnson's singing.[83]

On 29 March 1980, Malcolm offered Johnson a place in the band, much to the singer's surprise.[84] Out of respect for Scott, the band wanted a vocalist who would not be an imitator. In addition to his distinctive voice, demeanour and love of classic soul and blues music, the group were impressed by Johnson's engaging personality.[1][7] Johnson was officially announced as the lead singer of AC/DC on 1 April.[85] With Johnson, the group completed the songwriting previously began with Scott for Back in Black. Recording took place at Compass Point Studios in The Bahamas a few months after Scott's death. Produced by Lange and recorded by Tony Platt, it became the second best-selling album of all time and a hard rock landmark. Its singles are "Hells Bells", "You Shook Me All Night Long", "Rock and Roll Ain't Noise Pollution" and the title track. The album peaked at number one in the UK,[86] and number four in the US, where it spent 612 weeks on the Billboard 200 chart.[65] It also reached the top spot in Australia,[25] Canada,[87] and France.[88]

AC/DC released their first theatrical concert film, AC/DC: Let There Be Rock, which was recorded on 9 December 1979 in Paris during their Highway to Hell Tour on 1 September 1980. It was produced and directed by Eric Dionysius and Eric Mistler and distributed by Warner Bros.[89] The band's eighth studio album, For Those About to Rock We Salute You, was released on 23 November 1981.[90] It was their first number-one album on the Billboard 200,[65] and it also reached the top three in Australia and Germany.[25][91] It received mixed reviews from critics.[92] Two singles were issued: "Let's Get It Up" and the title track, which peaked at number 13 and number 15 in the UK, respectively.[86]

1983–1990: Line-up changes and commercial decline

Rudd, aged 42, mostly obscured by his kit. He smokes a cigarette, has shoulder-length hair and wears a dark T-shirt. He has a tattoo on his upper left arm, right arm obscured.
Phil Rudd performing in Seattle in 1996

Instead of Lange, their ninth studio album, Flick of the Switch (1983), was produced by the group's members themselves.[93] It was a return to the rawness and simplicity of their early albums, but received mixed reviews and was considered underdeveloped and unmemorable;[94] one critic stated that they "had made the same album nine times".[95] Flick of the Switch eventually reached number four on the UK charts,[86] and the top five in Australia,[25] and Finland.[96] AC/DC had minor success with the single "Guns for Hire", reaching number 84 on the Billboard Hot 100.[97] Rudd has had long-term drug and alcohol addictions.[98] His friendship with Malcolm had deteriorated and eventually escalated into a physical confrontation, after which Rudd was fired partway through the Flick of the Switch sessions in mid-1983.[99] Rudd was replaced by ex-A II Z drummer Simon Wright in July 1983, after they held over 700 auditions in the US and UK.[100] Simon Kirke and Paul Thompson were two drummers who auditioned.[101]

The band's tenth studio album, Fly on the Wall, produced by the Young brothers in 1985,[19] was also regarded as uninspired and directionless.[102] A concept music video of the same name featured the band at a bar, playing five of the album's ten songs.[103] In 1986, the group returned to the top 20 on singles charts with the made-for-radio "Who Made Who", reaching number nine in Australia and number 16 in the UK.[104] The associated album Who Made Who is the soundtrack to Stephen King's film Maximum Overdrive;[105] it brought together older hits, such as "You Shook Me All Night Long", with a few new songs – the title track and two instrumentals, "D.T." and "Chase the Ace".[106]

Stevie, 59 years old, shown in full left profile. Strums guitar while at microphone on a stand. He wears black T-shirt, dark blue pants and grey-blue runners.
Stevie Young (pictured in 2016) joined as a touring rhythm guitarist in 1988, then joined as a permanent member in 2014.

In February 1988, both AC/DC and Vanda & Young were inducted into the Australian Recording Industry Association's inaugural Hall of Fame.[107] The group's eleventh studio album, Blow Up Your Video, released in 1988, was recorded at Studio Miraval in Le Val, France, with Vanda & Young as producers.[19][108] The group recorded nineteen songs, choosing ten for the final release; though the album was later criticised for containing excessive "filler",[109] it was a commercial success: Blow Up Your Video reached number two on the UK charts and Australia, AC/DC's highest position since Back in Black in 1980.[25][86] It provided an Australian top-five and UK top-twenty single, "Heatseeker", and "That's the Way I Wanna Rock 'n' Roll".[25][86]

Malcolm, aged 37, plays his guitar with both hands, while singing into a microphone on a stand. His over shoulder-length hair partly obscures his face.
Malcolm performing for the "Thunderstruck" music video in 1990

The Blow Up Your Video World Tour began in February 1988 in Perth, Australia. In April, following live appearances across Europe, Malcolm announced that he was taking time off from the North American legs of the tour, principally to deal with his alcoholism. Angus and Malcolm's nephew, Stevie Young, temporarily replaced Malcolm on guitar.[7] In 1989, Wright left the group to work on British heavy metal band Dio's fifth studio album, Lock Up the Wolves (1990); he was replaced by drummer Chris Slade, who has played with ex-Thin Lizzy guitarist Gary Moore, before joining.[7][19] Johnson was unavailable for several months while finalising his divorce, so the Young brothers wrote all the songs for the next album, a practice they continued for all subsequent releases through Power Up in 2020.[110]

1990–1999: Popularity regained

The band's twelfth studio album, The Razors Edge, was recorded in Vancouver, Canada and was mixed and engineered by Mike Fraser and produced by Bruce Fairbairn, who had previously worked with Aerosmith and Bon Jovi.[111][112] Released on 24 September 1990,[113] it was a major success for the band, reaching the top three in Australia,[114] Canada,[115] Finland,[96] Germany,[116] Switzerland,[117] and the US.[65] Its lead single, "Thunderstruck" (September 1990), peaked at number 5 on Billboard's Mainstream Rock chart,[118] number 4 on the ARIA Singles chart,[119] and number 13 on the OCC's UK Singles Chart.[86] Its second single, "Moneytalks" (12 November 1990),[120] peaked at number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100.[97] By 2006, the album had achieved 5× Platinum status in the US.[121]

Several shows on the 1991 Razors Edge World Tour were recorded for the 1992 live album, AC/DC Live. It was produced by Fairbairn and was called one of the best live albums of the 1990s by Barry Weber of AllMusic.[122] AC/DC headlined the Monsters of Rock show during this tour, which was released as a video album, Live at Donington, in 1992. During the tour, three fans were killed at a concert at the Salt Palace in Salt Lake City on 18 January 1991, when they were crushed and fell to the floor at the beginning of the show.[123] It took 26 minutes before venue security and group members understood the severity of the situation and halted the concert. AC/DC settled out of court with the victims' families.[124][125] In September 1991, AC/DC performed in Moscow for the Monsters of Rock festival in front of 1.6 million people. It was the first open-air rock concert to be held in the former Soviet Union.[126]

AC/DC recorded "Big Gun" in 1993 for the soundtrack of Arnold Schwarzenegger's film Last Action Hero. Released as a single, it reached number one on the US Mainstream Rock chart, the band's first number-one single on that chart.[118] Pacific Gameworks proposed a beat 'em up video game for the Atari Jaguar CD in 1994, AC/DC: Defenders of Metal, which would have featured the group's crew; however, production never started.[127] Angus and Malcolm invited Rudd to several jam sessions during 1994; he was eventually rehired due to Slade resigning.[128] Recording began in October 1994 at Record Plant Studios in New York City. After 10 weeks of recording, they moved to Ocean Way Studios in Los Angeles, in February 1995,[129][130] and finished recording in May.[129] On 22 September, their thirteenth studio album, Ballbreaker, was released,[131][129] which reached number one in Australia,[132] Sweden,[133] and Switzerland.[133]

In November 1997, a box set, Bonfire, was released.[134] It contained four albums: a remastered version of Back in Black, Volts – a disc with alternative takes, outtakes and stray live cuts recorded with Scott – and two live albums, Live from the Atlantic Studios and Let There Be Rock: The Movie. Live from the Atlantic Studios was recorded on 7 December 1977 at the Atlantic Studios in New York. Let There Be Rock: The Movie was a double album recorded in December 1979 at the Pavillon de Paris and was the soundtrack of AC/DC: Let There Be Rock (1980).[135][136]

1999–2014: Popularity confirmed and Black Ice

Angus, aged about 45, is shown in an upper body shot wearing his trademark schoolboy uniform. He faces away to his left, with his left hand halfway down the neck of his guitar.
Angus performing in Munich in 2001

AC/DC recorded their fourteenth studio album, Stiff Upper Lip, in 1999, which was produced by George at The Warehouse Studio in Vancouver. Released in February 2000, it was better received by critics than Ballbreaker but was considered lacking in new ideas.[137][138] The title track was issued as a single in January 2000, which remained at number one on the US Mainstream Rock charts for four weeks.[118] The other singles, "Satellite Blues" and "Safe in New York City", reached number one and number seven, respectively, on the same chart.[118] The band signed a long-term, multi-album deal with Sony Music in December 2002,[139] which issued their remasters series.[140] In 2003, the entire back catalogue – except Ballbreaker and Stiff Upper Lip – was remastered and reissued.[141] Ballbreaker and Stiff Upper Lip were reissued in the UK in 2004.[142] Later in 2003, AC/DC were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The band's 2003 lineup (Johnson, Williams, Rudd, Angus Young, and Malcolm Young), in addition to Scott, were the inductees. Notably, former bassist Mark Evans (who appeared on four albums in the 1970s) was initially announced as an inductee, but six weeks after the announcement, his inclusion was quietly omitted.[143][144]

The group performed at Molson Canadian Rocks for Toronto, supporting the Rolling Stones, with Rush and other artists, on 30 July 2003. The benefit concert assisted the city's tourism industry, which was negatively impacted by the 2003 severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak. The audience of 450,000 set a record for the largest paid music event in Canadian history.[145] The band came second in a list of Australia's highest-earning entertainers for 2005,[146] and sixth in the following year.[147] Verizon made all the albums, including the Live at Donington video, available for digital download in 2007.[148] AC/DC released video compilations Family Jewels on 28 March 2005,[149] and Plug Me In on 16 October 2007.[150] No Bull: The Directors Cut, a newly edited, comprehensive Blu-ray and DVD of the band's July 1996 Plaza De Toros de las Ventas concert in Madrid, Spain, was released on 9 September 2008.[151]

