AC/DC is an iconic Australian rock band that emerged in the 1970s and became one of the most influential and successful rock acts of all time. Formed in Sydney in 1973 by brothers Angus and Malcolm Young, AC/DC’s high-energy performances and hard-hitting sound have earned them a dedicated global fanbase and a lasting legacy in the history of rock music.
Known for their electrifying live shows and relentless, blues-infused rock anthems, AC/DC has sold over 200 million albums worldwide, making them one of the best-selling bands in music history. Their signature style, characterized by Angus Young’s blistering guitar riffs, Malcolm Young’s driving rhythm guitar, and the powerhouse vocals of frontmen Bon Scott and later Brian Johnson, has become synonymous with the genre of hard rock.
AC/DC’s breakthrough came with their album “High Voltage” in 1975, followed by the international success of “Highway to Hell” in 1979. However, it was their landmark album “Back in Black” (1980), released in the wake of Bon Scott’s untimely death, that solidified their status as rock legends. Featuring hits like “You Shook Me All Night Long” and the title track “Back in Black,” the album became one of the best-selling albums of all time.
Throughout their career, AC/DC has continued to release chart-topping albums and electrifying performances, earning them induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003. Despite lineup changes and personal setbacks, the band’s enduring popularity and influence remain undiminished, as they continue to inspire generations of rock fans with their raw energy, infectious music, and uncompromising attitude.
1. Back in Black
“Back in Black” is a legendary rock anthem and the title track of AC/DC’s iconic 1980 album. It stands as one of the band’s most celebrated and enduring songs, recognized for its electrifying guitar riffs, powerhouse vocals, and infectious energy.
Written as a tribute to the band’s late lead singer, Bon Scott, who passed away in 1980, “Back in Black” captures the spirit of resilience and determination. Brian Johnson, who joined AC/DC as Scott’s replacement, delivers a dynamic and unforgettable vocal performance, backed by Angus Young’s blistering guitar work and Malcolm Young’s driving rhythm.
The song’s iconic opening riff, played by Angus Young on his Gibson SG guitar, is instantly recognizable and serves as a rallying cry for rock fans worldwide. From the thunderous drums to the anthemic chorus, “Back in Black” exudes an aura of power and defiance that resonates with listeners of all generations.
Lyrically, the song celebrates the band’s return to the music scene with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. It’s a declaration of their unwavering commitment to their craft and their enduring legacy in the world of rock music.
Decades since its release, “Back in Black” remains a staple of rock radio and a highlight of AC/DC’s live performances. Its timeless appeal, coupled with its electrifying energy and memorable riffs, ensure its place as one of the greatest rock songs of all time, immortalizing AC/DC’s legacy in the annals of music history.
2. Highway to Hell
“Highway to Hell” is a classic rock song by the Australian band AC/DC, released in 1979 as the lead single and title track from their album of the same name. The song was written by Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Bon Scott.
“Highway to Hell” is known for its iconic guitar riff, driving rhythm, and Bon Scott’s powerful vocals. The lyrics depict the experience of life on the road as a rock band, with references to touring, partying, and the fast-paced lifestyle of a musician. The phrase “highway to hell” is used metaphorically to represent the hedonistic and rebellious nature of the rock and roll lifestyle.
Despite its controversial title, “Highway to Hell” became one of AC/DC’s most popular and enduring songs. It reached the top 10 on the charts in several countries and has since become a staple of classic rock radio and live performances. The song’s energy and attitude have cemented its status as a rock anthem.
3. Thunderstruck
“Thunderstruck” is a thunderous rock anthem by AC/DC, released in 1990 as the lead single from their album “The Razors Edge.” The song is celebrated for its electrifying energy, relentless rhythm, and iconic guitar riff, making it one of AC/DC’s most beloved and enduring hits.
From its opening moments, “Thunderstruck” grabs listeners’ attention with its electrifying guitar riff, played by Angus Young, which is instantly recognizable and serves as the backbone of the song. The driving drums, pulsating bassline, and Brian Johnson’s powerful vocals further contribute to the song’s electrifying energy, creating a sonic experience that is both exhilarating and unforgettable.
Lyrically, “Thunderstruck” is an anthem of empowerment and invincibility, as Johnson sings of the unstoppable force of thunder and lightning. The song’s infectious chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Thunderstruck,” serves as a rallying cry for listeners, inspiring a sense of strength and determination.
“Thunderstruck” became an instant classic and a staple of AC/DC’s live performances, with its electrifying energy igniting crowds around the world. The song’s popularity has endured over the years, cementing its status as one of AC/DC’s most iconic and beloved tracks.
Decades since its release, “Thunderstruck” continues to captivate audiences with its raw power and infectious energy, earning its place as a timeless rock anthem and a highlight of AC/DC’s legendary catalog.
4. You Shook Me All Night Long
“You Shook Me All Night Long” is an electrifying rock anthem by AC/DC, released in 1980 as part of their landmark album “Back in Black.” This timeless track is celebrated for its infectious energy, iconic guitar riffs, and catchy hooks, making it one of AC/DC’s most enduring and beloved songs.
From its memorable guitar intro to its anthemic chorus, “You Shook Me All Night Long” grabs listeners’ attention and never lets go. Angus Young’s blistering guitar work, coupled with Brian Johnson’s powerhouse vocals, creates a sonic experience that is both exhilarating and unforgettable.
Lyrically, the song is a celebration of lust and desire, as Johnson sings of a wild night of passion and romance. The catchy chorus, with its repeated refrain of “You shook me all night long,” serves as a euphoric anthem for listeners, capturing the excitement and intensity of a memorable night out.
