Immerse yourself in the high-voltage world of Angus Young, the co-founder and lead guitarist of the legendary hard rock band AC/DC. With his signature schoolboy uniform and electrifying stage presence, Young is not just a guitarist; he's an icon of rock and roll, a virtuoso whose riffs and solos have powered some of the most anthemic tracks in music history. Let's delve into the life and legacy of Angus Young and explore the energy and passion that fuel his enduring influence on the rock genre.
Who is Angus Young?
Angus McKinnon Young, born on March 31, 1955, in Glasgow, Scotland, is the quintessential rock and roll guitarist. Migrating to Australia with his family as a child, Young's journey with music began early. The Young family, deeply musical, saw Angus and his brother Malcolm develop a keen interest in rock and roll, influenced by bands like The Rolling Stones and The Beatles. Angus dropped out of school at the age of 15, a decision that propelled him towards a full-time music career. He and his brother Malcolm formed AC/DC in 1973, a band that would soon become synonymous with hard rock. With his relentless energy and raw power, Young quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with, his name becoming synonymous with the Gibson SG guitar and its searing sound.
Characteristics of His Style
Angus Young's playing style is a high-octane blend of blues-based riffs and rock and roll swagger. Known for his aggressive tone and dynamic stage antics, including his own version of Chuck Berry's duckwalk, Young's approach to the guitar is both primal and precise. His use of pentatonic scales, string bends, and open chords creates a sound that is both direct and melodic, driving the hard-hitting rock sound of AC/DC. Young's style is heavily influenced by blues legends like Muddy Waters and Freddie King, but he infuses his playing with a raw energy that sets him apart. His solos often feature rapid-fire picking and expressive bends, creating a sound that is instantly recognizable.
Musical Involvement
Angus Young's musical odyssey took off with the formation of AC/DC in 1973. Alongside his brother Malcolm on rhythm guitar, the band's lineup solidified with the addition of charismatic frontman Bon Scott, drummer Phil Rudd, and bassist Cliff Williams. AC/DC's blues-based records and electrifying live performances quickly made them favorites in Australia and beyond. The band's early albums, "High Voltage" and "T.N.T.," showcased their raw sound and energetic performances. However, it was their 1979 release, "Highway to Hell," that catapulted them to international stardom, with its title track becoming an anthem of rock rebellion.
The tragic death of Bon Scott in 1980 could have spelled the end for AC/DC, but the band persevered, recruiting Brian Johnson as their new lead singer. The subsequent album, "Back in Black," dedicated to Scott's memory, became one of the best-selling albums of all time, featuring some of Young's most iconic guitar work. The band's relentless touring and prolific recording schedule, with albums like "For Those About to Rock We Salute You" and "The Razors Edge," cemented their place in rock history, propelled by Young's incendiary guitar work.
Most Famous Guitar Parts
1. "Back in Black":
The title track from AC/DC's best-selling album, "Back in Black" features one of Young's most iconic riffs—a series of powerful chords that has become a rock anthem. The song is a tribute to the band's former lead singer, Bon Scott, and showcases Young's ability to channel emotion into raw, electrifying guitar work. Check out the lightning fast open string blues lick in between the power chords. The rhythm can be very tricky to master.
2. "Thunderstruck":
"Thunderstruck" starts with a rapid-fire guitar riff that is both technically impressive and instantly recognizable. Young's mastery of the fretboard is on full display, as he delivers a high-energy performance that has become a staple of AC/DC's live shows. The opening riff can be played with the pull-off technique using only the left hand. However, Angus Young originally played it by picking all the notes as a technical challenge. It has become one of the most recognizable in rock music.
Here's Alex playing the song!
3. "Highway to Hell":
As the opening track of the album of the same name, "Highway to Hell" features a driving riff that captures the spirit of rock and roll rebellion. Young's guitar sets the tone for the entire album, which would become one of AC/DC's most successful releases. The riff's simplicity and power exemplify Young's ability to create memorable and impactful music with minimalistic yet powerful playing. This is an example of “Open Power Chords” which AC/DC used extensively in their most famous guitar riffs.
Lessons from Young
Angus Young's impact on music extends beyond his fiery solos and memorable riffs; it's a testament to the power of staying true to one's roots and the magic of rock and roll. His dedication to his craft and his ability to electrify audiences around the world remind us that at the heart of great music is passion and authenticity. Young's disciplined practice regimen, often involving hours of rehearsal before and after concerts, underscores his commitment to his art.
Angus Young has also been a fierce advocate for maintaining the purity of rock and roll, resisting trends and fads that have come and gone over the decades. His focus has always been on delivering powerful, straightforward rock music that connects with fans on a visceral level. This steadfastness has garnered AC/DC a loyal following and critical acclaim.
Enduring Influence
As we celebrate the life and achievements of Angus Young, we recognize that his influence resonates with guitarists and music fans alike. His legacy is not just in the notes he's played but in the inspiration he provides for those who follow in his footsteps. Young's influence can be seen in countless guitarists who have cited him as an inspiration, from Slash of Guns N' Roses to Dave Grohl of Foo Fighters. His riffs and solos have become a rite of passage for aspiring guitarists, and his stage presence a model for performers everywhere.
In addition to his musical influence, Young's image—complete with his schoolboy outfit—has become iconic, symbolizing the rebellious spirit of rock and roll. This persona, combined with his virtuosic playing, ensures that Angus Young remains a central figure in the pantheon of rock gods.
So, let's keep the spirit of rock alive and continue to draw from the well of creativity that Angus Young has so generously provided. His contributions to music remind us of the power of rock and roll to inspire, energize, and unite people across generations.
-Ryan
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