Angus Young
Angus Young (born 31 March 1955) is a Scottish-born Australian musician, best known as the co-founder, lead guitarist, and primary songwriter of the hard rock band AC/DC.[1][2] The youngest of eight children in a musical family, Young was born in Glasgow, Scotland, and emigrated with his family to Sydney, Australia, at the age of eight.[1] Influenced by rock and roll pioneers like Chuck Berry, he began playing guitar as a teenager despite initial challenges with his small hands, and by age 18, he co-formed AC/DC in 1973 with his older brother Malcolm on rhythm guitar.[1] Young's signature stage persona—featuring a schoolboy uniform, shorts, and cap—emerged in 1974 as a playful suggestion from his sister, complementing his high-energy performances marked by the "duck walk" and relentless headbanging.[3] AC/DC achieved global breakthrough with their 1979 album Highway to Hell, their first million-seller, followed by the 1980 release Back in Black, a tribute to late singer Bon Scott that became one of the best-selling albums of all time with over 50 million copies sold worldwide.[1][2] Young's raw, blues-infused riffs on a Gibson SG guitar, delivered through Marshall amplification, define the band's sound, blending punkish aggression with melodic hooks on anthems like "Highway to Hell," "Back in Black," and "You Shook Me All Night Long."[3][2] Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2003 alongside his bandmates, Young has been recognized for his influence, ranking 38th on Rolling Stone's 2023 list of the 250 greatest guitarists of all time.[2][3] AC/DC, with Young as the sole continuous member, continues to tour and record, including the 2020 album Power Up and the ongoing Power Up World Tour into 2025.[4][5]Early life
Family and childhood
Angus McKinnon Young was born on 31 March 1955 in Glasgow, Scotland, as the youngest of eight children in a family with deep roots in the working-class Cranhill district.[6] His parents, William Young (1911–1985), a joiner who worked in factories including one producing pram wheels, and Margaret Young (1913–1988), raised the family in modest circumstances amid the post-war economic challenges of the area.[7] The siblings included brothers Malcolm (born 1953, later AC/DC's rhythm guitarist), George (1946–2017, a founding member of the Easybeats), and Alexander (1938–1997), several of whom pursued musical careers, fostering an environment steeped in music from an early age.[8] Young's early childhood in Cranhill was shaped by poverty, high unemployment, and the harsh living conditions of Glasgow's East End, including a notorious child poverty rate that persisted in the neighborhood.[9] The family endured particularly severe winters, culminating in the "big freeze" of 1962–1963, Scotland's worst on record, with up to 8 feet of snow and temperatures dropping to -20°C, which exacerbated their hardships and prompted thoughts of emigration.[10] In mid-1963, seeking better opportunities amid economic difficulties, the Youngs relocated to Sydney, Australia, initially staying at the Villawood Migrant Hostel before settling in the city's western suburbs.[11][12] Upon arrival, the family moved into a modest home at 4 Burleigh Street in Burwood, a site that later became significant in rock history as the birthplace of AC/DC.[13] Young attended Ashfield Boys High School in Sydney's inner west, but found the academic environment unappealing and dropped out at age 15 to focus on his interests.[14] The Burwood residence, a symbol of the family's immigrant journey and early stability in Australia, was mistakenly demolished in December 2024 by developers under a state housing program, despite its cultural importance, marking the end of a tangible link to the Youngs' formative years.[15][16]Introduction to music
Young's introduction to music occurred in his family's vibrant, music-filled home in Sydney, where his older siblings regularly played instruments and records, sparking his interest at the age of five or six. The household, shaped by the musical pursuits of brothers like George (of the Easybeats) and Malcolm, provided constant exposure to rock and roll, encouraging Angus to pick up the guitar early on. He received just one formal guitar lesson from his brother Alexander but quickly became self-taught, honing his skills through relentless practice despite limited resources.