AC/DC shown on stage with huge screens either side depicting Angus on guitar. He is actually at extreme stage right the rest of the band at centre stage. They are beneath a huge steam engine, tilted slightly upwards, with AC/DC's logo on its side.
AC/DC's Black Ice World Tour, performed in Madrid in 2009

Black Ice, their fifteenth studio album, was released in Australia on 18 October 2008,[152] and issued worldwide two days later.[153] Produced by Brendan O'Brien and mixed and engineered by Mike Fraser, its 15 tracks were their first studio recordings in eight years. Like Stiff Upper Lip, it was recorded at The Warehouse Studio in Vancouver.[154] It was sold in the US exclusively at Wal-Mart, Sam's Club and the band's official website.[153] Black Ice reached number one in 29 countries,[155] including Australia,[156] the UK,[86] and the US.[65] "Rock 'n' Roll Train", the album's first single, was released to radio on 28 August.[157]

The Black Ice World Tour was announced on 11 September 2008 and began on 28 October in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.[158] It then concluded with its final show in Bilbao, Spain, on 28 June 2010, after 20 months in which the band went to 108 cities in over 28 countries, with an estimated total audience of over 4.9 million.[159] On 15 September 2008, AC/DC Radio debuted on Sirius Channel 19 and XM Channel 53, which plays their music along with band member interviews.[160][161]

On 29 September 2009, the band announced a collection of studio and live rarities, Backtracks, which was released on 10 November as a 2×CD and DVD standard edition, or 3×CD, 2×DVD and LP deluxe edition box set.[162] On 4 November, AC/DC were announced as the Business Review Weekly top Australian earner in entertainment for 2009, with earnings of $105 million. This displaced the Wiggles from the number-one spot for the first time in four years.[163] On 19 April 2010, AC/DC released Iron Man 2, the soundtrack for the eponymous film, which compiled earlier tracks from the band's studio albums.[164]

Angus, aged 55, stand atop a large, high pedestal. He is bare-chested and without his cap, he wears shorts while playing his guitar.
Angus performing in Paris in 2010

The band headlined the Download Festival at Donington Park in June 2010.[165] Three concerts in December 2009 at the River Plate Stadium in Argentina were released on a video album, Live at River Plate via DVD on 10 May 2011.[166] An exclusive single from the DVD, featuring the songs "Shoot to Thrill" and "War Machine", was issued on Record Store Day, April 2011.[167] AC/DC released their first live audio album in 20 years, Live at River Plate, on 19 November 2012.[168]

In June 2011, AC/DC reissued their concert film, AC/DC: Let There Be Rock, on DVD and Blu-ray.[169] The entire catalogue – excluding T.N.T. (1975) and the Australian versions of High Voltage (1975), Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (1976) and Let There Be Rock (1977), became available on the iTunes Store the same day.[170] At the conclusion of the Black Ice World Tour in 2010, Malcolm had been diagnosed with lung cancer. It was treated at an early stage and surgery was successful with cancerous tissue removed. He also had an unspecified heart problem and had a pacemaker fitted.[171]

2014–2018: Malcolm Young retires and hiatus

Four AC/DC members are shown from stage left; Johnson singing at front, Angus in red uniform with guitar, Stevie further right on guitar and Williams back left on guitar and singing.
AC/DC's Rock or Bust World Tour, performed in Barcelona in 2015

Malcolm became seriously ill in April 2014 and was unable to continue performing; fans speculated that the group could disband.[172] However, Johnson stated that despite Malcolm's absence, they would return to Vancouver to record their sixteenth studio album, Rock or Bust.[173] In July, AC/DC announced that they had finished recording it and that Stevie had replaced Malcolm in the studio.[174] On 23 September, AC/DC members confirmed that Malcolm had officially retired from performing.[175] Malcolm's last show with the group had been on 28 June 2010 in Bilbao, Spain;[176] he died on 18 November 2017 at the age of 64 due to his dementia.[177] Rudd confirmed that there would be another AC/DC tour and that they had no intention of retiring.[178]

On 23 September 2014, The band revealed that Rock or Bust, featuring eleven tracks, would be released on 28 November as the first AC/DC album in the band's history without Malcolm on the recordings,[175] nevertheless all its compositions were credited to Angus and Malcolm.[179] The album reached number one in Australia,[180] Canada,[181] Germany,[182] and the UK.[86] The band also announced their supporting world tour, with Stevie as Malcolm's replacement.[183]

Rudd was charged with threatening to kill, possession of methamphetamine and possession of cannabis following a police raid on his home on 6 November 2014.[184] AC/DC's members issued a statement clarifying that the tour promoting Rock or Bust would continue but did not indicate whether or not Rudd would participate or whether he was still a member.[185] At a charity signing before the Grammy Awards, the band were photographed together with Slade. It was later confirmed that he had rejoined for the Grammys and tour.[186] In April 2015, Rudd pleaded guilty to drug and threatening to kill charges.[187] Shortly thereafter, the band's website showed that Rudd was replaced by Slade on drums.[188] On 9 July 2015, Rudd was sentenced to eight months of home detention.[189]

AC/DC with touring, lead vocalist Axl Rose, aged 44, shown in right profile both on screen and centre stage. He wears a black hat, T-shirt and jeans with gold jewellery. Chris Slade on drums is shown on screen but obscured on stage. Stevie is at right stage, Angus in white shirt and dark shorts to Rose's left, Williams in black at stage left.
AC/DC with Axl Rose (centre and top left), performing in Washington, D.C., in 2016

On 7 March 2016, the band announced that the final ten dates of the Rock or Bust World Tour would be rescheduled as Johnson's doctors had ordered him to stop touring immediately; he risked complete deafness if he persisted. The ten cancelled dates were to be rescheduled, "likely with a guest vocalist" later in the year, leaving Johnson's future in touring with the group uncertain.[190] On 16 April 2016, Guns N' Roses frontman Axl Rose was announced as the lead vocalist for the remainder of their 2016 tour dates.[191]

Williams indicated he was leaving AC/DC during an interview with Gulfshore Life's Jonathan Foerste on 8 July 2016. "It's been what I've known for the past 40 years, but after this tour I'm backing off of touring and recording. Losing Malcolm, the thing with [Rudd] and now with [Johnson], it's a changed animal. I feel in my gut it's the right thing."[192] At the end of the Rock or Bust World Tour, he released a video statement confirming his departure.[193] His last show with AC/DC before the hiatus was in Philadelphia on 20 September 2016.[194] After completing the tour in 2016, AC/DC went on hiatus. George Young died on 22 October 2017, aged 70.[195]

2018–present: Reunion and Power Up

In August 2018, speculation grew that former members Johnson and Rudd were back working with the band. A fan living near The Warehouse Studio, Vancouver claimed to have observed them in the outdoor area of the studio from an apartment window.[196] Shortly afterwards, a photograph of Johnson with Williams at the gymnasium of the Living Shangri-La hotel in Vancouver in December 2018 surfaced, indicating that Williams had also rejoined.[197] AC/DC then confirmed on 30 September 2020 the return of Johnson, Rudd and Williams to the line-up alongside Angus and Stevie, reuniting the Rock or Bust line-up.[198]

On 28 September 2020, the band updated their social media accounts posting a teaser video, which led to speculation of their "comeback, possibly as early as this week or next week."[199] On 1 October, AC/DC released a snippet of their new song "Shot in the Dark".[200] On 7 October, the band confirmed the upcoming release on 13 November of their next studio album, Power Up and issued "Shot in the Dark" as its lead single from the album.[201] The album's track listing was revealed on their website the same day.[202] They had recorded it in August–September 2018 with O'Brien producing at The Warehouse Studio in Vancouver, with some tweaking in Los Angeles in 2019.[203][204]

Chaney, aged 52, holds his guitar firmly. He wears a blue T-shirt and blue pants.
Chris Chaney (pictured in 2022) replaced Williams on bass guitar for the Power Up Tour.[205]

AC/DC launched a dive bar on 2 October 2023, located at Club 5 Bar in Indio, called the High Voltage Dive Bar.[206] AC/DC performed a co-headlining act for the Power Trip music festival at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, on 7 October, which was their first show in seven years,[207] with Williams being part of the line-up after coming out of retirement,[208] and American drummer Matt Laug, who had previously played for Slash's Snakepit and Alice Cooper, replacing Rudd.[209] The band hinted at another tour to occur in 2024;[210] the mayor of Munich, Dieter Reiter, confirmed that they had booked a show in the Olympic Stadium for 12 June 2024.[211] Founding drummer Colin Burgess died on 16 December 2023, aged 77.[212]

On 6 February 2024, the band published a teaser on their social media accounts, showing the band's lightning bolt symbol flickering before the words "Are You Ready" appear and their song of the same name plays.[213] This led to fans speculating that they would come back to touring after eight years.[214] On 12 February, the Power Up Tour was announced, with former Jane's Addiction bass guitarist Chris Chaney replacing Williams.[215] The European leg of the tour began on 17 May and concluded on 17 August, with American band the Pretty Reckless as their support act for all 24 performances.[205] AC/DC reissued their entire catalogue on gold vinyl for their 50th anniversary on 15 March 21 June and 27 September 2024, as part of the AC/DC 50 series.[216][217][218] They have also reissued two Australasia-only albums – High Voltage and T.N.T. (both 1975), only available at the High Voltage Dive Bar.[219]

Musical style

Aside from an early flirtation with glam rock, the group's sound and performance style are based on Australian pub rock.[1][7][220] That style was pioneered by Lobby Loyde of Billy Thorpe's early 1970s group, the Aztecs.[221] Vanda noted "the pub crowd as an audience demanded blood—'or else'." He described wanting to "recreate the real Australian pub sound—'not like that American sound, smooth and creamy, nicey, nicey.'"[222] Glenn A. Baker felt they played "rib-crushing, blood-curdling, brain damaging, no bullshit, thunder rock".[223]

