AC/DC, the legendary Australian rock band, has carved out a permanent place in the annals of rock history with their electrifying sound, unforgettable riffs, and high-voltage performances. Known for their raw energy and no-nonsense approach to rock and roll, AC/DC has produced a catalog of songs that have become anthems for multiple generations of rock enthusiasts. From the gritty, rebellious spirit of “Highway to Hell” to the thunderous power of “Back in Black,” AC/DC’s music embodies the essence of hard rock. Their dynamic duo of Angus Young’s blistering guitar work and the powerful vocals of Bon Scott, and later Brian Johnson, has created a legacy of timeless classics. This article delves into the top 10 best AC/DC songs of all time, celebrating the tracks that have not only defined the band’s career but also left an indelible mark on the rock genre itself. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a new listener, these songs capture the raw spirit and unrelenting energy that have made AC/DC one of the most enduring and beloved bands in rock history. Get ready to rock as we count down the greatest hits from one of the most iconic bands ever to hit the stage.
1. For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)
“For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)” stands as one of AC/DC’s definitive anthems, capturing the raw energy and defiant spirit that define the band. Released in 1981 as the title track of their eighth studio album, the song immediately became a rallying cry for rock fans worldwide. With its iconic opening cannon fire and Brian Johnson’s powerful vocals, the track epitomizes AC/DC’s signature sound — hard-hitting, relentless, and unapologetically rebellious.
The song’s lyrics pay homage to the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle and the dedication of fans and performers alike. Its stadium-filling chorus and electrifying guitar riffs, courtesy of Angus and Malcolm Young, ensure its place among the band’s most beloved works. “For Those About to Rock” has become a staple of AC/DC’s live performances, further solidifying its status as a classic rock anthem.
Critically acclaimed and commercially successful, the song remains a testament to AC/DC’s enduring influence on the rock genre. Its enduring popularity continues to resonate with new generations of listeners, making it a timeless favorite among fans of hard rock and heavy metal music.
2. Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap
“Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” is a quintessential AC/DC track that encapsulates their gritty, no-nonsense rock ‘n’ roll attitude. Originally released in 1976 as the title track of their third studio album, the song immediately grabbed attention with its catchy guitar riffs and Bon Scott’s unmistakable vocal delivery. The lyrics, centered around a fictional character offering nefarious services, add a tongue-in-cheek humor that became a hallmark of the band’s early repertoire.
The song’s driving rhythm and memorable chorus have made it a staple in AC/DC’s live performances and a fan favorite for decades. It’s characterized by Angus Young’s electrifying guitar solo and the band’s trademark high-energy performance style, which have solidified its place in rock history. Despite initially being released only in Australia, “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” gained international acclaim upon subsequent releases, further cementing AC/DC’s status as one of rock music’s most influential acts.
Its rebellious spirit and infectious groove have resonated with generations of rock fans, ensuring its enduring popularity and recognition as one of AC/DC’s best-loved songs.
3. Back in Black
“Back in Black” stands as an iconic anthem that defines AC/DC’s legacy in rock music. Released in 1980 as the title track of their seventh studio album, the song marked a triumphant return after the tragic death of lead vocalist Bon Scott. Brian Johnson’s powerful vocals, coupled with Angus Young’s electrifying guitar riff, instantly catapulted the song to global acclaim.
The track’s driving rhythm and memorable lyrics pay homage to the band’s resilience and determination to carry on despite adversity. Its infectious energy and uncompromising attitude have made it a timeless classic, celebrated for its stadium-filling chorus and Angus Young’s legendary guitar solo.
“Back in Black” has consistently ranked among the greatest rock songs of all time, earning critical praise and commercial success worldwide. It remains a cornerstone of AC/DC’s live performances and continues to inspire new generations of rock enthusiasts with its unbridled intensity and rebellious spirit.
With its enduring popularity and cultural impact, “Back in Black” stands as a testament to AC/DC’s influence on rock music and their ability to create timeless, electrifying anthems that resonate across generations.
4. Rock and Roll Ain’t Noise Pollution
“Rock and Roll Ain’t Noise Pollution” is a powerful declaration of AC/DC’s commitment to the raw, unapologetic essence of rock music. Released in 1980 as part of their landmark album “Back in Black,” the song serves as a defiant anthem against critics who dismissed rock ‘n’ roll as mere noise. Brian Johnson’s gritty vocals, backed by Angus Young’s blistering guitar work, deliver a message of solidarity with rock fans worldwide.
The track’s straightforward lyrics celebrate the rebellious spirit and enduring appeal of rock music, emphasizing its importance in the lives of fans and musicians alike. Its infectious chorus and dynamic instrumentation showcase AC/DC’s signature sound, characterized by high-energy riffs and a driving rhythm that commands attention.
“Rock and Roll Ain’t Noise Pollution” has become a fan favorite and a staple in AC/DC’s live performances, resonating with audiences for its unabashed celebration of rock culture. The song’s enduring popularity and cultural impact underscore its status as one of AC/DC’s most iconic contributions to the rock genre, reinforcing their legacy as pioneers of hard rock music.
5. You Shook Me All Night Long
“You Shook Me All Night Long” stands as one of AC/DC’s most enduring and recognizable hits, celebrated for its infectious energy and catchy hooks. Released in 1980 as part of the iconic album “Back in Black,” the song quickly became a global sensation. Brian Johnson’s raspy vocals, coupled with Angus Young’s electrifying guitar riffs, drive the song’s irresistible groove.