[1][17] He acquired his first guitar—a cheap second-hand acoustic model—and devoted hours to playing in his bedroom, experimenting with ways to amplify his sound, including modifying a radio into a rudimentary amp by opening it up and connecting his guitar directly. This DIY ingenuity reflected his determination to pursue music without formal training or expensive gear, allowing him to explore chord variations and simple riffs inspired by his siblings' records. By his early teens, Young's self-taught technique had evolved into a distinctive, energetic style rooted in blues and rock basics.[18][19] To fund his growing passion, Young dropped out of Ashfield Boys High School at age 15 and took jobs as a printer's apprentice, including typesetting for publications, which provided income for better instruments and amps. These roles, though brief and unfulfilling, enabled him to dive into Sydney's pub scene, where he performed with local bands like Kantuckee and Tantrum, gaining his first stage experience amid rowdy crowds. These early gigs sharpened his performance instincts before any formal band commitments.[20][21][22]Career
Pre-AC/DC work
Before forming AC/DC, Angus Young contributed to several early musical projects in Sydney's burgeoning rock scene during the early 1970s. His first notable professional involvement came through collaboration with his older brother Malcolm in the Marcus Hook Roll Band, a psychedelic rock studio project spearheaded by their brother George Young and producer Harry Vanda, both formerly of The Easybeats.[23] The band, which operated primarily as a vehicle for Vanda and Young's songwriting, featured Angus on guitar for recordings including the 1972 single "Natural Man" and the 1973 album Tales of Old Grand-Daddy, marking his initial foray into professional studio work with a blend of bluesy riffs and experimental elements.[24][25] Young also played in short-lived local Sydney bands, including Kantuckee around 1972, where he handled lead guitar alongside vocalist Bob McGlynn and drummer Trevor James, and Tantrum shortly thereafter, focusing on covers and original blues-rock material in informal settings.[26] These groups performed at small venues, helping him hone his self-taught guitar skills amid the city's vibrant pub rock circuit, where he built a grassroots reputation for high-energy performances infused with raw blues-rock energy.[27] This period reflected the broader Australian rock environment of the time, with Young drawing inspiration from the success of homegrown acts like The Easybeats, whose hits and energetic style—exemplified by George's involvement—shaped the local scene's emphasis on straightforward, riff-driven rock that influenced Young's pre-fame development.[28]Formation and early success of AC/DC
AC/DC was formed in November 1973 in Sydney, Australia, by brothers Malcolm Young on rhythm guitar and Angus Young on lead guitar, with bassist Larry Van Kriedt and drummer Colin Burgess rounding out the initial lineup. The band's name originated from a suggestion by the Young brothers' sister Margaret, who noticed the "AC/DC" label on her sewing machine, referring to alternating current/direct current, which the siblings adopted for its implication of high energy. Vocalist Dave Evans completed the original configuration, and the group quickly began rehearsing in a family home, drawing on the brothers' experiences in local bands to craft a raw, high-voltage rock sound.[29][30][31] The band made their live debut on December 31, 1973, at Chequers nightclub in Sydney, a gritty venue in the city's burgeoning pub rock scene, where they performed covers and originals to a small but enthusiastic crowd. Early shows followed in similar Sydney pubs, helping AC/DC build a grassroots following amid frequent lineup shifts; Burgess and Van Kriedt were soon replaced, but the core Young brothers remained. In July 1974, they released their debut single, "Can I Sit Next to You, Girl," recorded with Evans on vocals, which captured their energetic blues-infused hard rock style and gained modest airplay on Australian radio. However, tensions led to Evans' departure in September 1974, prompting the band to enlist Bon Scott—formerly of Fraternity—as permanent vocalist, whose gritty delivery and stage charisma solidified their blues-hard rock identity.[32][33][34] AC/DC's early success in Australia accelerated with their debut album, High Voltage, released on February 17, 1975, featuring tracks like the title song and "Love Song" that showcased Scott's integration and the band's thunderous riffs. The album, produced by older brother George Young and Harry Vanda, sold steadily through relentless touring on the pub circuit, where packed venues from Sydney to Melbourne fostered a dedicated fanbase amid the 1970s rock scene. Their second Australian album, T.N.T., arrived on December 1, 1975, expanding on this momentum with anthems such as the title track and "It's a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock 'n' Roll)," which incorporated bagpipes for a distinctive edge. By 1976, an international version of High Voltage—compiling selections from both Australian releases—was issued in the US and Europe, while Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap followed in September, marking their first non-Australian studio album and propelling wider recognition through hits like the title song. These efforts, fueled by exhaustive Australian tours, established AC/DC as pub rock titans before their global breakthrough.[35][36][37][38]Major albums and global fame