The Canberra Times' Tony Catterall reviewed T.N.T., in which "[they] wallow in the lumpen proletarianism that's the home of punk rock" while comparing them with rivals Buster Brown, which are "more imaginative and musically better".[224] Music journalist Ed Nimmervoll summarised, "If we tried to isolate what has characterised Australian rock and roll from the rest of the world's it would be music that's made to be played live, and gets right down to basics with a minimum of distraction. [...] AC/DC captured that essence not long after it crystallised, and they have continued to carry that creed around the world as their own."[8]

According to Vulture music journalist David Marchese, the instrumental foundation of the band's simple sound was the drummer—Rudd, Wright, or Slade—striking the kick drum on the first and third beat of every measure and the snare drum on the second and fourth beat; bass guitarist Williams consistently down-picking an eighth note; Angus performing lead parts that possessed "a clear architecture and even sort of swing, in a frenzied, half-demented way"; and Malcolm's "propulsive" yet nuanced rhythm guitar featuring "little chuks, stutters, and silences that give the monstrous riffs life."[225]

For the majority of Malcolm's tenure in AC/DC, he used a Marshall Super Bass head to amplify his rhythm guitar while recording in the studio. According to Chris Gill of Guitar World, this amplifier helped define his signature guitar tone: "clean but as loud as possible to ride on the razor's edge of power amp distortion and deliver the ideal combination of grind, twang, clang and crunch, with no distorted preamp 'hair,' fizz or compression", as heard on songs such as "Let There Be Rock", "Dirty Deeds", "For Those About to Rock" and "Thunderstruck". During 1978 to 1980, Malcolm used a Marshall 2203 100-watt master volume head, which Gill speculates may have contributed to a "slightly more distorted and dark" guitar tone on the albums from that period, including Powerage and Back in Black.[226]

In a comparison of AC/DC's vocalists, Robert Christgau said Scott exhibited a "blokelike croak" and "charm", often singing about sexual aggression under the guise of fun: "Like Ian Hunter or Roger Chapman though without their panache, he has fun being a dirty young man".[227] Johnson, in his opinion, possessed "three times the range and wattage" of a vocalist while projecting the character of a "bloke as fantasy-fiction demigod".[227] By the time Johnson had fully acclimated himself to 1981's For Those About to Rock We Salute You, Christgau said he defined "an anthemic grandiosity more suitable to [the band's] precious-metal status than [Scott]'s old-fashioned raunch", albeit in a less intelligent manner.[227]

Influences

AC/DC's influences include the Rolling Stones, Chuck Berry, Billy Thorpe, the Easybeats and Vanda & Young.[1][7][228] The impact of Australian pub rock on AC/DC was documented on ABC's Long Way to the Top (2001).[229] Angus reflected on his playing style: "A lot of it was nerves at first. It was George that told me if you get on stage and play guitar you want to let people know you are doing something. When I started in the band I was shy and had to push myself forward. [...] [Patrons] would be throwing beer cans and I thought 'just keep moving' and that's how it all started."[229] George had taught both Malcolm and Angus "how to play guitar, and playing them classic rock and roll and blues records until that music was like blood in their veins."[8] According to Long Way to the Top's writers, "[t]he hardships of the Australian road would complete AC/DC's training. [Scott] revelled in the lifestyle. Somehow he rose above all the substance abuse to become the ultimate rock and roll front man."[229]

Genres

AC/DC's music has been variously described as hard rock,[230] blues rock,[231] and heavy metal,[232] but they have referred to themselves as "a rock and roll band, nothing more, nothing less".[66] Malcolm recalled honing their craft. "We'd been playing up to four gigs a day. That really shaped the band... It was a mix of screw you, Jack, and having a good time and all being pretty tough guys... The training ground was Melbourne."[233] In the opinion of Stephen Thomas Erlewine of AllMusic, they are "one of the defining acts of '70s hard rock" and reactionary to the period's art rock and arena rock excesses. "AC/DC's rock was minimalist – no matter how huge and bludgeoning their guitar chords were, there was a clear sense of space and restraint."[234] According to Alexis Petridis, their music is "hard-edged, wilfully basic blues-rock," featuring humorous sexual innuendo and lyrics about rock and roll.[235] Music academic Robert McParland described the band's sound as being defined by the heavy rock guitar of the Young brothers, layered power chords and forceful vocals.[231] "For some, AC/DC are the ultimate heavy metal act," Tim Jonze wrote in The Guardian, "but for others, AC/DC aren't a heavy metal act at all, they're a classic rock band – and calling them heavy metal is an act of treachery."[236] On the controversy of categorising their music, McParland wrote:[231]

AC/DC will assert that they are not specifically a metal band. Their music—loud, hard, and guitar-driven—may best be described as hard rock. However, there are people who will say that they are indisputably metal. Therein lies the ongoing problem of categorisation. While AC/DC has referenced the underworld and they have given their listeners 'Highway to Hell' and 'Hell's Bells,' their songs are constructed on straightforward major and minor power chords. They are not modally developed as are a good deal of heavy metal compositions. Their sound is loud and crisp, not muddy or down-tuned.

With the recording of Back in Black in 1980, rock journalist Joe S. Harrington believed the band had departed further from the blues-oriented rock of their previous albums and toward a more dynamic attack that adopted punk rock's "high-energy implications" and transmuted their hard rock/heavy metal songs into "more pop-oriented blasts". The band would remain faithful to this "impeccably ham-handed" musical style for the remainder of their career: "the guitars were compacted into a singular statement of rhythmic efficiency, the rhythm section provided the thunderhorse overdrive and vocalist Johnson bellowed and brayed like the most unhinged practitioner of bluesy top-man dynamics since vintage Robert Plant."[237]

Legacy

Pinball machine in the style of AC/DC. The artwork shows the AC/DC logo in between the words "Hell Ain't a Bad Place to Be" with the logo's high voltage symbol at the beginning and end of the words, and a hand-drawn woman with black hair, devil horns and a black bikini, standing in lava with fire in the background.
AC/DC themed pinball machine, pictured in Seattle in 2024

Several musicians have credited AC/DC for reasserting hard rock's popularity after it had ceded mainstream attention to other musical genres in the late 1970s.[238][239] Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave noted of Back in Black's release: "Disco was huge and punk and new wave were ascendant, and along came this AC/DC record which just destroyed everybody. It put hard rock music back on the throne, where it belongs!"[239]

AC/DC's music was a formative influence on the new wave of British heavy metal bands that emerged in the late 1970s, such as Saxon and Def Leppard, in part as a reaction to the decline of traditional early 1970s hard rock bands. In 2007, critics noted that AC/DC, along with Thin Lizzy, UFO, Scorpions and Judas Priest, were among "the second generation of rising stars ready to step into the breach as the old guard waned."[240] Over the years, many prominent rock musicians have cited AC/DC as an influence, including Dave Mustaine of Megadeth,[241] Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age and Kyuss,[242] Dave Grohl of Nirvana and Foo Fighters,[243] Scott Ian of Anthrax,[244] Eric Peterson of Testament,[245] Dexter Holland of the Offspring;[246] Brian Baker of Bad Religion, Minor Threat, Dag Nasty and Junkyard,[247] and bands such as Airbourne,[248] Metallica,[249] Slayer,[250] Exodus,[251] the Cult,[252] and the Living End.[253] Australian acts formed in AC/DC's footsteps are Rose Tattoo and the Angels.[229] Chrissy Amphlett of Australian rockers Divinyls acknowledged Angus' schoolboy outfit as the inspiration for her performing in a schoolgirl's uniform.[254]

Gene Simmons of hard rock contemporaries Kiss remarked, "a lot of people look the same and act the same and do the same thing. Every once in a while you see a band like AC/DC. Nobody's like them. We'd like to think we're unique in that way too."[255] Slash of Guns N' Roses called them "with the exception of the [Rolling] Stones, the greatest rock 'n' roll band ever."[256] "I always liked them," said Australian compatriot and singer-songwriter Nick Cave. "We had this TV show called Countdown and they were often on and they were always a riot and absolutely unique. They were a heavy rock band, but Bon Scott would go on Countdown dressed as a schoolgirl and stuff like that. They were always very anarchic and never took the thing too seriously."[257]

AC/DC and other artists (see Filthy Fifteen) ran afoul of the Satanic panic of the 1980s. This general fear of modern hard rock and heavy metal was greatly increased in the band's case when serial killer Richard Ramirez was arrested. Ramirez, nicknamed the "Night Stalker" by the press, told police that "Night Prowler" from Highway to Hell had driven him to commit murder.[258] Police also claimed that Ramirez was wearing an AC/DC shirt and left an AC/DC hat at one of the crime scenes.[259] Accusations that AC/DC were devil worshippers were made, the lyrics of "Night Prowler" were analysed and some newspapers attempted to link Ramirez's Satanism with AC/DC's name,[260] concluding that AC/DC stood for Anti-Christ/Devil's Child or Devil's Children.[261]

Lyrics assessment

Throughout the band's career, their songs have been criticised as simplistic,[262] monotonous,[263] deliberately lowbrow and sexist.[264] David Marchese from Vulture wrote that "regardless of the lyricist, whether it was Scott (who was capable of real wit and colour), Johnson, or the Young brothers, there's a deep strain of misogyny in the band's output that veers from feeling terribly dated to straight-up reprehensible."[225] According to Christgau in 1988, "the brutal truth is that sexism has never kept a great rock-and-roller down—from Muddy to Lemmy, lots of dynamite music has objectified women in objectionable ways. But rotely is not among those ways", in regards to AC/DC.[227]

Fans of the band have defended their music by highlighting its "bawdy humour",[265] while members of the group have generally been dismissive of claims that their songs are sexist, arguing that they are meant to be in jest.[225] In an interview with Sylvie Simmons for Mojo, Angus called the band "pranksters more than anything else," while Malcolm said, "We're not like some macho band. We take the music far more seriously than we take the lyrics, which are just throwaway lines."[265] Marchese regarded the musical aspect of the Youngs' songs as "strong enough to render the words a functional afterthought" as well as "deceptively plain, devastatingly effective, and extremely lucrative."[225]

