AC/DC, the iconic Australian rock band formed in 1973, has left an indelible mark on the world of music with their electrifying performances and timeless hits. Known for their raw energy, electrifying guitar riffs, and powerhouse vocals, AC/DC has garnered a massive global following over the decades. From their early days in Sydney pubs to becoming one of the best-selling bands in history, AC/DC’s music has transcended generations and genres, influencing countless musicians along the way.
In this article, we delve into the top ten most popular and enduring songs that have defined AC/DC’s unparalleled legacy. Each track showcases the band’s signature style and ability to capture the essence of rock ‘n’ roll rebellion. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to their music, these songs resonate with their anthemic choruses, thunderous rhythm section, and the unmistakable voice of frontman Brian Johnson and earlier, Bon Scott.
From stadium rock anthems to gritty, high-octane classics, AC/DC’s discography is a testament to their unparalleled ability to ignite crowds and soundtrack countless memories. Join us as we celebrate the unforgettable tunes that have solidified AC/DC as titans of rock and cemented their place in music history.
1. Back in Black
“Back in Black” stands as AC/DC’s iconic anthem, celebrated globally for its electrifying energy and timeless rock prowess. Released in 1980 as the title track of their album following Bon Scott’s tragic death, the song is a tribute to resilience and a testament to their enduring spirit. The opening riff, driven by Angus Young’s distinctive guitar work, instantly captivates listeners with its raw power and infectious groove. Brian Johnson’s gritty vocals deliver lyrics that boast of overcoming adversity and reclaiming the spotlight, resonating with audiences across generations.
“Back in Black” remains a cornerstone of AC/DC’s catalog, defining their hard rock sound and influencing countless bands. Its popularity endures through its frequent use in films, commercials, and sporting events, solidifying its status as a cultural phenomenon. The song’s production by Robert John “Mutt” Lange ensures a crisp, larger-than-life sound that amplifies its impact. From its thunderous drum intro to its unforgettable chorus, “Back in Black” encapsulates the essence of AC/DC’s enduring appeal and continues to reign as one of rock music’s most beloved anthems, celebrated for its unrelenting energy and indelible mark on music history.
2. Highway to Hell
“Highway to Hell” is a legendary rock anthem by AC/DC, released in 1979 as the title track of their album. It embodies the band’s signature style with its driving rhythm, Angus Young’s electrifying guitar riffs, and Brian Johnson’s powerful vocals. The song’s rebellious lyrics capture the essence of rock ‘n’ roll, depicting a life of excess and freedom on the road to damnation. Its catchy chorus and memorable guitar solo have made it a staple at concerts and on classic rock playlists worldwide.
The track’s impact extends beyond its musical prowess, solidifying AC/DC’s reputation as masters of hard rock. “Highway to Hell” has transcended generations, remaining a cultural touchstone and an anthem of youthful defiance. Its production, helmed by Robert John “Mutt” Lange, ensures a polished yet gritty sound that perfectly complements the song’s rebellious spirit. With its infectious energy and timeless appeal, “Highway to Hell” continues to inspire new generations of rock fans and stands as one of AC/DC’s most enduring and celebrated songs.
3. Thunderstruck
“Thunderstruck” is a thunderous anthem by AC/DC, released in 1990 as a lead single from their album “The Razors Edge.” Known for its electrifying energy and iconic guitar riff, the song showcases Angus Young’s virtuosity and Brian Johnson’s commanding vocals. The track opens with a striking guitar solo that builds anticipation before erupting into a relentless rhythm, driving listeners into a frenzy.
Lyrically, “Thunderstruck” celebrates the exhilaration and power of rock ‘n’ roll, capturing the essence of AC/DC’s unyielding spirit. Its infectious chorus and dynamic tempo have made it a favorite at concerts and sporting events worldwide, where its electrifying energy ignites crowds. Produced by Bruce Fairbairn, the song’s polished production enhances its impact, ensuring a sound that resonates with listeners across genres.
“Thunderstruck” remains a cornerstone of AC/DC’s repertoire, embodying their ability to create timeless rock anthems that transcend generations. Its enduring popularity and cultural significance solidify its place as one of the band’s most iconic and beloved tracks, celebrated for its raw power and electrifying performance.
4. You Shook Me All Night Long
“You Shook Me All Night Long” is a classic rock anthem by AC/DC, released in 1980 as part of their iconic album “Back in Black.” Known for its infectious groove and memorable chorus, the song showcases AC/DC’s trademark blend of hard rock and catchy melodies. The track opens with a driving guitar riff by Angus Young, setting the stage for Brian Johnson’s raspy vocals that tell a tale of seduction and rock ‘n’ roll excess.
Lyrically, “You Shook Me All Night Long” captures the excitement and energy of a passionate encounter, with vivid imagery and a chorus that invites listeners to sing along. Its upbeat tempo and anthemic quality have made it a staple at parties, clubs, and rock concerts worldwide, where it continues to ignite audiences with its infectious energy.
Produced by Robert John “Mutt” Lange, the song’s polished production ensures a crisp, larger-than-life sound that enhances its impact. “You Shook Me All Night Long” remains one of AC/DC’s most recognizable and enduring hits, beloved for its memorable guitar work, powerhouse vocals, and timeless appeal. It stands as a testament to the band’s ability to craft enduring rock anthems that resonate across generations.
5. Hells Bells
“Hells Bells” is a haunting and powerful track by AC/DC, released in 1980 as the first track on their iconic album “Back in Black.” It serves as a dramatic opener with its ominous tolling bells and slow, brooding guitar riff, setting a dark and atmospheric tone from the outset. The song’s lyrics, delivered with intensity by Brian Johnson, reflect on mortality and the inevitability of death, juxtaposed against the backdrop of heavy rock instrumentation.
