AC/DC is an Australian rock band formed in Sydney in 1973 by brothers Malcolm and Angus Young. The band is known for its hard rock sound, characterized by powerful riffs, catchy melodies, and energetic performances. AC/DC has achieved worldwide success and is considered one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
The band’s lineup has seen some changes over the years, but its classic lineup includes lead vocalist Bon Scott (1974–1980), guitarists Angus and Malcolm Young, bassist Cliff Williams (1977–2016), and drummer Phil Rudd (1975–1983, 1994–2015). Following Bon Scott’s death in 1980, Brian Johnson became the band’s lead vocalist, and he remained in that role until 2016.
AC/DC’s music is characterized by its high-energy performances, with songs often featuring driving rhythms, powerful guitar solos, and anthemic choruses. The band’s lyrics often revolve around themes of rock and roll lifestyle, rebellion, and good times.
Some of AC/DC’s most iconic songs include “Highway to Hell,” “Back in Black,” “Thunderstruck,” “You Shook Me All Night Long,” and “T.N.T.” Their albums, such as “Back in Black” and “Highway to Hell,” are among the best-selling albums of all time, cementing AC/DC’s status as rock legends.
Despite various challenges over the years, including the deaths of Bon Scott and Malcolm Young, AC/DC has continued to record and tour, maintaining their status as one of the most enduring and influential bands in rock music history.
1. Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap
“Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” is a song by AC/DC, released in 1976 as the title track from their third studio album. The song was written by band members Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Bon Scott.
“Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” is a hard rock anthem known for its catchy guitar riff, driving rhythm, and tongue-in-cheek lyrics. The song’s protagonist offers to perform various unsavory tasks for a fee, including acts of violence, revenge, and deception. Despite the dark subject matter, the song’s upbeat tempo and humorous tone have made it a fan favorite and a staple of AC/DC’s live performances.
While “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” was not initially released as a single in the United States, it has since become one of AC/DC’s most popular songs and has achieved cult status among fans. Its infectious energy and memorable chorus have contributed to its enduring appeal, making it a classic in the realm of hard rock music.
2. For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)
“For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)” is a song by AC/DC, released in 1981 as the title track from their eighth studio album. The song was written by band members Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Brian Johnson.
“For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)” is a powerful hard rock anthem known for its iconic guitar riff, thunderous drums, and anthemic chorus. The song’s lyrics pay tribute to the power of rock and roll music and the energy of live performances. The title is a reference to the ancient Roman phrase “Ave, Caesar, morituri te salutant” (“Hail, Caesar, those who are about to die salute you”), with AC/DC’s version celebrating the shared experience between performers and fans at a concert.
The song’s dynamic and bombastic sound, combined with its memorable chant-like chorus, has made it a fan favorite and a staple of AC/DC’s live shows. “For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)” has become one of the band’s signature songs and is often regarded as one of the greatest rock anthems of all time.
The track’s enduring popularity and impact have solidified its place in the pantheon of hard rock classics, and it continues to be celebrated by rock fans around the world.
3. Rock and Roll Ain’t Noise Pollution
“Rock and Roll Ain’t Noise Pollution” is a song by AC/DC, released in 1980 as the closing track on their album “Back in Black.” The song was written by band members Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Brian Johnson.
“Rock and Roll Ain’t Noise Pollution” is a defiant anthem defending the genre of rock and roll against criticism and censorship. The song’s lyrics assert that rock and roll music is a powerful force for self-expression and freedom, and that its loud and energetic sound is not a nuisance, but rather a vital part of the cultural landscape.
Musically, the song features a bluesy riff and a catchy chorus, with Brian Johnson’s raspy vocals delivering the defiant message with conviction. The track’s driving rhythm and infectious energy capture the essence of classic rock and roll, making it a fan favorite and a staple of AC/DC’s live performances.
“Rock and Roll Ain’t Noise Pollution” has become one of AC/DC’s most enduring and iconic songs, celebrated for its rebellious spirit and its celebration of the power of rock music. It remains a rallying cry for fans of the genre, and its message continues to resonate with listeners around the world.
4. Back in Black
“Back in Black” is a song by the Australian rock band AC/DC, released in 1980 as the title track of their album “Back in Black.” It was written by band members Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Brian Johnson, with Angus Young creating the iconic guitar riff.
“Back in Black” is one of AC/DC’s most famous and enduring songs, known for its instantly recognizable guitar riff, powerful vocals, and hard-hitting rhythm. The song’s lyrics are a tribute to the band’s former lead singer, Bon Scott, who passed away earlier that year. Despite the somber subject matter, the song has an upbeat and defiant tone, with lyrics expressing determination and resilience.
Musically, “Back in Black” is characterized by its driving beat, crunchy guitar sound, and anthemic chorus. Brian Johnson’s raspy vocals add to the song’s gritty and aggressive vibe, making it a favorite among fans of hard rock and heavy metal.
“Back in Black” has become one of AC/DC’s signature songs and a classic of the rock genre. It remains a staple of their live performances and is often regarded as one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
5. Highway to Hell
“Highway to Hell” is a song by the Australian rock band AC/DC, released in 1979 as the lead single and title track of their album “Highway to Hell.” It was written by band members Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Bon Scott.
