AC/DC has solidified its status as a legendary powerhouse in the hard rock genre over the years. Originally formed in Australia, the band began with Bon Scott as the lead singer, but its roots trace back to the British rock scene through brothers Malcolm and Angus Young, who hails from Glasgow, Scotland.
The tragic passing of Bon Scott in 1980 led to the arrival of English vocalist Brian Johnson, who stepped into the frontman role. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, AC/DC introduced their hard-hitting rock sound to audiences in Australia, drawing inspiration from iconic bands like Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath.
Their music soon gained international acclaim, producing massive hits like “Back in Black” and “Highway to Hell.” Today, Brian Johnson and Angus Young continue to lead the band, delivering electrifying performances that keep fans enthralled.
The current lineup is bolstered by Phil Rudd on drums and Cliff Williams on bass. In 2014, Stevie Young, Malcolm Young’s nephew, joined the band as the rhythm guitarist, furthering the family legacy. Each member of AC/DC has their personal favorite tracks that they love to perform during their dynamic live shows.
For Brian Johnson, early ’80s material holds special significance, particularly the hit “You Shook Me All Night Long.” He recalls feeling nervous while recording it, but the positive feedback from the band, especially from Malcolm Young, made the experience truly rewarding.
Angus Young also has his favorite tracks. He enjoys playing “Riff Raff” for its challenging guitar work and has a soft spot for “Thunderstruck,” which he appreciates for its strong lyrics, powerful delivery, and exceptional production quality. However, he isn’t a fan of “Love Song (Oh Jene),” believing it veered too far from AC/DC’s signature sound in pursuit of a more radio-friendly appeal.
Fortunately, the B-side “Baby, Please Don’t Go” helped the band reconnect with its blues roots, maintaining the essence of what makes AC/DC so distinctive.