Following the death of lead singer Bon Scott on February 19, 1980, AC/DC faced a pivotal moment, but the band quickly rebounded by recruiting Brian Johnson as vocalist in April 1980.[39][40] This lineup change led to the recording and release of Back in Black on July 25, 1980, which became a monumental success, selling over 50 million copies worldwide and ranking as one of the best-selling albums of all time.[41][42] The album's raw energy and hits like the title track propelled AC/DC to international stardom, marking a commercial breakthrough after the tragedy. Building on this momentum, AC/DC released several key albums in the 1980s and 1990s that solidified their global dominance. For Those About to Rock We Salute You, issued in November 1981, topped the Billboard 200 chart for three weeks, showcasing anthemic tracks that emphasized the band's high-voltage rock ethos.[43] In 1990, The Razors Edge arrived on September 24, featuring the iconic single "Thunderstruck," which highlighted Angus Young's blistering guitar work and became a staple in the band's live repertoire.[44] The album's success extended into 1995 with Ballbreaker, released on September 26, which reunited the band with drummer Phil Rudd and delivered hard-hitting riffs that reinforced AC/DC's enduring appeal.[45] AC/DC's rise was amplified by extensive global tours, including headline slots at the Monsters of Rock festival in the 1980s, such as the 1981 event at Castle Donington with acts like Whitesnake and Blue Öyster Cult, and the 1984 edition alongside Van Halen and Ozzy Osbourne.[46] These performances, often in arenas and stadiums worldwide, drew massive crowds and cemented the band's reputation for electrifying live shows. In recognition of their impact, AC/DC was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003, with brothers Angus and Malcolm Young accepting the honor on behalf of the band during a ceremony featuring Steven Tyler's induction speech.[2] Commercially, AC/DC achieved over 200 million records sold worldwide by the early 2000s, a milestone attributed in large part to the Young brothers' songwriting contributions, as Angus and Malcolm received credits on nearly every track across the band's catalog, driving the creative core of their hits.[41][47] This era of the 1980s and 1990s represented the peak of AC/DC's global fame, transforming them from hard rock pioneers into enduring icons.Later career and recent tours
In the later stages of AC/DC's career, the band navigated significant personal and legal challenges while continuing to release music and tour extensively. Their 2008 album Black Ice marked a commercial resurgence, but it was during this period that early symptoms of rhythm guitarist Malcolm Young's dementia began to emerge, as revealed by Angus Young in interviews. By 2014, Malcolm's condition had progressed to early-onset dementia, leading to his retirement from the band after over four decades as a founding member.[48][49][50] Malcolm's nephew, Stevie Young, stepped in as the permanent rhythm guitarist, debuting on the band's subsequent album Rock or Bust later that year.[51] The release of Rock or Bust was overshadowed by legal troubles involving drummer Phil Rudd, who faced arrest on charges including an alleged murder plot and drug possession, though he was later reinstated after the charges were reduced.[52][53] AC/DC's next studio album, Power Up, arrived in November 2020 as a heartfelt tribute to Malcolm Young, with Angus describing it as a celebration of his brother's enduring influence on the band's sound.[54] The record, featuring the lineup of Angus Young, Brian Johnson, Phil Rudd, Cliff Williams, and Stevie Young, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and topped charts in multiple countries, including the UK where it became the fastest-selling album of 2020.[55][56] As of 2025, the band has not announced or released any new studio material beyond Power Up. The Power Up tour, supporting the album, resumed live performances after a long hiatus, beginning with European stadium dates in 2024, including shows at RCF Arena in Reggio Emilia on May 25 and Wembley Stadium in London on July 3.