The track’s lyrics tell a tale of lust and attraction, delivered with AC/DC’s trademark wit and swagger. Its anthemic chorus and memorable guitar solo have made it a staple on classic rock playlists and a favorite at live concerts. “You Shook Me All Night Long” captures the essence of AC/DC’s appeal: straightforward rock ‘n’ roll that’s impossible not to move to.
Critically acclaimed and commercially successful, the song continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, cementing its place as a timeless rock anthem. Its cultural impact and enduring popularity make it a standout in AC/DC’s illustrious discography, showcasing their ability to create music that transcends generations and defines the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll.
6. Highway to Hell
“Highway to Hell” is an iconic anthem by AC/DC, released in 1979 as the title track of their album of the same name. The song epitomizes the band’s hard-rocking style, featuring Bon Scott’s distinctive vocals and Angus Young’s electrifying guitar riffs. Its energetic rhythm and rebellious lyrics about life on the road have made it a timeless classic in rock music.
The track’s catchy chorus and infectious groove have made it a staple in AC/DC’s live performances and a favorite among fans worldwide. Despite its controversial title, “Highway to Hell” is celebrated for its unapologetic embrace of rock ‘n’ roll’s wild side, resonating with audiences for its high-octane energy and defiant spirit.
Critically acclaimed and commercially successful, the song has solidified its place as one of AC/DC’s most enduring hits. Its influence on rock culture is undeniable, inspiring countless musicians and continuing to captivate new generations of listeners with its raw power and unmistakable sound. “Highway to Hell” remains a testament to AC/DC’s status as legends of rock, showcasing their ability to create anthems that define an era.
7. Hells Bells
“Hells Bells” is a monumental track by AC/DC, released in 1980 as the opening song of their album “Back in Black.” It serves as a powerful tribute to their late vocalist Bon Scott, ushering in a new era with Brian Johnson at the helm. The song begins with ominous church bells tolling, setting a foreboding tone that contrasts sharply with its explosive guitar-driven rhythm.
Brian Johnson’s gritty vocals soar over Angus Young’s iconic guitar riff, creating a haunting and electrifying atmosphere. The lyrics, with themes of mortality and the afterlife, add depth to the track’s heavy yet melodic composition. “Hells Bells” showcases AC/DC’s ability to blend raw energy with memorable melodies, capturing listeners’ attention from the first toll of the bells to the final crashing chord.
As one of AC/DC’s signature songs, “Hells Bells” has become a staple of their live performances and a fan favorite. Its enduring popularity and cultural impact underscore its status as a classic in rock music history, demonstrating AC/DC’s influence and their ability to craft anthems that resonate across generations.
8. Thunderstruck
“Thunderstruck” is a high-voltage anthem by AC/DC, released in 1990 as the lead single from their album “The Razors Edge.” The song is instantly recognizable for its electrifying guitar riff, driven by Angus Young’s dynamic playing style. Brian Johnson’s powerhouse vocals complement the track’s relentless energy, creating a thrilling sonic experience that captures the essence of rock ‘n’ roll.
The song’s lyrics, inspired by the band’s experiences on tour and the intensity of live performances, celebrate the electrifying rush of music and its impact on both performers and audiences. “Thunderstruck” has become synonymous with AC/DC’s ability to deliver hard-hitting rock anthems that resonate across generations.
Critically acclaimed and commercially successful, “Thunderstruck” remains a cornerstone of AC/DC’s live shows, often closing out their performances with its explosive energy. The song’s enduring popularity has solidified its place as one of the band’s most iconic tracks, inspiring countless covers and tributes while continuing to captivate audiences with its raw power and unmistakable sound.
9. Shoot to Thrill
“Shoot to Thrill” is a high-octane rock anthem by AC/DC, featured on their 1980 album “Back in Black.” Known for its driving rhythm and powerful vocals by Brian Johnson, the song exemplifies the band’s trademark blend of raw energy and infectious groove. Angus Young’s electrifying guitar riffs and Malcolm Young’s steady rhythm guitar provide a solid foundation for the track’s adrenaline-fueled intensity.
The song’s lyrics, characterized by themes of adventure and living on the edge, resonate with the rebellious spirit that defines AC/DC’s music. “Shoot to Thrill” has become a fan favorite and a staple in their live performances, celebrated for its anthemic chorus and memorable guitar solos that showcase the band’s musical prowess.
Critically acclaimed and widely recognized, “Shoot to Thrill” remains a testament to AC/DC’s enduring influence on rock music. Its enduring popularity and cultural impact have solidified its place as one of the band’s standout tracks, continuing to captivate audiences with its high-energy performance and unmistakable rock ‘n’ roll attitude.
10. T.N.T.
“T.N.T.” is a classic rock anthem by AC/DC, originally released on their 1975 album of the same name. Known for its explosive energy and iconic chorus, the song quickly became a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s early repertoire. With Bon Scott’s charismatic vocals leading the charge and Angus Young’s electrifying guitar riffs, “T.N.T.” captures the essence of AC/DC’s raw, uncompromising style.
The song’s lyrics, featuring rebellious themes and a tongue-in-cheek attitude, resonate with the band’s ethos of living fast and loud. Its high-energy rhythm and memorable hooks have made it a timeless classic in rock music, inspiring generations of fans and musicians alike.
“T.N.T.” remains a standout track in AC/DC’s discography, celebrated for its infectious energy and rebellious spirit. Its enduring popularity has solidified its place as one of the band’s most beloved songs, continuing to captivate audiences with its relentless drive and unmistakable rock ‘n’ roll charm.
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.