Musically, “Hells Bells” showcases AC/DC’s ability to create a sense of foreboding and anticipation through Angus Young’s masterful guitar work and the band’s tight rhythm section. The tolling bell sound, a signature of the song, adds a haunting quality that reinforces its theme.
Produced by Robert John “Mutt” Lange, the song’s production values contribute to its impactful and larger-than-life sound, making it a standout track in AC/DC’s discography. “Hells Bells” has become a staple of their live performances, resonating with audiences for its powerful atmosphere and memorable hooks. It remains a testament to AC/DC’s ability to blend heavy rock with evocative storytelling, cementing its place as one of their most iconic and enduring songs.
6. T.N.T.
“T.N.T.” is a high-energy anthem by AC/DC, originally released in 1975 on their album of the same name. Known for its infectious chorus and raw rock ‘n’ roll attitude, the song quickly became a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances. It features Angus Young’s blistering guitar riffs and Bon Scott’s charismatic vocals, delivering lyrics that celebrate rebellion, dynamism, and the thrill of living on the edge.
The track’s driving rhythm and catchy hooks have made it a classic within the hard rock genre, embodying AC/DC’s trademark sound and attitude. Its anthemic quality and energetic pace have also contributed to its enduring popularity, ensuring its place as one of the band’s most recognizable hits.
Produced by George Young and Harry Vanda, “T.N.T.” retains a raw, gritty sound that captures the essence of AC/DC’s early years and their rise to prominence in the rock music scene. With its rebellious spirit and infectious energy, “T.N.T.” continues to resonate with fans and remains a quintessential part of AC/DC’s legacy as rock legends.
7. Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap
“Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” is a gritty and rebellious track by AC/DC, originally released in 1976 on the album of the same name. The song is characterized by its infectious groove, driven by Angus Young’s unmistakable guitar riffs and Bon Scott’s dynamic vocal delivery. Lyrically, it tells the tale of a clandestine operator offering dubious services, delivered with a mix of humor and edginess that became a trademark of AC/DC’s early work.
The track’s catchy chorus and memorable guitar hooks have made it a favorite among fans and a staple of the band’s live performances. Its tongue-in-cheek lyrics and upbeat tempo reflect AC/DC’s irreverent approach to rock ‘n’ roll, solidifying their reputation as masters of hard rock with a rebellious edge.
Produced by Harry Vanda and George Young, “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” retains a raw and gritty sound that captures the essence of AC/DC’s early years. Its enduring popularity and cultural impact have cemented its place as one of the band’s most iconic and beloved tracks, celebrated for its infectious energy and rebellious spirit that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
8. For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)
“For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)” is a powerful anthem by AC/DC, released in 1981 as the title track of their album. Known for its grandeur and anthemic quality, the song opens with a majestic buildup featuring cannon fire and a choir of chanting voices, setting a dramatic stage for Angus Young’s electrifying guitar riffs and Brian Johnson’s commanding vocals.
Lyrically, “For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)” celebrates the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll and pays homage to fans and fellow musicians alike. Its powerful chorus, inviting listeners to join in the salute, has made it a rallying cry at concerts and sporting events worldwide, where its dynamic energy and larger-than-life presence resonate with audiences.
Produced by Robert John “Mutt” Lange, the song’s production values contribute to its epic sound, creating a sense of grandeur and power that encapsulate AC/DC’s stadium-rocking appeal. “For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)” remains a testament to the band’s ability to craft anthems that inspire and unite, solidifying its place as one of their most iconic and enduring songs in rock history.
9. Whole Lotta Rosie
“Whole Lotta Rosie” is a classic rock anthem by AC/DC, originally released on their 1977 album “Let There Be Rock.” The song is known for its energetic groove, driven by Angus Young’s powerful guitar riffs and Bon Scott’s charismatic vocals. Lyrically, it tells the story of a larger-than-life woman named Rosie, celebrated for her voluptuous figure and wild personality.
The track’s infectious rhythm and catchy chorus have made it a fan favorite and a staple of AC/DC’s live performances. Its upbeat tempo and playful lyrics reflect the band’s irreverent approach to rock ‘n’ roll, capturing the essence of their early sound and attitude.
Produced by Harry Vanda and George Young, “Whole Lotta Rosie” retains a raw and energetic sound that embodies AC/DC’s trademark style. Its enduring popularity and cultural impact have solidified its place as one of the band’s most beloved tracks, celebrated for its infectious energy and memorable hooks that continue to resonate with rock fans worldwide.
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 rock anthem by AC/DC, released in 1975 on their album “T.N.T.” The song is notable for its energetic bagpipe intro, played by Bon Scott, which sets the stage for Angus Young’s electrifying guitar riffs and the band’s signature hard rock sound.
Lyrically, the song reflects on the challenges and sacrifices required to succeed in the music industry, capturing the band’s journey and commitment to rock ‘n’ roll. The chorus emphasizes the determination and resilience needed to pursue a career in music, resonating with aspiring musicians and fans alike.
Produced by George Young and Harry Vanda, “It’s a Long Way to the Top” embodies AC/DC’s early raw and energetic sound. Its combination of traditional rock instrumentation with the unexpected addition of bagpipes has made it a distinctive and memorable track in the band’s discography. The song’s enduring popularity and anthemic quality have cemented its status as a classic rock anthem, celebrated for its rebellious spirit and timeless appeal.
Samuel Moore 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.