[57] The North American leg followed in 2025, with key stops such as Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh on May 8 and Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland on May 28.[58] The tour then shifted to an Australian homecoming in November and December 2025, featuring multiple nights at Melbourne Cricket Ground on November 16 and Accor Stadium in Sydney on November 21 and 25.[57] On November 3, 2025, AC/DC announced an extension of the tour into 2026, adding 21 dates across South America and additional North American venues, including Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend on September 4, 2026, to sustain their global momentum.[59][60][61] At age 70 during the 2025 shows, Angus Young maintained his signature high-energy stage presence, delivering extended guitar solos and his iconic duckwalk across the stage, as seen in performances of tracks like "Riff Raff" at the Pittsburgh concert.[62] Fans and critics praised his unrelenting vigor, underscoring AC/DC's resilience amid lineup changes and health hurdles.[63]Personal life
Marriage and residences
Angus Young has been married to Ellen van Lochem since 1980. The couple met in 1979 in Arnhem, Netherlands, during an AC/DC tour, when Dutch guitarist Adrian Vandenberg—whose band Teaser had opened for AC/DC—introduced Young to van Lochem, a university acquaintance of Vandenberg's, backstage after a concert.[64] They have no children but share close family ties with Young's siblings, including the late Malcolm Young, and nephews such as Stevie Young, who has performed with AC/DC.[65] Young maintains a low-profile lifestyle centered on music, avoiding the Hollywood scene despite his fame and instead dividing time between residences in Australia and Europe. His primary home is a harborside mansion in Sydney's Kangaroo Point area.[66] He owns a home in the UK (including London), and a large mansion in the quiet Dutch village of Aalten, near where he met his wife, featuring a full recording studio.[67][65] The couple occasionally travels as a family in connection with tours, prioritizing privacy.[66]Health and habits
Angus Young has maintained a lifelong teetotaler lifestyle, abstaining from alcohol and drugs, which he has credited with contributing to his sustained energy levels throughout his career.[68][69] In contrast, he has been a heavy smoker of cigarettes for decades, with no public indications of quit attempts as of 2025.[70][71] His stable marriage has aided in upholding this consistent routine.[72] Young's fitness regimen relies primarily on the physical demands of his high-energy stage performances, supplemented by regular jogging to maintain stamina into his later years.[72] No major illnesses have been reported, enabling him to continue touring vigorously with AC/DC at age 70 during their 2025 Power Up North American tour.[73] In philanthropy, Young has supported music education initiatives through donations, including autographed guitars auctioned for the Gibson Gives program and the National Museum of African American Music's education fund, as well as contributions to dementia-related music therapy programs in Canada.[74][75]Playing style and influences
Key influences
Angus Young's guitar playing was profoundly shaped by his older brother Malcolm Young, whose rhythm guitar style provided the foundational backbone for AC/DC's sound. In interviews, Angus has described Malcolm as the "solid thing" that anchors the band's music, emphasizing how his brother's precise, driving rhythms allowed Angus to layer energetic leads without overwhelming the structure.[76] Malcolm's use of simple, propulsive chord progressions influenced Angus to prioritize groove and tightness in performances, creating a symbiotic interplay that defined their dual-guitar dynamic.[77] A primary external influence on Young's style came from Chuck Berry, whose rock 'n' roll riffs and energetic stage antics directly inspired Young's approach to riff crafting and performance. Young has repeatedly cited Berry as his ultimate "Rock God," praising his authentic embodiment of the genre through songs like "Johnny B. Goode" and "Roll Over Beethoven," from which Young learned foundational licks that emphasized catchy, repetitive phrases.[78] Berry's signature duckwalk also left a mark, as Young adopted a similar high-energy strut to engage audiences, blending it with his own schoolboy persona for iconic live presence.