AC/DC Band Members: The Rock Legends Behind The Music - History & More
Ever wondered what fuels a rock and roll juggernaut? It's the collective energy, talent, and sheer grit of the band members, the true architects of the sonic landscape that defines AC/DC. From their explosive beginnings to their enduring legacy, the story of AC/DC is inextricably linked to the individuals who poured their hearts and souls into its music.
AC/DC, the Australian hard rock institution from Sydney, has been electrifying audiences since their formation in November 1973. The initial spark ignited with vocalist Dave Evans, the searing lead guitar of Angus Young, the rhythmic backbone provided by Malcolm Young (Angus's older brother), bassist Larry Van Kriedt, and drummer Colin Burgess. This raw, untamed energy quickly gained momentum, setting the stage for a career that would redefine rock music. Although that original lineup was short-lived, it laid the groundwork for the iconic sound and relentless drive that would become AC/DC's trademark.
| Band Member | Position | Years Active | Notable Contributions | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angus Young | Lead Guitar | 1973-Present | Iconic stage presence, blistering guitar riffs, co-writer of numerous hits | AC/DC Official Website |
| Malcolm Young | Rhythm Guitar | 1973-2014 | Rhythmic backbone, songwriting, founding member, band leader | AC/DC Official Website |
| Bon Scott | Vocals | 1974-1980 | Charismatic frontman, powerful vocals, penned lyrics for classic AC/DC songs | AC/DC Official Website |
| Brian Johnson | Vocals | 1980-2016, 2020-Present | Replaced Bon Scott, distinctive vocals on "Back in Black" and subsequent albums | AC/DC Official Website |
| Cliff Williams | Bass Guitar | 1977-2016, 2020-Present | Solid bass lines, consistent performer, long-standing member | AC/DC Official Website |
| Phil Rudd | Drums | 1975-1983, 1995-2015, 2020-Present | Powerful drumming style, integral to the band's signature sound | AC/DC Official Website |
| Dave Evans | Vocals | 1973-1974 | Original vocalist, contributed to early AC/DC recordings | Wikipedia - Dave Evans |
| Stevie Young | Rhythm Guitar | 2014-Present | Replaced Malcolm Young, maintains the band's signature rhythm guitar style | AC/DC Official Website |
| Larry Van Kriedt | Bass Guitar | 1973-1974 | Original Bassist, part of initial formation of AC/DC | AllMusic - Larry Van Kriedt |
| Colin Burgess | Drums | 1973-1974 | Original Drummer, part of initial formation of AC/DC | Discogs - Colin Burgess |
| Chris Slade | Drums | 1989-1994, 2015-2016 | Contributed powerful drumming during specific periods | AC/DC Official Website |
| Simon Wright | Drums | 1983-1989 | Drummer during the mid-1980s era | AC/DC Official Website |
| Mark Evans | Bass Guitar | 1975-1977 | Bass Guitarist during the mid-1970s era | AC/DC Official Website |
| George Young | Bass Guitar | N/A | Although not an official member, elder brother George co-produced early albums | AC/DC Official Website |
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