AC/DC, the iconic Australian rock band formed in 1973 by brothers Malcolm and Angus Young, has left an indelible mark on the music world with their electrifying performances and hard-hitting rock anthems. Known for their raw energy, powerful guitar riffs, and unforgettable vocals, AC/DC has become a cornerstone of rock history, influencing countless bands and captivating millions of fans worldwide. Their extensive catalog boasts numerous hits that have stood the test of time, from the thunderous “Back in Black” to the rebellious “Highway to Hell.” In this article, we delve into the top 10 best AC/DC songs of all time, celebrating the tracks that define their legacy. Each song on this list showcases the band’s unique sound and enduring appeal, capturing the essence of what makes AC/DC a powerhouse in rock music. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to their music, these songs are sure to resonate with their timeless rock ‘n’ roll spirit. So crank up the volume, feel the rush of the guitars, and join us as we explore the very best of AC/DC’s legendary discography.
1. Back in Black
“Back in Black,” released in 1980, is undeniably one of AC/DC’s most iconic tracks and a defining anthem of rock. As the title track of their album of the same name, it marked a triumphant return for the band following the death of their original lead singer, Bon Scott. With Brian Johnson stepping into Scott’s shoes, “Back in Black” showcases the band’s relentless energy and robust rock sound.
The song’s signature riff, crafted by Angus Young, immediately grabs attention with its powerful, electrifying guitar work. This riff has become one of the most recognizable in rock history, and the track’s driving beat, coupled with its gritty vocals, epitomizes AC/DC’s signature style. Lyrically, “Back in Black” serves as a celebratory nod to the band’s return, with a tone that’s both defiant and exhilarating.
Its influence extends beyond its era, cementing its place in rock culture. The track’s undeniable appeal and high-octane performance have made it a staple in live performances and a favorite among fans. “Back in Black” remains a quintessential rock song, embodying the raw, unfiltered energy that has defined AC/DC’s enduring legacy.
2. Highway to Hell
Released in 1979 as the title track of AC/DC’s album, “Highway to Hell” is a quintessential anthem of rock and roll rebellion. This song, featuring Bon Scott’s distinctive vocals, epitomizes the band’s raw energy and unapologetic spirit. The track’s driving beat and unforgettable riff, crafted by Angus Young, immediately capture the listener’s attention, setting the stage for an exhilarating musical journey.
Lyrically, “Highway to Hell” embraces a defiant, rebellious attitude, with its themes of living life on the edge and defying societal norms. The song’s catchy chorus and powerful guitar work make it a standout track in AC/DC’s catalog, resonating with fans for its infectious energy and bold attitude.
“Highway to Hell” became one of AC/DC’s most enduring hits, embodying the rock and roll lifestyle and cementing the band’s place in music history. Its influence is evident in its continued popularity, frequent appearances in pop culture, and its role as a staple in the band’s live performances. The track remains a symbol of AC/DC’s legendary status and an essential part of their legacy.
3. Thunderstruck
Released in 1990 on the album “The Razors Edge”, “Thunderstruck” is one of AC/DC’s most electrifying and iconic songs. The track opens with a memorable guitar riff, played by Angus Young, that immediately grabs attention with its lightning-fast, thunderous energy. This riff, paired with a driving beat and Brian Johnson’s powerful vocals, sets the stage for a high-octane rock experience.
Lyrically, “Thunderstruck” paints a vivid picture of an intense, electrifying journey, with the recurring theme of being struck by an overwhelming force. The song’s infectious energy and the dynamic interplay between the instruments create a thrilling atmosphere that resonates with listeners.
“Thunderstruck” has become a staple at sports events and in popular culture, often used to build excitement and adrenaline. Its exhilarating sound and unforgettable riff have made it a fan favorite and a signature piece in AC/DC’s live performances. The track’s impact on rock music is undeniable, showcasing the band’s ability to deliver high-energy, anthemic rock that stands the test of time.
4. You Shook Me All Night Long
Released in 1980 as part of the “Back in Black” album, “You Shook Me All Night Long” is one of AC/DC’s most beloved and enduring hits. With its infectious groove and catchy lyrics, the song exemplifies the band’s ability to blend rock and roll energy with memorable hooks.
The track opens with a driving guitar riff by Angus Young, setting the stage for a high-energy anthem that’s both fun and powerful. Brian Johnson’s vocals are lively and charismatic, perfectly complementing the song’s upbeat rhythm. The lyrics, which celebrate a wild, unforgettable night, are delivered with a playful and confident swagger, adding to the song’s irresistible charm.
“You Shook Me All Night Long” quickly became a staple in AC/DC’s live performances, known for its ability to get crowds jumping and singing along. Its popularity endures in popular culture, making it a quintessential party anthem. The song’s blend of catchy melody, rock-solid instrumentation, and exuberant delivery ensures its place as a classic in AC/DC’s impressive catalog.
5. Hell’s Bells
Released in 1980 on the “Back in Black” album, “Hell’s Bells” is a powerful and atmospheric track that showcases AC/DC’s ability to blend dramatic intensity with rock solid performance. The song opens with the chilling toll of a bell, creating an ominous atmosphere that sets the stage for the high-energy rock that follows.