[79] Young's incorporation of blues elements stems from artists like Freddie King, Muddy Waters, and B.B. King, who informed his use of pentatonic scales and expressive phrasing. He has highlighted Freddie King's fiery tone and attack as particularly resonant, drawing from tracks that showcased raw emotional delivery to fuel his own blues-infused solos.[80] Exposure to Muddy Waters' Chicago blues and B.B. King's melodic bends further shaped Young's preference for soulful, scale-based improvisation over technical flash, grounding AC/DC's hard rock in traditional blues structures.[81] Other key inspirations include Jimi Hendrix's showmanship, which captivated Young upon first hearing "Purple Haze," igniting his passion for innovative guitar expression and stage charisma.[82] Figures from the Yardbirds era, such as Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck, also influenced his tonal experimentation and versatility, with Young admiring their ability to blend blues with rock innovation in albums like Beck's Blow by Blow.[83] Growing up in Australia, Young gained early exposure to UK imports like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones, which introduced him to pop-rock energy and attitude, while local band The Easybeats—featuring brother George Young—provided a direct model for riff-driven songwriting.[84] This foundation evolved into Young's signature use of power chords and straightforward structures, favoring infectious riffs over complex solos to maintain high-energy, accessible rock.[17]Signature techniques and stage presence
Angus Young's guitar style is rooted in blues-rock traditions, characterized by economical yet expressive pentatonic licks that prioritize rhythmic drive and groove over technical flash. He frequently employs the E minor pentatonic scale (E-G-A-B-D) and A blues scale (A-C-D-D#-E-G) for solos, incorporating techniques such as wide string bends, hammer-ons, and pull-offs to infuse his playing with a raw, vocal-like quality. For instance, in tracks like "T.N.T.," Young's rapid scale runs and aggressive bends create tension and release, drawing from blues phrasing while maintaining a propulsive rock energy that supports AC/DC's high-voltage sound.[85] In songwriting, Young has co-authored many of AC/DC's signature riffs, often building them around simple power chord progressions that emphasize hooks and momentum. The iconic riff for "Highway to Hell" originated from Young during a 1979 session in Miami, where he sketched the driving "da-da-da" pattern on guitar alongside brother Malcolm, later refining it to lock with the rhythm section. Similarly, the opening riff of "Thunderstruck" began as an acoustic warmup exercise Young recorded on cassette at home, which Malcolm encouraged him to develop into a full electric hook during sessions for The Razors Edge in 1990, adding chant-like elements for dramatic effect. Young's contributions extend to subtler influences, such as the bagpipe-infused guitar lines in "It's a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock 'n' Roll)," which nod to the band's Scottish heritage through reel-like phrasing in the 1975 track.[86][87][14] Young's stage presence is as electrifying as his playing, defined by high-energy antics that amplify AC/DC's rebellious ethos. He performs in his signature schoolboy uniform—a short-sleeved shirt, shorts, and tie—which he adopted in 1974 at his sister Margaret's suggestion to evoke youthful mischief after leaving school, turning it into an unchanging symbol of eternal adolescence that has remained consistent since the band's early days. Onstage, Young channels Chuck Berry's influence through the duckwalk, exaggerated epileptic-style headbanging and spasms, crawling across the floor, and even being hoisted onto fans' shoulders during extended solos, all while delivering frenetic guitar work that commands the crowd's attention.[88] Throughout his career, Young has sustained this intensity into his later years, exemplified by his performances on AC/DC's 2025 Power Up Tour. At age 70, he maintained non-stop energy for over two-hour sets, showcasing stamina in explosive solos like the one in "Riff Raff," where his high-volume improvisation and physicality—complete with duckwalks and expressive gestures—kept audiences riveted, proving his enduring command of the stage.[89]Equipment
Guitars