“You Shook Me All Night Long” became an instant hit and a staple of AC/DC’s live performances, with its infectious energy and sing-along chorus igniting crowds around the world. The song’s popularity has endured over the years, earning its place as one of AC/DC’s most iconic and beloved tracks.
Decades since its release, “You Shook Me All Night Long” continues to captivate audiences with its timeless appeal and undeniable rock ‘n’ roll swagger, solidifying its status as a classic rock anthem and a highlight of AC/DC’s legendary catalog.
5. Hells Bells
“Hell’s Bells” is a song by the Australian rock band AC/DC, released in 1980 as the first track on their album “Back in Black.” The song was written by Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Brian Johnson.
“Hell’s Bells” is known for its distinctive opening riff played by guitarist Angus Young, which features a tolling bell effect created by a large cast-iron bell. The lyrics of the song reference themes of mortality, darkness, and impending doom, with the tolling bells serving as a metaphorical warning of death’s approach.
The song’s dark and ominous atmosphere, combined with its powerful instrumentation and Brian Johnson’s gritty vocals, has made it one of AC/DC’s most iconic tracks. “Hell’s Bells” is often regarded as a classic of the heavy metal genre and remains a staple of the band’s live performances.
6. T.N.T.
“T.N.T.” is a classic rock anthem by AC/DC, originally released in 1975 as the title track of their second studio album. This high-energy track is celebrated for its raw power, infectious rhythm, and iconic guitar riffs, making it a fan favorite and a staple of AC/DC’s live performances.
From its explosive opening chords to its relentless rhythm, “T.N.T.” grabs listeners’ attention and never lets go. Angus Young’s blistering guitar work, coupled with Bon Scott’s gritty vocals, creates a sonic experience that is both electrifying and unforgettable.
Lyrically, the song is a declaration of rebellion and defiance, as Scott sings of living life on the edge and embracing the thrill of danger. The catchy chorus, with its repeated refrain of “T.N.T., I’m dynamite,” serves as a rallying cry for listeners, inspiring a sense of empowerment and liberation.
“T.N.T.” became an instant hit and a signature song for AC/DC, with its infectious energy and anthemic chorus resonating with fans around the world. The song’s popularity has endured over the years, earning its place as one of AC/DC’s most iconic and beloved tracks.
Decades since its release, “T.N.T.” continues to captivate audiences with its timeless appeal and undeniable rock ‘n’ roll swagger, solidifying its status as a classic rock anthem and a highlight of AC/DC’s legendary catalog.
7. Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap
“Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” is a song by the Australian rock band AC/DC, released in 1976 as the title track of their third studio album. The song was written by Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Bon Scott.
“Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” is known for its catchy guitar riff and tongue-in-cheek lyrics, which depict a protagonist offering his services as a “problem solver” who can carry out various illegal or morally questionable tasks for a fee. Despite the dark subject matter, the song’s upbeat tempo and energetic performance give it a sense of irreverence and humor.
While “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” wasn’t initially released as a single in the band’s native Australia, it gained popularity through radio airplay and became one of AC/DC’s signature songs. It was later released as a single in other countries and has since become a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances.
8. For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)
“For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)” is a song by the Australian rock band AC/DC, released in 1981 as the title track of their album of the same name. The song was written by Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Brian Johnson.
“For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)” is known for its anthemic chorus and powerful riff, driven by Angus Young’s iconic guitar work. The lyrics pay tribute to the energy and spirit of rock and roll, with the title referencing the salute given by gladiators in ancient Rome before entering battle.
The song’s grandiose and bombastic sound, along with its memorable call to arms, has made it one of AC/DC’s most beloved tracks. It has become a concert staple and is often played as the closing number of their live shows, accompanied by cannons firing on stage in tribute to its epic theme.
9. Whole Lotta Rosie
“Whole Lotta Rosie” is a classic rock song by AC/DC, featured on their 1977 album “Let There Be Rock.” This high-octane track is renowned for its energetic performance, infectious rhythm, and memorable guitar riffs, making it a fan favorite and a staple of AC/DC’s live shows.
The song kicks off with a catchy guitar riff, setting the tone for the electrifying performance that follows. Angus Young’s blistering guitar work, combined with Bon Scott’s powerful vocals, creates a sonic experience that is both exhilarating and unforgettable.
Lyrically, “Whole Lotta Rosie” tells the story of a larger-than-life woman named Rosie, who captivates the narrator with her charm and magnetism. The song’s catchy chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Whole lotta Rosie,” serves as a celebratory anthem for listeners, capturing the excitement and energy of a wild night out.
“Whole Lotta Rosie” has become one of AC/DC’s most beloved and enduring tracks, earning its place as a classic rock anthem and a highlight of the band’s legendary catalog. Its infectious energy and memorable riff continue to captivate audiences around the world, solidifying its status as a timeless rock ‘n’ roll classic.
10. It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)
“It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)” is a song by AC/DC, released in 1975 on their album “T.N.T.” The song was written by Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Bon Scott.
“It’s a Long Way to the Top” is one of AC/DC’s most iconic songs, known for its energetic rhythm, catchy melody, and memorable bagpipe solo performed by Bon Scott. The lyrics describe the challenges and sacrifices faced by aspiring musicians as they pursue their dreams of rock and roll stardom. Despite the hardships depicted, the song carries a sense of resilience and determination, urging listeners to persevere in the face of adversity.
The song’s infectious energy and anthemic chorus have made it a fan favorite and a staple of AC/DC’s live performances. “It’s a Long Way to the Top” remains one of the band’s most enduring and recognizable songs, cementing its place in rock music history.