AC/DC, the iconic Australian rock band, has been electrifying audiences for over five decades with their high-energy performances, powerful riffs, and anthemic songs. While their music is instantly recognizable, the band has seen several lineup changes throughout its history. This article delves into the various members of AC/DC, focusing on the key figures who have shaped the band’s sound and legacy.

The Founding Brothers: Angus and Malcolm Young

The heart and soul of AC/DC have always been the Young brothers: Angus and Malcolm. Born in Scotland and later emigrating to Australia, they formed the band in Sydney in 1973.   

Angus Young: Instantly recognizable for his schoolboy uniform stage persona and energetic duckwalk, Angus is the lead guitarist and the face of AC/DC. His blistering guitar solos and blues-infused riffs are a defining characteristic of the band’s sound.   

Malcolm Young: The rhythm guitarist and often considered the band’s driving force, Malcolm’s powerful and precise rhythm playing provided the solid foundation for Angus’s lead work. His contributions to the band’s songwriting and overall sound were essential to AC/DC’s success. Malcolm retired from the band in 2014 due to health issues and sadly passed away in 2017.   

The Vocalists: Bon Scott and Brian Johnson

AC/DC has had two iconic lead vocalists, each leaving an indelible mark on the band’s history:   

Bon Scott: Joining the band in 1974, Bon Scott’s raw, gritty vocals and charismatic stage presence helped define AC/DC’s early sound and image. He co-wrote many of the band’s classic songs and became a rock and roll icon. Tragically, he passed away in 1980.   

Brian Johnson: Following Scott’s untimely death, Brian Johnson joined AC/DC in 1980. His powerful, high-pitched vocals proved to be a perfect fit for the band’s music, and he led them to even greater heights of success with the album Back in Black, one of the best-selling albums of all time. Johnson temporarily left the band in 2016 due to hearing issues but returned in 2020.   

The Rhythm Section: Bassists and Drummers

The driving rhythm section has been crucial to AC/DC’s powerful sound. Several talented musicians have filled these roles over the years:

Bassists:

Mark Evans: Played bass from 1975 to 1977, appearing on albums like T.N.T. and Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap.   

Cliff Williams: Joined in 1977 and became a long-standing member, providing a solid and reliable bassline for decades. He retired in 2016 but returned in 2020.

Drummers:

Phil Rudd: Joined in 1975, left in 1983, rejoined in 1994, left again in 2015, and returned once more in 2020. His powerful and straightforward drumming style is a key part of AC/DC’s sound.

Chris Slade: Filled in during Rudd’s absences, notably during the Razors Edge era and during the Rock or Bust Tour.

The Current Lineup and Recent Years

The current lineup of AC/DC, as of their 2020 return and the release of the album Power Up, consists of:

Angus Young (lead guitar)   

Brian Johnson (lead vocals)   

Cliff Williams (bass)   

Phil Rudd (drums)   

Stevie Young (rhythm guitar)   

Stevie Young, Malcolm’s nephew, took over rhythm guitar duties after Malcolm’s retirement in 2014 and has continued in that role.   

The Impact of Lineup Changes

Despite the lineup changes, AC/DC has maintained a remarkably consistent sound throughout its history. This is largely due to the unwavering vision of the Young brothers, who have always been the primary songwriters and driving force behind the band. While each member has brought their own unique talents to the table, the core elements of AC/DC’s music – Angus’s blues-based guitar riffs, Malcolm’s powerful rhythm playing, and the distinctive vocals of both Bon Scott and Brian Johnson – have remained constant.

The Legacy of AC/DC’s Members

The members of AC/DC, past and present, have collectively created a legacy that has cemented the band’s place in rock and roll history. From the raw energy of Bon Scott’s era to the stadium-filling anthems of Brian Johnson’s time, AC/DC has consistently delivered high-octane rock and roll that has resonated with generations of fans. The Young brothers’ dedication to their musical vision, combined with the talents of the various musicians who have joined them along the way, has made AC/DC one of the most enduring and significant rock bands ever.

FAQs

Who founded AC/DC?

AC/DC was founded in Sydney, Australia, in 1973 by brothers Angus and Malcolm Young. Angus, known for his signature schoolboy uniform stage outfit, played lead guitar, while Malcolm played rhythm guitar and was the band’s primary songwriter and driving force in its early years.

Who is the lead singer of AC/DC?

AC/DC has had two prominent lead singers. Bon Scott fronted the band from 1974 until his tragic death in 1980. Following Scott’s death, Brian Johnson joined the band and has been their lead vocalist for most of their subsequent career, with a brief period where Axl Rose filled in during a tour.

Who played drums for AC/DC?

The band has had several drummers throughout its history. Phil Rudd had two separate stints with the band (1975-1983 and 1994-2015). Simon Wright replaced Rudd in the 80s, and Chris Slade filled in during the early 90s and again more recently.

What was the role of Malcolm Young in AC/DC?

Malcolm Young was the rhythm guitarist and a founding member of AC/DC. He was considered the band’s backbone, providing the powerful, driving riffs that defined their sound. He was also the primary songwriter alongside his brother Angus for much of their career. His influence on the band’s sound and direction was immense.

Who is the current lineup of AC/DC?

As of their most recent activity, the lineup consists of Angus Young (lead guitar), Brian Johnson (lead vocals), Stevie Young (rhythm guitar, replacing his late uncle Malcolm), Cliff Williams (bass guitar), and Phil Rudd (drums).

Has the band had many lineup changes?

Yes, AC/DC has experienced several lineup changes over its long history, particularly in the rhythm section (bass and drums). The core of the band, however, has always revolved around Angus Young and, for many years, his brother Malcolm. The loss of Bon Scott and later the retirement and passing of Malcolm Young were particularly significant events for the band.

In Summary

The story of AC/DC is not just a story of music; it’s a story of brotherhood, resilience, and unwavering dedication to rock and roll. The various members of the band, from the founding Young brothers to the iconic vocalists and the powerful rhythm section, have all played a crucial role in shaping the band’s sound and legacy. Despite facing challenges and changes over the years, AC/DC has continued to deliver high-voltage performances and create music that continues to energize and inspire fans around the world.

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