Angus Young, the iconic guitarist of AC/DC, rightfully earns his spot among the rock legends. Drawing inspiration from early rock movers like Chuck Berry and Little Richard, and blending it with the sheer force of icons like Jimmy Page and Jimi Hendrix, Young crafted a unique sound. His distinctive style resonates with die-hard guitar aficionados and the broader audience alike.
Young’s mastery of the guitar is evident in AC/DC’s hits like ‘Thunderstruck’, ‘T.N.T.’, and ‘Back in Black’, giving the band the distinctive edge that cemented them as a pivotal force in rock history. Their blend of blues, rock, and metal isn’t just music; it’s a commanding presence, packing stadiums globally for years.
Beyond his musical prowess, Young stands out for his individuality, much like his idol Chuck Berry. His signature duck walk and straightforward approach to music make him a fascinating character, often unfiltered in his opinions about his contemporaries during interviews.
One memorable moment was in 2019 when Young, in a conversation with Classic Rock, criticized The Rolling Stones for straying from their rock roots into soul music. He boldly suggested they leave the soul to its originators and stick to what they excel at: rock ‘n’ roll.
Young’s frankness isn’t reserved for The Rolling Stones alone. In 1984, at the peak of AC/DC’s fame following the monumental success of ‘Highway to Hell’ and ‘Back in Black’, Young expressed his disdain for Deep Purple and similar bands.
In an interview with Guitar World, he dismissed Deep Purple as merely a second-rate Led Zeppelin, revealing his disappointment after attending one of their concerts.
Through these outspoken views and his groundbreaking music, Angus Young remains a compelling and influential figure in the rock world, unapologetically charting his own course and leaving an indelible mark on the genre.