The track features Angus Young’s unmistakable guitar riff, which drives the song forward with its powerful and relentless energy. Brian Johnson’s vocals are gritty and commanding, perfectly matching the song’s dark and intense mood. Lyrically, “Hell’s Bells” delves into themes of defiance and resilience, embodying the band’s rebellious spirit.
“Hell’s Bells” stands out for its dramatic introduction and the way it builds to a thunderous climax. It has become a staple of AC/DC’s live performances, known for its ability to energize crowds and add a dramatic flair to their shows. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its combination of evocative imagery, driving rock rhythms, and the band’s signature high-voltage style.
6. T.N.T.
Released in 1975 on the album of the same name, “T.N.T.” is one of AC/DC’s most explosive and memorable tracks. The song perfectly encapsulates the band’s raw energy and rebellious attitude, making it a staple in their rock arsenal.
The track kicks off with a powerful riff by Angus Young that sets a high-octane tone for the song. Brian Johnson’s vocals are fierce and commanding, delivering lyrics that celebrate a defiant, high-energy lifestyle. The chorus, with its anthemic “T.N.T.” chant, is both catchy and explosive, embodying the song’s spirit of rebellion and intensity.
Lyrically, “T.N.T.” is a brash declaration of explosive power and confidence, reflecting the band’s larger-than-life persona. The song’s infectious energy and driving beat have made it a fan favorite and a highlight of AC/DC’s live performances. Its impact on rock music is significant, showcasing the band’s ability to blend high-energy rock with memorable hooks and a bold attitude.
7. Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap
Released in 1976 as the title track of AC/DC’s album, “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” is a classic anthem of the band’s early years. The song stands out for its gritty, mischievous charm and its playful take on rock and roll.
The track opens with a distinctive, laid-back riff by Angus Young, which sets the stage for the song’s irreverent lyrics and upbeat rhythm. Bon Scott’s vocals are both charismatic and cheeky, delivering lines that paint a colorful picture of dubious deals and under-the-table transactions. The chorus, with its catchy, repetitive hook, is designed to be shouted along to, adding to the song’s rebellious spirit.
“Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” became one of AC/DC’s signature songs, embodying the band’s knack for combining edgy, humorous lyrics with infectious rock rhythms. The song’s raw energy and memorable hooks make it a standout track in AC/DC’s catalog, and its enduring appeal is a testament to the band’s ability to create rock music that is both bold and fun.
8. Whole Lotta Rosie
Released in 1977 on the album “Let There Be Rock”, “Whole Lotta Rosie” is one of AC/DC’s most exhilarating and high-energy tracks. The song, inspired by a real-life encounter, is a testament to the band’s ability to blend raw power with irresistible rock and roll charm.
The track kicks off with a powerful, driving riff by Angus Young, immediately grabbing attention with its relentless energy. Bon Scott’s vocals are electrifying, delivering the lyrics with a combination of swagger and intensity. The song’s chorus, with its unforgettable hook, captures the essence of rock and roll exuberance.
Lyrically, “Whole Lotta Rosie” celebrates a larger-than-life figure with a sense of humor and bravado. The song’s exuberant energy and playful storytelling make it a fan favorite and a staple in AC/DC’s live shows. Its impact is evident in its continued popularity, embodying the band’s signature style of high-octane rock combined with bold, memorable lyrics. “Whole Lotta Rosie” remains a standout track in AC/DC’s catalog, showcasing their ability to deliver powerful, anthemic rock.
9. It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)
Released in 1975 on the album “T.N.T.”, “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)” is a quintessential AC/DC anthem that captures the gritty reality of pursuing rock stardom. The song stands out for its unique blend of rock and roll energy with a distinctive bagpipe introduction, played by AC/DC’s then-bagpiper, Bon Scott.
The track begins with a memorable bagpipe riff, creating an intriguing and energetic opening that leads into a driving rock rhythm. Angus Young’s guitar work is both powerful and engaging, complementing Bon Scott’s robust vocals. The lyrics provide a candid and humorous look at the challenges and hardships faced by aspiring rock musicians, delivered with a sense of camaraderie and defiant spirit.
“It’s a Long Way to the Top” resonates with fans for its anthemic chorus and its celebration of the rock and roll lifestyle, despite the struggles. The song’s energetic performance and its honest portrayal of the rock journey make it a standout track in AC/DC’s catalog, highlighting the band’s ability to blend authenticity with high-octane rock.
10. Moneytalks
Released in 1990 on the album “The Razors Edge”, “Moneytalks” is a quintessential AC/DC track that blends the band’s signature rock sound with sharp, satirical lyrics. The song showcases the band’s ability to combine hard-hitting riffs with clever commentary on the power and influence of money.
The track opens with a catchy, driving riff by Angus Young that immediately sets a dynamic and energetic tone. Brian Johnson’s vocals are assertive and engaging, delivering the song’s lyrics with a mix of confidence and irony. The chorus, with its memorable hook, underscores the song’s theme of money’s impact on people’s lives and its power to influence.
Lyrically, “Moneytalks” offers a biting critique of materialism and the way wealth can shape perceptions and behaviors. The song’s infectious energy and sharp, witty lyrics make it a standout in AC/DC’s catalog, and it has become a staple in the band’s live performances. “Moneytalks” captures the essence of AC/DC’s rock ethos while providing a satirical edge, making it a lasting favorite among fans.
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.