For the book Under My Thumb: Songs That Hate Women and the Women Who Love Them, The Guardian arts critic Fiona Sturges contributed an essay evaluating her love for AC/DC. While acknowledging she is a feminist and that the band's music is problematic for her, she believed it would be "daft as opposed to damaging" for female listeners if they could understand the band to be "a bunch of archly sex-obsessed idiots with sharp tunes and some seriously killer riffs". Despite the "unpleasant sneering quality" of "Carry Me Home"'s claims about a woman who "ain't no lady", the "rape fantasy" of "Let Me Put My Love into You" and the generally one-dimensional portrayals of women, Sturges said songs such as "Whole Lotta Rosie" and "You Shook Me All Night Long" demonstrated that the female characters "are also having a good time and are, more often than not, in the driving seat in sexual terms. [...] [I]t's the men who come over as passive and hopeless, awestruck in the presence of sexual partners more experienced and adept than them."[265]

Awards and achievements

Main article: List of awards and nominations received by AC/DC
All caps "ACDC" (no dash, no space) followed by "Lane" are seen in off-white lettering on midnight blue background. They are preceded by an off-white stylised M and a feather. Above and below the sign is a mid-blue lightning bolt bordered in white. Both are attached to a brick wall with visible, security head screws. The wall has partly torn, unrelated promotional posters.
The street sign for ACDC Lane, Melbourne

The band's first ever nomination at an award show was from the American Music Awards of 1982 for Favorite Pop/Rock Band/Duo/Group.[266] In 1988, AC/DC were inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame.[107] The municipality of Leganés, near Madrid, named a street in honour of the band "Calle de AC/DC" (English: "AC/DC Street") on 22 March 2000. Malcolm and Angus attended the inauguration with many fans.[267] The plaque had since been stolen numerous times, forcing the municipality of Leganés to begin selling replicas of the official street plaque.[268]

On 1 October 2004, a central Melbourne thoroughfare, Corporation Lane, was renamed ACDC Lane in honour of the band. The City of Melbourne forbade the use of the slash character in street names, so the four letters were combined.[269] The lane is near Swanston Street, where, on the back of a truck, the band recorded their video for "It's a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock 'n' Roll)".[270]

AC/DC were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on 10 March 2003.[143] During the ceremony, the band performed "Highway to Hell" and "You Shook Me All Night Long", with guest vocals provided by host Steven Tyler of Aerosmith. He described the band's power chords as "the thunder from down under that gives you the second most powerful surge that can flow through your body."[271] During the acceptance speech, Johnson quoted their 1977 song "Let There Be Rock".[272] In May 2003, the Young brothers accepted a Ted Albert Award for Outstanding Service to Australian Music at the APRA Music Awards of 2003, during which Malcolm paid special tribute to Scott, who was also a recipient of the award.[273]

In 2003, Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums of All Time list included Back in Black at number 73,[274] and Highway to Hell at number 199.[275] They also ranked number 72 on the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time, as American record producer Rick Rubin wrote an essay calling them the "greatest rock & roll band of all time."[276] In 2004, on their 500 Greatest Songs of All Time list, Rolling Stone included "Back in Black" at number 187[277] and "Highway to Hell" at number 254.[278] They ranked number four on VH1's list of the 100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock,[279] and number seven on MTV's Greatest Heavy Metal Band of All Time.[280] They ranked number 23 on VH1's list of the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time in 2010.[281] On 20 November 2015, the band were inducted into the Music Victoria Awards 10th Anniversary Hall of Fame. Angus offered a statement, in which he declared it was "an absolute honour" to be recognised in the tenth year of the Hall of Fame.[282]

They sold over 1.3 million CDs in the US during 2007.[283] In 50 years of the band's career, they have sold over 200 million albums worldwide,[284] and 84 million in the US, according to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), which AC/DC the fourth best-selling band in US history and the eighth best-selling artist, selling more albums than Elton John and Mariah Carey.[285] The RIAA also certified Back in Black as 27× Platinum, for 27 million in US sales, which made it the fourth best-selling album of all time in the US.[286]

Band members

Main article: List of AC/DC members

Current members

  • Angus Young – lead guitar, occasional backing vocals (1973–present)
  • Phil Rudd – drums (1975–1983, 1994–2015, 2018–present; not touring since 2023)
  • Cliff Williams – bass guitar, backing vocals (1977–2016, 2018–present; not touring since 2024)
  • Brian Johnson – lead vocals (1980–2016, 2018–present)
  • Stevie Young – rhythm guitar, backing vocals (2014–present; touring 1988)

Touring musicians

Current touring musicians

Former touring musicians

  • George Young – bass guitar, rhythm guitar, drums, backing vocals (1974–1975; died 2017)
  • Denis Loughlin – lead vocals (1974; died 2019)
  • Bruce Howe – bass guitar (1975)[287]
  • Paul Greg – bass guitar (1991)[288]
  • Axl Rose – lead vocals (2016)

Former members

  • Malcolm Young – rhythm guitar, backing vocals (1973–2014; died 2017)
  • Colin Burgess – drums (1973–1974; substituted 1975; died 2023)
  • Larry Van Kriedt – bass guitar (1973–1974, 1975)
  • Dave Evans – lead vocals (1973–1974)
  • Neil Smith – bass guitar (1974; died 2013)
  • Ron Carpenter – drums (1974)
  • Russell Coleman – drums (1974)
  • Noel Taylor – drums (1974)
  • Rob Bailey – bass (1974–1975)
  • Peter Clack – drums (1974–1975)
  • Bon Scott – lead vocals (1974–1980; his death)
  • Paul Matters – bass guitar (1975; died 2020)
  • Mark Evans – bass guitar (1975–1977)
  • Simon Wright – drums (1983–1989)
  • Chris Slade – drums (1989–1994; touring 2015–2016)

Discography

Main articles: AC/DC discography and List of songs recorded by AC/DC

Studio albums

Concert tours

See also

Notes

  1. ^ The album was released on 20 September 1976 in Australasia,[45] then it was released in Europe on 12 November 1976.[46]
  2. ^ The album was released less than 2 months later on 21 March 1977 in Australasia,[54] then the international version was released on 23 June 1977.[55]