Angus Young's early guitars included a cheap second-hand acoustic model purchased by his mother, followed by a Höfner semi-acoustic handed down from his brother Malcolm.[90] Before fully committing to the Gibson SG in 1974 for AC/DC performances, he experimented with various inexpensive electric models, but the lightweight playability of the SG quickly became his preference.[91] Young's first primary instrument was a Gibson SG Standard from 1970 or 1971, acquired circa 1971 at age 16 from a music shop near his family home in Sydney, and used until 1978.[92] This model featured a solid mahogany body and neck, a rosewood fretboard, and original Gibson T-Top humbucking pickups, which were later replaced in some instances but retained for their snappy attack and sustain.[92] His current primary stage guitar is a 1967 Gibson SG Standard with custom Seymour Duncan humbuckers (7.7-7.8Ω).[93] He has used this and similar SG Standards—sourced from late 1960s to early 1970s production runs—on every AC/DC album, valuing their double-cutaway design for accessibility during energetic stage routines.[93] Custom modifications to Young's SGs include the addition of a lightning bolt motif to the fretboard inlays starting around 1979 on his "factory second" walnut-finish model, enhancing its visual distinctiveness while preserving the guitar's core tone.[94] Backup instruments, such as 1969 SG Standards with comparable mahogany construction and humbucker configurations, serve as reliable alternates during tours.[95] True to his philosophy of unadorned rock sound, Young avoids effects pedals entirely, achieving his signature raw, overdriven tone directly from the SG paired with high-gain amplification. In recognition of his iconic association with the SG, Gibson released the Angus Young Signature SG in 2000, styled after mid-1960s models with features like a slim neck profile, rosewood fretboard bearing lightning bolt inlays, and custom humbuckers including a '57 Classic in the neck and an Angus-designed bridge pickup.[96] Later iterations, such as the 2009 Custom Shop edition, incorporated aged cherry finishes and Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates pickups to replicate the worn aesthetic and bite of Young's vintage instruments, produced as limited runs for dedicated fans.[97]Amplifiers and accessories
Angus Young's primary amplification has long centered on vintage Marshall 1959 Super Lead Plexi heads, 100-watt models from the late 1960s featuring EL34 output tubes, which he began using in 1974 during AC/DC's early tours.[98][99] These amps are typically deployed in pairs, stacked for live performances to achieve his signature high-gain tone without effects pedals, relying instead on cranking the volume knob to induce natural tube distortion.[100][101] His setup includes four 4x12 Marshall cabinets loaded with Celestion G12-65 speakers, arranged in two stacks for stage volume and projection, with occasional modifications to the cabinets—such as reinforced frames—for enhanced portability during extensive world tours.[102] As backups since the late 1980s, Young incorporates custom Wizard amplifiers, 100-watt heads hand-built in the UK by AC/DC's longtime technician Rick St. Pierre to replicate the Marshall Plexi sound with added reliability for rigorous touring schedules.[103][93] These Wizard units, including the Vintage Modern model, were first integrated during the 1990 Razor's Edge tour and continue to serve as onstage spares.[104] Young's accessories emphasize simplicity and durability, with Ernie Ball Super Slinky nickel-wound strings in .009-.042 gauge providing the light tension essential for his rapid, bending-heavy style.[105][106] He favors Fender 351 Extra Heavy celluloid picks, often older models with indented logos, for their thickness and longevity during energetic performances.[107][108] For recent tours including the 2025 Power Up World Tour, he incorporates a Solo Dallas Schaffer Replica wireless system for additional preamp gain and a Kikusui PCR4000M power supply to operate his Marshall amps at 236V for optimal tone.[93] Over time, Young's rig has evolved for modern demands while preserving his core tone; in the 2000s, he experimented with solid-state Wizard variants for greater dependability amid heavy touring, but by the 2025 Power Up tour, he reverted to his classic tube Marshall Plexis as the main setup to maintain the raw, organic sound.[93][109]Discography
AC/DC contributions
Angus Young has been the lead guitarist and primary songwriter for AC/DC since the band's formation in 1973, contributing to all of their studio and live releases. The band's discography includes 17 studio albums, with Young co-writing most tracks alongside his brother Malcolm Young and various vocalists.[110] AC/DC's studio albums, released chronologically, are as follows:| Album | Year |
|---|---|
| High Voltage | 1976 |
| T.N.T. | 1976 |
| Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap | 1976 |
| Let There Be Rock | 1977 |
| Powerage | 1978 |
| Highway to Hell | 1979 |