“Highway to Hell” is one of AC/DC’s most famous and iconic songs, known for its hard-hitting rhythm, catchy guitar riff, and rebellious lyrics. The song’s lyrics describe life on the road as a rock and roll band, with references to the challenges and temptations they face while touring. Despite the dark imagery of the title, the song has an upbeat and energetic vibe, with lyrics expressing a sense of freedom and adventure.
Musically, “Highway to Hell” features a driving beat, crunchy guitar sound, and powerful vocals by Bon Scott. The song’s anthemic chorus and infectious groove make it a favorite among fans of hard rock and heavy metal.
“Highway to Hell” has become one of AC/DC’s signature songs and a classic of the rock genre. It remains a staple of their live performances and is often regarded as one of the greatest rock anthems of all time.
6. You Shook Me All Night Long
“You Shook Me All Night Long” is a song by AC/DC, released in 1980 as the lead single from their album “Back in Black.” The song was written by band members Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Brian Johnson.
“You Shook Me All Night Long” is a classic rock anthem known for its catchy guitar riff, driving rhythm, and memorable chorus. The song’s lyrics describe a night of passion and desire, with the narrator expressing his admiration for a woman who has captivated him with her charm and energy.
Musically, “You Shook Me All Night Long” features a dynamic and energetic arrangement, with Angus Young’s blistering guitar solos and Brian Johnson’s powerful vocals driving the song forward. The track’s infectious melody and anthemic chorus have made it one of AC/DC’s most popular and enduring songs.
“You Shook Me All Night Long” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten in several countries and becoming one of AC/DC’s signature tracks. Its timeless appeal and universal themes of love and desire have cemented its status as a classic rock anthem, and it remains a staple of rock radio playlists and live performances to this day.
7. Thunderstruck
“Thunderstruck” is a song by AC/DC, released in 1990 as the lead single from their album “The Razors Edge.” The song was written by band members Angus Young and Malcolm Young.
“Thunderstruck” is a high-energy hard rock anthem known for its electrifying guitar riff and driving rhythm. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of power and intensity, with references to lightning and thunder adding to its dynamic and explosive energy.
Musically, “Thunderstruck” features Angus Young’s iconic guitar playing, with his lightning-fast solo driving the song’s momentum. The track’s infectious groove and memorable chorus make it a fan favorite and a staple of AC/DC’s live performances.
“Thunderstruck” was a commercial success, reaching the top five in several countries and becoming one of AC/DC’s most popular and enduring songs. Its adrenaline-fueled energy and anthemic quality have made it a classic in the realm of hard rock music, and it remains a favorite among rock fans around the world.
8. 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.” It was written by band members Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Brian Johnson.
“Hell’s Bells” is known for its haunting and atmospheric intro, featuring the sound of a large bell tolling. The song’s lyrics are a tribute to the band’s former lead singer, Bon Scott, who passed away earlier that year. The lyrics explore themes of mortality, with references to death and the afterlife.
Musically, “Hell’s Bells” features a slow and heavy rhythm, with a driving beat and powerful guitar riffs. Brian Johnson’s raspy vocals add to the song’s ominous and foreboding tone, creating a sense of tension and anticipation.
“Hell’s Bells” has become one of AC/DC’s most iconic songs and a staple of their live performances. It remains a favorite among fans of hard rock and heavy metal, known for its powerful sound and memorable lyrics.
9. T.N.T.
“T.N.T.” is a song by AC/DC, released in 1975 as the second track on their album of the same name. The song was written by band members Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Bon Scott.
“T.N.T.” is a hard-hitting rock anthem known for its energetic guitar riff, driving rhythm, and catchy chorus. The song’s lyrics celebrate the band’s rebellious and high-energy spirit, with references to dynamite and explosive imagery adding to its electrifying and rebellious vibe.
Musically, “T.N.T.” features Angus Young’s blistering guitar work, with his iconic riff driving the song’s infectious groove. Bon Scott’s raspy vocals and dynamic delivery further contribute to the song’s high-energy and anthemic quality.
“T.N.T.” quickly became one of AC/DC’s most popular songs and remains a fan favorite to this day. Its raw energy, memorable melody, and rebellious attitude have made it a staple of rock radio playlists and live performances, solidifying its status as a classic in the realm of hard rock music.
10. Shoot to Thrill
“Shoot to Thrill” is a song by the Australian rock band AC/DC, released in 1980 as the second track on their album “Back in Black.” It was written by band members Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Brian Johnson.
“Shoot to Thrill” is known for its energetic and hard-driving sound, featuring catchy guitar riffs, a pounding rhythm, and powerful vocals. The song’s lyrics describe the thrill of living on the edge and embracing danger, with references to adrenaline-fueled activities like fast cars and wild parties.
Musically, “Shoot to Thrill” is characterized by its driving beat, crunchy guitar sound, and anthemic chorus. Brian Johnson’s raspy vocals add to the song’s gritty and aggressive vibe, making it a favorite among fans of hard rock and heavy metal.
“Shoot to Thrill” has become one of AC/DC’s most popular songs and a staple of their live performances. It remains a favorite among fans for its high-energy sound and memorable lyrics, cementing its status as a classic of the rock genre.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