References

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x Kimball, Duncan. "AC/DC". Milesago: Australasian Music and Popular Culture 1964–1975. Ice Productions. Archived from the original on 17 January 2024. Retrieved 7 May 2024.
  2. ^ a b Kimball, Duncan. "An Overview". Milesago: Australasian Music and Popular Culture 1964–1975. Ice Productions. Archived from the original on 19 April 2023. Retrieved 7 May 2023.
  3. ^ McFarlane 1999, entry for the Easybeats.
  4. ^ McFarlane 1999, entry for the Masters Apprentices.
  5. ^ McFarlane 1999, entry for Sherbet.
  6. ^ McFarlane 1999, entry for Skyhooks.
  7. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w
  8. ^ a b c d e f g h Nimmervoll, Ed. "AC/DC". Howlspace – The Living History of Our Music. Archived from the original on 26 July 2012. Retrieved 26 September 2023. n.b. Incorrectly spells "Currenti" as "Kerrante".
  9. ^ McFarlane, Ian (2017). "Marcus Hook Roll Band". Third Stone Press. Archived from the original on 1 March 2024. Retrieved 16 March 2024.
  10. ^ McFarlane 1999, entry for Flash and the Pan.
  11. ^ Engleheart & Durieux 2006, p. 46.
  12. ^ Engleheart & Durieux 2006, pp. 46, 50.
  13. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 20.
  14. ^ Donovan, Patrick (17 May 2004). "Tracker to Acca Dacca". The Age. Melbourne, Australia. Archived from the original on 18 December 2008. Retrieved 18 October 2008.
  15. ^ Behr, Adam (31 July 2020). "AC/DC's Back in Black at 40 – Establishing Rock Bands as Brands". The Bulletin. Archived from the original on 29 October 2022. Retrieved 26 September 2023 – via National Library of Australia.
  16. ^ a b staff writers (3 June 2016). "A Short History of Angus Young's School Uniforms". LouderSound. Archived from the original on 11 July 2019. Retrieved 18 September 2023.
  17. ^ "Angus Young of AC/DC". Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). 2011. Archived from the original on 24 March 2012. Retrieved 27 December 2023 – via National Library of Australia. n.b. Click "6" to see Angus in the Superman costume and click "10" to see him in the Zorro costume.
  18. ^ a b Stenning & Johnstone 2005, pp. 32–34.
  19. ^ a b c d e Holmgren, Magnus. "AC/DC". Australian Rock Database. Archived from the original on 6 December 2003. Retrieved 25 September 2023.
  20. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 21.
  21. ^ Baker, Glenn A. (18 December 2023). "Original Drummer with AC/DC Lived Rock'n'roll Lifestyle". The Sydney Morning Herald. Archived from the original on 18 December 2023. Retrieved 26 December 2023.
  22. ^ a b staff writer (19 October 2020). "Australian Bassist Paul Matters, an Early Member of AC/DC, Has Died". The Music Network. Archived from the original on 19 October 2020. Retrieved 31 December 2023.
  23. ^ "AC/DC Lineup Changes: A Complete Guide". Ultimate Classic Rock. 18 April 2016. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 19 August 2023.
  24. ^ Engleheart & Durieux 2006, p. 60.
  25. ^ a b c d e f g h i Kent 1993, p. 11.
  26. ^ Engleheart & Durieux 2006, p. 62.
  27. ^ Browning 2014, p. 108.
  28. ^ Browning 2014, p. 110.
  29. ^ Browning 2014, pp. 114–115.
  30. ^ Browning 2014, pp. 115–120.
  31. ^ Cockington 2001, pp. 198–201.
  32. ^ Browne, Geoff (2018). "Ronald Belford (Bon) Scott (1946–1980)". Australian Dictionary of Biography. Archived from the original on 23 March 2024. Retrieved 7 May 2024.
  33. ^ DiVita, Joe (19 February 2021). "Bon Scott Reveals How AC/DC Hired Him in Newly Uploaded 1976 Interview". Loudwire. Archived from the original on 21 February 2021. Retrieved 3 July 2024.
  34. ^ DeRiso, Nick (5 October 2015) [5 October 2014]. "The Day AC/DC Played Their First Concert With Bon Scott". Ultimate Classic Rock. Archived from the original on 6 October 2014. Retrieved 12 March 2024.
  35. ^ Engleheart & Durieux 2006, pp. 91–92.
  36. ^ Engleheart & Durieux 2006, p. 107.
  37. ^ Walker 2006, p. 142.
  38. ^ Hung, Steffen. "Discography AC/DC". New Zealand Charts Portal (Hung Medien). Retrieved 26 September 2023.
  39. ^ Wall 2012, p. 160.
  40. ^ Bastow, Clem (25 March 2014). "Australian Anthems: AC/DC – 'It's a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock 'n' Roll)'". The Guardian. Archived from the original on 25 March 2014. Retrieved 24 February 2024.
  41. ^ a b c Fricke, David (15 April 2015). "Flashback: AC/DC Refuses to Give Up and Rocks On". Rolling Stone Australia. Archived from the original on 3 December 2020. Retrieved 27 December 2023.
  42. ^ Browning 2014, p. 165.
  43. ^ "American Album Certifications – AC/DC – High Voltage". Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Retrieved 19 September 2023.
  44. ^ Atlantic Records 1976a.
  45. ^ Durieux, Arnaud. "AC/DC Discography: Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (Australia)". ac-dc.net. Archived from the original on 24 December 2016. Retrieved 27 June 2024.
  46. ^ Durieux, Arnaud. "AC/DC Discography: Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap". ac-dc.net. Archived from the original on 24 December 2016. Retrieved 11 November 2023.
  47. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 56.
  48. ^ Engleheart & Durieux 2006, p. 166.
  49. ^ Atlantic Records 1976b.
  50. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 57.
  51. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 185.
  52. ^ Masino 2015, p. 137.
  53. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 49.
  54. ^ Durieux, Arnaud. "AC/DC Discography: Let There Be Rock (Australia)". ac-dc.net. Archived from the original on 15 August 2019. Retrieved 11 November 2023.
  55. ^ Albert Productions & Epic Records 2003.
  56. ^ Wall, Mick (7 May 2016). "Let There Be Rock: The Album that Saved AC/DC's Career". Classic Rock. Archived from the original on 24 October 2018. Retrieved 23 October 2018.
  57. ^ Walker 2006, p. 200.
  58. ^ Johnston, Mandi (19 November 2012). "Review: Dirty Deeds, My Life Inside/Outside of AC/DC, Mark Evans". Mums Lounge. Archived from the original on 11 April 2013. Retrieved 21 September 2023 – via National Library of Australia.
  59. ^ Fink 2013, pp. 107–111.
  60. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 67.
  61. ^ Prato, Greg. "AC/DC – Powerage". AllMusic. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  62. ^ Rivadavia, Eduardo (13 October 2023) [13 October 2013]. "How AC/DC Elevated Their Career with the Live If You Want Blood, You've Got It". Ultimate Classic Rock. Archived from the original on 18 April 2016. Retrieved 27 December 2023.
  63. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 89.
  64. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 101.
  65. ^ a b c d e "AC/DC Chart History (Billboard 200)". Billboard. Retrieved 3 September 2023.
  66. ^ a b Engleheart 1997.
  67. ^ Huey, Steve. "AC/DC – Highway to Hell". AllMusic. Archived from the original on 22 July 2011. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  68. ^ a b Kielty, Martin (21 August 2020). "Angus Young Still Suffers from Stage Fright / 40 Facts About AC/DC's Back in Black / Bon Scott Played Drums on Some of the Demos". Ultimate Classic Rock. Archived from the original on 26 September 2023. Retrieved 22 August 2020.
  69. ^ a b Elliott 2018, p. 106.
  70. ^ "Rock Singer, Left in Car to 'Sober Up', Found Dead". The Los Angeles Times. 20 February 1980. Retrieved 2 November 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
  71. ^ "Alcohol Blamed for Singer's Death". The Sydney Morning Herald. 23 February 1980. Retrieved 20 August 2024 – via Newspapers.com.
  72. ^ "Bon's Highway Leads to the National Trust". Metropolitan Cemeteries Board. 15 February 2006. Archived from the original on 16 November 2007. Retrieved 9 December 2007.
  73. ^ Wall 2012, p. 315.
  74. ^ Engleheart & Durieux 2006, p. 318.
  75. ^ Engleheart & Durieux 2006, p. 308.
  76. ^ Fink 2017, pp. 367–368.
  77. ^ Darlington, Andrew. "Straight from His Own Gob – Noddy Holder". Soundchecks.co.uk. Archived from the original on 5 April 2005. Retrieved 9 April 2011.
  78. ^ Fink 2013, pp. 211–212.
  79. ^ Engleheart & Durieux 2006, p. 309.
  80. ^ Harbron, Lucy (8 February 2024). "The Song Brian Johnson Sang for His AC/DC Audition". Far Out. Archived from the original on 6 March 2024. Retrieved 6 March 2024.
  81. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 121.
  82. ^ Engleheart & Durieux 2006, pp. 317–318.
  83. ^ Henderson, Tim (18 February 2010). "AC/DC Guitarist Angus Young Remembers Bon Scott – 'When I Think Back in Hindsight, He Was a Guy That I Always Knew Was Full of Life'". Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles. Archived from the original on 8 July 2011. Retrieved 9 April 2011.
  84. ^ Engleheart & Durieux 2006, p. 319–320.
  85. ^ Rivadavia, Eduardo (1 April 2015). "How Happenstance Originally Brought Brian Johnson to AC/DC". Ultimate Classic Rock. Archived from the original on 3 September 2023. Retrieved 3 September 2023.
  86. ^ a b c d e f g h "AC/DC | Official Charts". Official Charts Company. Retrieved 3 September 2023.
  87. ^ "Image: RPM Weekly". RPM. No. 298. 30 August 2022. Retrieved 28 September 2023 – via Library and Archives Canada.
  88. ^ "AC/DC – French Charts". Les Charts. Retrieved 8 November 2013.
  89. ^ "AC/DC: Let There Be Rock (1980)". IMDb. Archived from the original on 2 July 2022. Retrieved 8 April 2024.
  90. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 153.
  91. ^ "Offizielle Deutsche Charts - For Those About to Rock We Salute You" (in German). GfK Entertainment. Retrieved 28 September 2023.
  92. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 150.
  93. ^ Elliott 2018, pp. 158, 167.
  94. ^ Huey, Steve. "AC/DC – Flick of the Switch". AllMusic. Archived from the original on 13 November 2010. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  95. ^ Fricke, David (27 October 1987). "AC/DC: Flick of the Switch". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 18 June 2008. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  96. ^ a b "Finnish Albums" (PDF). Suomen virallinen lista (in Finnish). p. 9. Retrieved 28 September 2023.
  97. ^ a b "AC/DC Chart History (Billboard Hot 100)". Billboard. Retrieved 19 September 2023.
  98. ^ Bremner, Nicole (9 July 2015). "Phil Rudd Warned He'll Go to Jail if He Drinks or Takes Drugs During Home Detention". OneNewsNow. Archived from the original on 4 August 2015. Retrieved 27 December 2023.
  99. ^ Lifton, Dave (19 July 2015). "Bad Boy Boogie: A Phil Rudd Timeline". Ultimate Classic Rock. Archived from the original on 31 July 2015. Retrieved 3 September 2023.