| Back in Black | 1980 |
| For Those About to Rock | 1981 |
| Flick of the Switch | 1983 |
| Fly on the Wall | 1985 |
| Blow Up Your Video | 1988 |
| The Razors Edge | 1990 |
| Ballbreaker | 1995 |
| Stiff Upper Lip | 2000 |
| Black Ice | 2008 |
| Rock or Bust | 2014 |
| Power Up | 2020 |
Other projects
Prior to forming AC/DC, Angus Young contributed guitar parts to the Marcus Hook Roll Band, a studio project led by his older brother George Young and collaborator Harry Vanda. He played on their debut album S.P.O.T. (1971), a collection of rock tracks recorded in London.[113] Young also performed guitar on the band's follow-up album Tales of Old Grand-Daddy (1973), which featured a raw, blues-infused sound and included contributions from his brother Malcolm Young as well.[24][114] One notable one-off recording outside the band's core catalog was "Big Gun," a hard rock track co-written by Young and his brother Malcolm for the soundtrack to the film Last Action Hero in 1993. The song, featuring Young's signature riffing and lead guitar work, was recorded in Los Angeles and released as a single by Atco Records.[115] Young has maintained a strong loyalty to AC/DC throughout his career, with no major solo production projects or extensive studio collaborations beyond family-led ventures like the Marcus Hook Roll Band. While he co-produced several early AC/DC recordings alongside Malcolm and George Young, his focus has remained on the band's output rather than independent endeavors.[116] Young's additional contributions appear in AC/DC compilation box sets, where he provided guitar and songwriting for unreleased and rare tracks. The 1997 Bonfire set includes outtakes from the Bon Scott era, such as early versions of songs like "Dirty Eyes," showcasing Young's rhythm and lead work from studio sessions in the 1970s.[117] Similarly, the 2009 Backtracks collection features B-sides, live recordings, and previously unreleased material spanning decades, with Young's guitar central to tracks like alternate mixes and rarities from the band's catalog.Awards and honors
Music industry awards
Angus Young, as a core songwriter and performer for AC/DC, has been recognized through several music industry awards tied to the band's achievements. In 1995, AC/DC received the APRA Award for Most Performed Australian Work Overseas for "Big Gun," co-written by Young and his brother Malcolm.[118] Similarly, in 2010, the band won the same category for "Rock 'n' Roll Train," another Young co-write.[119] The following year, AC/DC earned the award again for "Highway to Hell," co-written by Young, Malcolm Young, and Bon Scott.[120] At the 2010 APRA Awards, Angus and Malcolm Young were honored as Songwriters of the Year for their contributions to AC/DC's catalog.[121] More recently, in 2022, AC/DC won Most Performed Rock Work for "Shot in the Dark," co-written by the Young brothers.[122] Also in 2022, the band received three Grammy nominations: Best Rock Album for Power Up, Best Rock Performance for "Shot in the Dark," and Best Music Video for "Shot in the Dark."[123] AC/DC has also received accolades from other organizations, with Young's role central to the band's success. In 2006, Young personally accepted the Kerrang! Legend Award at the magazine's ceremony, celebrating AC/DC's enduring influence on rock music.[124] AC/DC has secured multiple ARIA Awards, including Highest Selling Album in 2009 for Black Ice and Best Rock Album in 2009 for the same album, reflecting the band's sales dominance in Australia. In 2024, AC/DC was honored with the O2 Silver Clef Award for their contributions to music.[125]| Award | Year | Category | Work | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| APRA | 1995 | Most Performed Australian Work Overseas | "Big Gun" | APRA Official |
| APRA | 2010 | Most Performed Australian Work Overseas | "Rock 'n' Roll Train" | APRA Official |
| APRA | 2010 | Songwriters of the Year | AC/DC (Angus & Malcolm Young) | ABC News |
| APRA | 2011 | Most Performed Australian Work Overseas | "Highway to Hell" | APRA Official |
| APRA | 2022 | Most Performed Rock Work | "Shot in the Dark" | APRA Official |
| Grammy | 2022 | Best Rock Album (nominated) | Power Up | GRAMMY.com |
| Grammy | 2022 | Best Rock Performance (nominated) | "Shot in the Dark" | GRAMMY.com |
| Grammy | 2022 | Best Music Video (nominated) | "Shot in the Dark" | GRAMMY.com |
| Kerrang! | 2006 | Legend Award | Angus Young / AC/DC | Kerrang! Blog |
| ARIA | 2009 | Highest Selling Album | Black Ice | ARIA Official |
| ARIA | 2009 | Best Rock Album | Black Ice | ARIA Official |
| O2 Silver Clef | 2024 | Silver Clef Award | AC/DC | Blabbermouth |