  100. ^ Engleheart & Durieux 2006, p. 368.
  101. ^ Engleheart & Durieux 2006, p. 367.
  102. ^ Huey, Steve. "AC/DC – Fly on the Wall". AllMusic. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  103. ^ McPadden, Mike (28 June 2015). "AC/DC's Fly on the Wall Turns 30: Rock Out with 30 Album Facts". VH1. Archived from the original on 4 September 2022. Retrieved 4 September 2023.
  104. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 164.
  105. ^ Michael, Christopher (30 June 2003). "Epic Records AC/DC Re-issues: Second Wave". PopMatters. Archived from the original on 14 April 2008. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  106. ^ Wiederhorn, Jon (24 May 2023). "37 Years Ago: AC/DC Release Who Made Who". Loudwire. Archived from the original on 8 June 2023. Retrieved 4 September 2023.
  107. ^ a b Middleton, Karen (3 March 1988). "Good Times – Music Awards: A Scratch on the Records". The Canberra Times. Vol. 62, no. 19, 142. p. 23. Retrieved 28 September 2023 – via National Library of Australia.
  108. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 169.
  109. ^ Prato, Greg. "AC/DC – Blow Up Your Video". AllMusic. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  110. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 173.
  111. ^ Henderson, Alex. "AC/DC – The Razors Edge Review". AllMusic. Archived from the original on 1 April 2019. Retrieved 27 December 2023.
  112. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 174.
  113. ^ Elliott 2018, pp. 174, 184.
  114. ^ Hung, Steffen. "AC/DC – The Razors Edge". Australian Charts Portal (Hung Medien). Retrieved 28 September 2023.
  115. ^ "Image: RPM Weekly". RPM. No. 9106. 8 December 1990. Retrieved 28 September 2023 – via Library and Archives Canada.
  116. ^ "Offizielle Deutsche Charts - The Razors Edge" (in German). GfK Entertainment. Retrieved 28 September 2023.
  117. ^ Hung, Steffen. "AC/DC Discography". Swiss Hitparade. Hung Medien. Archived from the original on 12 November 2012. Retrieved 28 September 2023.
  118. ^ a b c d "AC/DC Chart History (Mainstream Rock Airplay)". Billboard. Retrieved 3 September 2023.
  119. ^ Hung, Steffen. "AC/DC – 'Thunderstruck'". Australian Charts Portal (Hung Medien). Retrieved 20 September 2023.
  120. ^ Hung, Steffen. "AC/DC Discography". Hung Medien. Archived from the original on 1 December 2017. Retrieved 5 March 2024.
  121. ^ "American Album Certifications – AC/DC – The Razors Edge". Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Retrieved 20 September 2023.
  122. ^ Weber, Barry. "AC/DC – AC/DC Live". AllMusic. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  123. ^ Carter, Mike (24 January 1991). "AC/DC Says Band Stopped". The Daily Gazette. Salt Lake City, Utah. p. D14. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 4 September 2023.
  124. ^ "S.L. County Finds no Negligence in Concert Deaths". Deseret News. 9 February 1991. Archived from the original on 17 April 2014. Retrieved 16 April 2014.
  125. ^ "Families Settle Suits Over AC/DC Concert Deaths". Deseret News. 17 December 1992. Archived from the original on 6 March 2016. Retrieved 16 April 2014.
  126. ^ "List of the Most Crowded Music Concerts in History". The Economic Times. 8 November 2015. Archived from the original on 11 November 2020. Retrieved 22 May 2020.
  127. ^ Smith, Jay (30 December 2003). "News: AC/DC - Defenders of Metal". insertcredit.com. Archived from the original on 28 December 2017. Retrieved 19 March 2019.
  128. ^ Giles, Jeff (24 July 2014). "Chris Slade Reveals the Reason He Quit AC/DC, Hints at Firm Reunion". Ultimate Classic Rock. Archived from the original on 3 October 2023. Retrieved 9 May 2024.
  129. ^ a b c Durieux, Arnaud. "AC/DC Discography: Ballbreaker". ac-dc.net. Archived from the original on 24 December 2016. Retrieved 22 January 2024.
  130. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 183.
  131. ^ Elliott 2018, pp. 183, 186.
  132. ^ Hung, Steffen. "AC/DC – Ballbreaker". Australian Charts Portal (Hung Medien). Retrieved 28 September 2023.
  133. ^ a b Hung, Steffen. "Discography AC/DC". Sverigetopplistan (Hung Medien). Archived from the original on 3 November 2012. Retrieved 28 September 2023.
  134. ^ Elliott 2018, pp. 184, 186.
  135. ^ Erlewine, Stephen Thomas. "Bonfire – AC/DC: Songs, Reviews, Credits, Awards". AllMusic. Archived from the original on 14 June 2012. Retrieved 28 December 2023.
  136. ^ Elliott 2018, p. 184.
  137. ^ Wild, David (30 March 2000). "AC/DC: Stiff Upper Lip". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 27 July 2008. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  138. ^ Erlewine, Stephen Thomas. "AC/DC – Stiff Upper Lip". AllMusic. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  139. ^ Taylor, Chuck (21 December 2002). "Epic Signs AC/DC; Deal Includes Catalog Rerelease" (PDF). Billboard. Vol. 114, no. 51. p. 54. ISSN 0006-2510. Archived (PDF) from the original on 25 January 2021. Retrieved 17 June 2024.
  140. ^ Rivadavia, Eduardo. "AC/DC – Discography". AllMusic. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  141. ^ "Epic Rolls Out First AC/DC Reissues". Billboard. 30 January 2003. Archived from the original on 5 July 2015. Retrieved 18 February 2021.
  142. ^ "AC/DC: Sony/Epic Reissues Due This Month". Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles. 2 June 2004. Archived from the original on 3 June 2024. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  143. ^ a b Wes, Orshoski (22 March 2003). "U.K. '70s Punk Prevails at 18th Hall of Fame" (PDF). Billboard. Vol. 115, no. 12. p. 6. Archived (PDF) from the original on 21 January 2021. Retrieved 18 June 2024.
  144. ^ "Former AC/DC Bassist MARK EVANS Knocks ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME After Snub". Blabbermouth.net. 2 November 2022. Retrieved 29 October 2024.
  145. ^ "Stones Rock Out at Toronto's 'Biggest Party'". Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). 31 July 2003. Archived from the original on 30 June 2008. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  146. ^ Ziffer, Daniel (13 April 2006). "Wiggles Wriggle Back into Top Spot". The Age. Melbourne. Archived from the original on 16 June 2008. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  147. ^ Dunn, Emily (18 July 2007). "A Wobble, but the Wiggles Still Rule". The Sydney Morning Herald. Archived from the original on 15 October 2007. Retrieved 17 August 2007.
  148. ^ Bruno, Antony (1 August 2007). "AC/DC Goes Digital via Verizon Wireless". Reuters. Archived from the original on 29 December 2007. Retrieved 17 August 2007.
  149. ^ Durieux, Arnaud. "AC/DC Discography: Family Jewels". ac-dc.net. Archived from the original on 27 December 2016. Retrieved 27 January 2024.
  150. ^ "Latest Buzz – High Voltage" (PDF). Billboard. Vol. 119, no. 36. 8 September 2007. p. 46. ISSN 0006-2510. Archived (PDF) from the original on 21 January 2021. Retrieved 17 June 2024.
  151. ^ Cohen, Jonathan (18 August 2008). "AC/DC Sets Date, Track List for Black Ice". Billboard. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 4 September 2023.
  152. ^ Cashmere, Paul (3 October 2008). "AC/DC Black Ice Vinyl Goes Exclusive to Indies". Undercover News. Archived from the original on 20 March 2012. Retrieved 13 October 2023.
  153. ^ a b "AC/DC to Release First New Album in Eight Years". NME. 18 August 2008. Archived from the original on 28 November 2022. Retrieved 20 September 2023.
  154. ^ Tingen, Paul (January 2009). "Inside Track: AC/DC Black Ice". Sound on Sound. Archived from the original on 9 August 2022. Retrieved 4 September 2023.
  155. ^ "AC/DC Top Sales in 29 Countries". NME. 28 October 2008. Archived from the original on 23 September 2023. Retrieved 23 September 2023.
  156. ^ Hung, Steffen. "AC/DC – Black Ice". Australian Charts Portal (Hung Medien). Retrieved 20 September 2023.
  157. ^ Bosso, Joe (28 August 2008). "AC/DC Debut New Single, 'Rock 'N Roll Train'". MusicRadar. Archived from the original on 24 June 2021. Retrieved 4 September 2023.
  158. ^ "AC/DC Planning 24-Date Tour". Billboard. Associated Press. 11 September 2008. Archived from the original on 28 November 2022. Retrieved 20 September 2023 – via The Hollywood Reporter.
  159. ^ Rendon, Francisco (31 July 2019). "Ed Sheeran Concludes 'Divide' Tour, Sets All-Time Touring Record at $775.6M". Pollstar. Archived from the original on 2 October 2023. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  160. ^ "AC/DC Radio to Launch on Sirius". Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles. 16 September 2008. Archived from the original on 3 June 2024. Retrieved 4 September 2023.
  161. ^ "AC/DC to Host Their Own Exclusive Music Channel on Sirius and XM". Sirius. Archived from the original on 21 November 2008. Retrieved 12 September 2008.
  162. ^ "AC/DC Announce Backtracks Rarities and Collectors' Edition Set". NME. 29 September 2009. Archived from the original on 1 July 2022. Retrieved 29 August 2023.
  163. ^ "AC/DC Tops BRW Entertainment Rich List, Ahead of Kylie Minogue and the Wiggles". Herald Sun. 11 April 2009. Archived from the original on 14 June 2011. Retrieved 13 November 2009.
  164. ^ "AC/DC to Release Soundtrack to Iron Man 2". The West Australian. 27 January 2010. Archived from the original on 4 October 2023. Retrieved 4 October 2023.
  165. ^ "AC/DC to Headline UK Download Festival". The Independent. 27 January 2010. Archived from the original on 29 August 2023. Retrieved 29 August 2023.
  166. ^ Somaiya, Ravi (6 May 2011). "AC/DC Talk Epic Concert DVD Live at the River Plate". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 23 August 2020. Retrieved 5 October 2023.
  167. ^ Stickler, Jon (6 April 2011). "Sony Music Supports UK Record Store Day 2011". Stereoboard. Archived from the original on 20 September 2023. Retrieved 20 September 2023.
  168. ^ Blistein, Jon (16 November 2012). "AC/DC Rip It Up on Live at River Plate – Album Premiere". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 28 January 2020. Retrieved 8 April 2024.
  169. ^ Wilkening, Matthew (11 February 2011). "AC/DC: Let There Be Rock Concert Film to Receive Blu-Ray Release in June". Ultimate Classic Rock. Archived from the original on 1 February 2019. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  170. ^ Sisario, Ben (19 November 2012). "AC/DC Joins iTunes, as Spotify Emerges as Music's New Disrupter". The New York Times. Archived from the original on 21 November 2012. Retrieved 21 November 2012.
  171. ^ Wilkening, Matthew (8 January 2015). "Lung Cancer, Pacemaker: More Malcolm Young Health Woes Detailed". Ultimate Classic Rock. Archived from the original on 8 July 2023. Retrieved 25 May 2024.
  172. ^ Vincent, Peter; Boulton, Martin (16 April 2014). "AC/DC to Split Over Sick Band Member, According to Rumours". The Sydney Morning Herald. Archived from the original on 18 April 2014. Retrieved 16 April 2014.
  173. ^ "AC/DC Are Not Retiring, Though Malcolm Young is 'Taking a Break'". The Guardian. 16 April 2014. Archived from the original on 16 April 2014. Retrieved 22 September 2023.
  174. ^ Lopez, Korina (10 July 2014). "AC/DC Finishes Album; Malcolm Young Hospitalized". USA Today. Archived from the original on 15 July 2014. Retrieved 7 January 2015.
  175. ^ a b Vincent, Peter (24 September 2014). "AC/DC Confirm Malcolm Young's Retirement, Rock or Bust Album and World Tour". The Sydney Morning Herald. Archived from the original on 25 September 2014. Retrieved 3 September 2023.
  176. ^ Daly, Rhian (18 November 2017). "Watch Malcolm Young's Last Ever Gig with AC/DC". NME. Archived from the original on 19 October 2018. Retrieved 18 October 2018.
  177. ^ Kreps, Daniel (18 November 2017). "Malcolm Young, AC/DC Guitarist and Co-Founder, Dead at 64". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 18 November 2017. Retrieved 18 November 2017.
  178. ^ Adams, Cameron (22 August 2014). "AC/DC Drummer Phil Rudd Says the Band and Angus Young Will Never Retire". news.com.au. Archived from the original on 20 March 2016. Retrieved 3 September 2023.
  179. ^ Columbia Records 2014.
  180. ^ Hung, Steffen. "AC/DC – Rock or Bust". Australian Charts Portal (Hung Medien). Retrieved 25 May 2024.
  181. ^ "AC/DC Chart History (Canadian Albums)". Billboard. Retrieved 25 May 2024.
  182. ^ "Offizielle Deutsche Charts - Rock or Bust" (in German). GfK Entertainment. Retrieved 28 September 2023.
  183. ^ "AC/DC to Release New Album Rock or Bust as Guitarist Malcolm Young Retires from Band". news.com.au. 24 September 2014. Archived from the original on 2 December 2014. Retrieved 7 January 2015.
  184. ^ "AC/DC Drummer Phil Rudd on New Zealand Murder Plot Charge". BBC News. 6 November 2014. Archived from the original on 12 January 2015. Retrieved 7 January 2015.
  185. ^ "What Now for AC/DC, After Phil Rudd's Arrest and Malcolm Young's Retirement?". The Guardian. 6 November 2014. Archived from the original on 6 November 2014. Retrieved 6 November 2014.
  186. ^ "AC/DC Confirm Chris Slade Will Replace Phil Rudd on Their 2015 Tour". The Guardian. Archived from the original on 7 March 2016. Retrieved 14 March 2016.
  187. ^ Kreps, Daniel (21 April 2015). "AC/DC Drummer Phil Rudd Pleads Guilty to Drugs, Threatening to Kill Charges". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 24 April 2015. Retrieved 29 April 2015.
  188. ^ Schaffner, Lauryn (7 October 2020). "AC/DC: A Photo Timeline of Their Legendary Career". Loudwire. Archived from the original on 10 October 2020. Retrieved 8 April 2024.
  189. ^ Newman, Jason (9 July 2015). "AC/DC Drummer Phil Rudd Sentenced to Eight Months Home Detention". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 22 August 2020. Retrieved 26 January 2024.
  190. ^ Roffman, Michael (7 March 2016). "AC/DC Frontman Brian Johnson Ordered 'to Stop Touring Immediately or Risk Total Hearing Loss'". Consequence of Sound. Archived from the original on 15 March 2016. Retrieved 14 March 2016.
  191. ^ Kreps, Daniel (16 April 2016). "AC/DC Confirm Axl Rose Is New Lead Singer, Joining Band on Tour". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 17 April 2016. Retrieved 17 April 2016.
  192. ^ Foerste, Jonathan (July 2016). "Still Rockin' in Southwest Florida". Gulfshore Life. Archived from the original on 12 June 2017. Retrieved 8 September 2016.
  193. ^ Blistein, Jon (20 September 2016). "AC/DC Bassist Cliff Williams Confirms Retirement in Heartfelt Video". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 29 August 2017. Retrieved 23 August 2017.
  194. ^ Kreps, Daniel (21 September 2016). "Watch AC/DC Salute Cliff Williams at Bassist's Final Show". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 10 September 2018. Retrieved 18 October 2018.
  195. ^ Carmody, Broede (23 October 2017). "AC/DC Producer and Easybeats Musician George Young Dead at 70". The Sydney Morning Herald. Archived from the original on 23 October 2017. Retrieved 31 December 2023.
  196. ^ "Brian Johnson tilbake som vokalist i AC/DC" [Brian Johnson Back as Vocalist in AC/DC] (in Norwegian). 8 August 2018. Archived from the original on 8 August 2018. Retrieved 8 August 2018.
  197. ^ Kaufman, Spencer (11 February 2019). "Bassist Cliff Williams May Also Be Back in AC/DC: Report". Heavy Consequence. Archived from the original on 9 April 2021. Retrieved 8 February 2024.
  198. ^ Moore, Sam (30 September 2020). "AC/DC Confirm Comeback and Return of Brian Johnson, Phil Rudd and Cliff Williams". NME. Archived from the original on 8 October 2020. Retrieved 30 September 2020.
  199. ^ "AC/DC Drop Their Biggest Hint of a Comeback with New Social Media Video". NME. 28 September 2020. Archived from the original on 29 September 2020. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  200. ^ Bienstock, Richard (2 October 2020). "The First Snippet of AC/DC's Very AC/DC-Sounding New Single, 'Shot in the Dark', Is Here". Guitar World. Archived from the original on 3 April 2023. Retrieved 3 April 2023.
  201. ^ Legaspi, Althea (7 October 2020). "AC/DC Unleash 'Shot in the Dark', Announce Power Up LP Release Date". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 1 June 2023. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  202. ^ Lifton, Dave (7 October 2020). "AC/DC's Power Up: Track List, Release Date, Cover Art Revealed". Ultimate Classic Rock. Archived from the original on 7 October 2020. Retrieved 23 September 2023.
  203. ^ Greene, Andy (6 October 2020). "Exclusive: Angus Young, Brian Johnson, and Cliff Williams on the Resurrection of AC/DC". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 6 October 2020. Retrieved 11 February 2024.
  204. ^ Durieux, Arnaud. "AC/DC Discography: Power Up". ac-dc.net. Archived from the original on 18 November 2023. Retrieved 11 February 2024.
  205. ^ a b Kaufman, Gil (25 March 2024). "Pretty Reckless to Support AC/DC on 2024 PWR Up European Tour". Billboard. Archived from the original on 25 March 2024. Retrieved 1 April 2024.
  206. ^ Hadusek, Jon (2 October 2023). "AC/DC to Open Pop-Up Dive Bar in Celebration of Power Trip Gig". Heavy Consequence. Archived from the original on 3 October 2023. Retrieved 4 October 2023.
  207. ^ Lewry, Fraser (8 October 2023). "'How Cool Is This? Lovely to See You!': AC/DC Have Completed Their First Show in Seven Years at the Power Trip Festival". Classic Rock. Archived from the original on 8 October 2023. Retrieved 8 October 2023.
  208. ^ Kreps, Daniel (9 September 2023). "AC/DC Reveal Retired Bassist Cliff Williams Will Return for Power Trip Fest". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 10 September 2023. Retrieved 10 September 2023.
  209. ^ Lewry, Fraser (9 September 2023). "AC/DC Share Rehearsal Clip Ahead of Power Trip – and It's Not Phil Rudd in the Drum Seat". Classic Rock. Archived from the original on 10 September 2023. Retrieved 10 September 2023.
  210. ^ Potter, Jordan (12 September 2023). "Are AC/DC Plotting a World Tour for 'Next Year'?". Far Out. Archived from the original on 15 September 2023. Retrieved 15 September 2023.
  211. ^ Diallo, Nehne (10 November 2023). "AC/DC: Gerüchte über Tour 2024, München-Konzert soll feststehen" [AC/DC: Rumors About Tour 2024, Munich Concert Should Be Confirmed]. Musikexpress (in German). Archived from the original on 10 November 2023. Retrieved 14 November 2023.
  212. ^ Kreps, Daniel (16 December 2023). "Colin Burgess, AC/DC's Original Drummer, Dead at 77". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 16 December 2023. Retrieved 17 December 2023.
  213. ^ Dunworth, Liberty (6 February 2024). "AC/DC Tease Their Return to Touring: 'Are You Ready?'". NME. Archived from the original on 6 February 2024. Retrieved 6 February 2024.
  214. ^ Robets, Rachael (10 February 2024). "'Are You Ready?': AC/DC Are Teasing Something, and It Looks Like an Announcement Is Coming Very Soon". Guitar.com. Archived from the original on 25 February 2024. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  215. ^ Lewry, Fraser (12 February 2024). "AC/DC Announce 21-Date Power Up Tour – and a New Bass Player". Classic Rock. Archived from the original on 12 February 2024. Retrieved 12 February 2024.
  216. ^ Hadusek, Jon (20 February 2024). "AC/DC Reissuing Classic Albums on Gold Vinyl for 50th Anniversary". Heavy Consequence. Archived from the original on 20 February 2024. Retrieved 20 February 2024.
  217. ^ "AC/DC – Next Wave of 50th Anniversary Gold Vinyl Editions Available for Pre-Order". Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles. 8 May 2024. Archived from the original on 9 May 2024. Retrieved 9 May 2024.
  218. ^ Iahn, Buddy (12 August 2024). "AC/DC Announces Final Wave of Limited Edition 50th Anniversary Vinyl Reissues". The Music Universe. Archived from the original on 15 August 2024. Retrieved 15 August 2024.
  219. ^ Lewry, Fraser (15 May 2024). "AC/DC to Reissue Original Australian Versions of High Voltage and T.N.T., But There's a Catch". Classic Rock. Archived from the original on 15 May 2024. Retrieved 15 May 2024.
  220. ^ Cockington 2001, pp. 189–190.
  221. ^ Donovan, Patrick (10 June 2006). "Lobby Just Wants 'to Play a Couple More Times with Mates' – National". The Age. Archived from the original on 19 June 2006. Retrieved 25 September 2023.
  222. ^ Cockington 2001.
  223. ^ Baker 2010, p. 22.
  224. ^ Catterall, Tony (9 February 1976). "Rock Music – AC/DC: Australia's Best Punk-Rockers". The Canberra Times. Vol. 50, no. 14, 296. p. 13. Retrieved 25 September 2023 – via National Library of Australia.
  225. ^ a b c d Marchese, David (16 September 2016). "AC/DC Has Improbably Become the Most Poignant Story in Rock". Vulture. Archived from the original on 10 August 2018. Retrieved 10 August 2018.
  226. ^ Gill, Chris (2 January 2018). "The Secrets Behind Malcolm Young's Guitar Sound on AC/DC's 'Thunderstruck'". Guitar World. Archived from the original on 10 August 2018. Retrieved 9 August 2018.
  227. ^ a b c d Christgau 1990.
  228. ^ "ABC TV - A Long Way to the Top". Torres News. No. 460. Queensland, Australia. 24 August 2001. p. 28. Retrieved 25 September 2023 – via National Library of Australia.
  229. ^ a b c d "Long Way to the Top, Episode 4: 'Berserk Warriors'". Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). Archived from the original on 15 October 2002. Retrieved 25 September 2023.
  230. ^ Baker, Glenn A. (1984). Heatley, Michael (ed.). "High Voltage: The Positive Charge of AC/DC". The History of Rock. 10. London: Orbis Publishing: 2227.
  231. ^ a b c McParland 2018, pp. 57–58.
  232. ^ Morse, Steve (6 January 1982). "AC-DC, the Biggest Seller". The Canberra Times. Vol. 56, no. 16, 902. p. 11. Retrieved 6 February 2024 – via National Library of Australia.
  233. ^ Jenkins & Meldrum 2007.
  234. ^ Erlewine, Stephen Thomas (n.d.). "AC/DC". AllMusic. Archived from the original on 19 June 2018. Retrieved 7 August 2018.
  235. ^ Petridis, Alexis (26 October 2008). "Things Really Must Be Bad – AC/DC Are No 1 Again". The Guardian. Archived from the original on 16 November 2018. Retrieved 7 August 2018.
  236. ^ Jonze, Tim (14 April 2009). "A Handy Guide to Heavy Metal". The Guardian. Archived from the original on 8 August 2018. Retrieved 7 August 2018.
  237. ^ Harrington 2003.
  238. ^ Alexander, Phil (22 July 2020). "How AC/DC's Back in Black Changed Rock Music Forever". Kerrang!. Archived from the original on 10 July 2023. Retrieved 10 July 2023.
  239. ^ a b Elliott, Paul (22 July 2020). "The Inside Story of AC/DC's Back in Black, the Biggest-Selling Rock Album of all Time". Guitar World. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 10 July 2023.
  240. ^ Elliott, Paul (February 2007). "Never Mind the Bollocks". Mojo.
  241. ^ Mustaine, Dave (14 January 2014). "The Record that Changed My Life: Dave Mustaine Discusses AC/DC's Let There Be Rock". Guitar World. Archived from the original on 10 July 2023. Retrieved 10 July 2023.
  242. ^ Trendell, Andrew (21 November 2017). "Josh Homme on How AC/DC's Malcolm Young Inspired the Start of Queens of the Stone Age". NME. Archived from the original on 10 July 2023. Retrieved 9 July 2023.
  243. ^ Young, Alex (18 November 2017). "Dave Grohl Pays Tribute to AC/DC's Malcolm Young, Who Inspired Him to Start a Band". Consequence of Sound. Archived from the original on 10 July 2023. Retrieved 9 July 2023.
  244. ^ "Anthrax's Scott Ian: AC/DC's Back in Black 'Fucking Blew My Mind'". Revolver. 23 July 2020. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 9 July 2023.
  245. ^ "Interview: Testament's Eric Peterson". Spotlight Report. 14 October 2013. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 10 July 2023.
  246. ^ "Celebrating the Offspring's Enduring Impact". The Orange County Register. 8 March 2014. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 10 July 2023.
  247. ^ Mullins, Dave (7 March 2023). "Brian Baker - Fake Names Interview". Wall of Sound. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 10 July 2023.
  248. ^ "Brothers Airborne". The Standard. Warrnambool, VIC: South West Institute of TAFE. 13 March 2003. Archived from the original on 30 July 2003. Retrieved 16 July 2024 – via National Library of Australia. n.b. Band name is known as "Airborne".
  249. ^ Kennelty, Greg (10 November 2020). "AC/DC's Back in Black Inspired Metallica's Black Album Not Just in Color". Loudwire. Archived from the original on 27 August 2021. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  250. ^ Full Metal Jackie (26 May 2015). "Kerry King Talk New Slayer Album, Fans + More". Loudwire. Archived from the original on 5 April 2023. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  251. ^ Stefanis, Josh (2004). "Get Ready to Rock! Interview with Tom Hunting and Gary Holt of Thrash Metal Rock Band". Get Ready to Rock. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 9 July 2023.
  252. ^ Rivadavia, Eduardo (6 April 2017). "How the Cult Reinvented Themselves on Electric". Ultimate Classic Rock. Archived from the original on 12 January 2024. Retrieved 27 December 2023.
  253. ^ "Australian Guitar x Bluesfest 2022: The Living End". Guitar World. 14 September 2021. Archived from the original on 10 August 2022. Retrieved 27 December 2023.
  254. ^ Laffan, Carolyn (19 December 2017). "A History of Australian Music in 6 Objects". Double J (Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)). Archived from the original on 9 November 2023. Retrieved 14 April 2024.
  255. ^ Monroe, Scott (9 November 2018). "Gene Simmons: There's Nobody Like AC/DC". Louder Sound. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 9 July 2023.
  256. ^ Aubrey, Elizabeth (20 April 2019). "'Where Do I Start?' Guns N' Roses' Slash Responds to Reports of a New AC/DC Album". NME. Archived from the original on 4 September 2023. Retrieved 10 July 2023.
  257. ^ Marc Maron (4 July 2013). "Episode 403 - Nick Cave". WTF with Marc Maron (Podcast). Event occurs at 15:10. Retrieved 9 July 2023.
  258. ^ Snyder, Russell (31 August 1985). "Police Saturday Arrested the Aalleged Night Stalker, Accused of..." United Press International (UPI). Archived from the original on 29 October 2018. Retrieved 29 October 2018.
  259. ^ Baker, Bob (2 September 1985). "Other Serial Slayings Tinged by Satanism: Elements of Devil Worship in Stalker Case May Not Be Factors in Motivation, Experts Caution". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on 24 November 2018. Retrieved 29 October 2018.
  260. ^ "Suspected Killer 'Obsessed by Devil'". The Canberra Times. Vol. 60, no. 18, 235. Reuters. 3 September 1985. p. 5. Retrieved 29 December 2023 – via National Library of Australia.
  261. ^ Hilburn, Robert (8 September 1985). "The Devil, You Say? No Way: AC/DC's Message: Rebellion, Not Satan Worship". Los Angeles Times. Archived from the original on 3 October 2018. Retrieved 29 October 2018.
  262. ^ Donoughue, Paul (22 November 2017). "What Learning 70 AC/DC Riffs Taught Lindsay McDougall About Malcolm Young". Double J (Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)). Archived from the original on 25 March 2018. Retrieved 27 January 2024.
  263. ^ Mitchell, Matt (2 March 2024). "Time Capsule: AC/DC: Highway to Hell". Paste. Archived from the original on 23 March 2024. Retrieved 3 June 2024.
  264. ^ McCabe, Kathy (12 November 2014). "New AC/DC Music Video for 'Play Ball' Is Big on Sports and Sexist Shots. And Minus Phil Rudd". news.com.au. Archived from the original on 27 January 2024. Retrieved 27 January 2024.
  265. ^ a b c Sturges, Fiona (2 October 2017). "Songs that Hate Women and the Women Who Love Them: Why I'm Still a Fan of AC/DC". The Guardian. Archived from the original on 10 August 2018. Retrieved 10 August 2018.
  266. ^ "9th American Music Awards". Rock on the Net. Archived from the original on 23 September 2008. Retrieved 7 October 2023.
  267. ^ "AC/DC Gets Street Name". The Globe and Mail. 24 March 2000. Archived from the original on 28 August 2023. Retrieved 29 August 2023.
  268. ^ S. Valera, Ana (5 April 2000). "Las placas de la 'calle AC/DC' se pondrán a la venta a partir del próximo lunes" [The 'AC/DC Street' Plates Will Go on Sale from Next Monday]. El Mundo (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 14 November 2007. Retrieved 29 August 2023.
  269. ^ "Next Stage in AC/DC Lane Proposal Wins in-Principle Support". City of Melbourne. 8 July 2004. Archived from the original on 16 October 2008. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  270. ^ Boulton, Martin (10 September 2004). "Laneway to the Top for AC/DC". The Age. Archived from the original on 22 May 2008. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  271. ^ "Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Opens Doors to Clash, Police, Costello, AC/DC". CNN. 11 March 2003. Archived from the original on 3 October 2003. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  272. ^ Johnson Jr., Billy (11 March 2003). "AC/DC, the Clash, the Police and Others Inducted into Hall of Fame". Yahoo! Music. Archived from the original on 4 July 2007. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  273. ^ "2003 Music Winners Awards Announced". Australasian Performing Right Association (APRA). Archived from the original on 23 July 2008. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  274. ^ "Back in Black Ranked No. 73". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 2 September 2011. Retrieved 4 May 2022.
  275. ^ "Highway Ranked No. 199". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 2 September 2011. Retrieved 4 May 2022.
  276. ^ "AC/DC – 100 Greatest Artists". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 8 October 2017. Retrieved 6 October 2017.
  277. ^ "Rolling Stone: 500 Greatest Songs of All Time 2004 101-200". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 20 June 2008. Retrieved 4 May 2022.
  278. ^ "Rolling Stone: 500 Greatest Songs of All Time 2004 201-300". Rolling Stone. Archived from the original on 19 June 2008. Retrieved 4 May 2022.
  279. ^ "100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock". VH1. Archived from the original on 13 September 2008. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  280. ^ "The Greatest Metal Bands of All Time". MTV. Archived from the original on 26 July 2008. Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  281. ^ "The Greatest Artists of All Time". VH1. 3 September 2010. Archived from the original on 17 September 2011. Retrieved 19 September 2011 – via Stereogum.
  282. ^ Childers, Chad (20 November 2015). "AC/DC Inducted into The Age Music Victoria Awards Hall of Fame". Loudwire. Archived from the original on 29 August 2023. Retrieved 29 August 2023.
  283. ^ Levine, Robert (10 October 2008). "Ageless and Defiant, AC/DC Stays on Top Without Going Digital". The New York Times. Archived from the original on 2 November 2011. Retrieved 19 November 2008.
  284. ^ "AC/DC: Rock's 'Kick in the Guts'". BBC News. 6 November 2014. Archived from the original on 21 August 2023. Retrieved 10 September 2024.
  285. ^ "Top Selling Artists". Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Retrieved 2 August 2008.
  286. ^ "Gold & Platinum". Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Archived from the original on 13 September 2021. Retrieved 1 December 2021.
  287. ^ Wall 2012.
  288. ^ Masino 2009, p. 150.
  289. ^ a b c d e Weber, Bo (11 November 2022). "Success, Death and Rock & Roll: Facts About the Legendary Australian Band, AC/DC". Music in Minnesota. Archived from the original on 17 January 2024. Retrieved 27 January 2024.

Sources

Further reading

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=AC/DC&oldid=1258147723"