For longtime fans and newcomers alike, knowing which AC DC band members are still alive offers a glimpse into the legacy and ongoing story of one of rock’s most iconic groups. This list covers the surviving members of AC DC, highlighting their contributions and current status. Whether you’re curious about the classic lineup or recent additions, here’s an up-to-date overview of who’s still with us from the legendary band.
Brian Johnson – Lead Vocals
Brian Johnson became AC DC’s lead singer in 1980 after the tragic death of Bon Scott. His powerful, raspy voice defined the band’s sound on albums like Back in Black and The Razors Edge. Johnson is still alive and has remained connected to the band, despite temporarily stepping back from touring in 2016 due to hearing issues. He returned for the 2020 album Power Up, reaffirming his role as the voice of AC DC.
Angus Young – Lead Guitar
Angus Young, the band’s co-founder and lead guitarist, is the face of AC DC with his signature schoolboy uniform and electrifying riffs. Known for his energetic performances and iconic solos, Angus remains very much alive and active in the band’s current lineup. His dedication drives the band’s enduring popularity, and he played a central role in the 2020 comeback album.
Cliff Williams – Bass Guitar
Cliff Williams joined AC DC in 1977 and provided the steady bass foundation for many of their classic albums. After announcing his retirement in 2016, Williams surprised fans by returning for the Power Up album and the associated tour plans. He is alive and remains one of the band’s key members, known for his solid playing and understated presence on stage.
Phil Rudd – Drums
Phil Rudd was the drummer for AC DC during some of their most successful years, contributing to albums like Highway to Hell and Back in Black. Despite legal troubles and lineup changes over the years, Rudd is alive and rejoined the band for the 2020 album. His distinctive drumming style is fundamental to AC DC’s powerful sound.
Stevie Young – Rhythm Guitar
Stevie Young, nephew of Angus and Malcolm Young, stepped in as rhythm guitarist in 2014, replacing Malcolm Young due to his health issues. He’s alive and active in the band, contributing to the modern era of AC DC including the Power Up album. Stevie’s playing style closely mirrors that of his uncle, helping maintain the classic AC DC sound.
Malcolm Young (Deceased but Legacy Alive)
Though Malcolm Young passed away in 2017, his influence as co-founder and rhythm guitarist remains central to AC DC’s identity. While not alive, understanding his legacy is crucial when discussing current members who continue to honor his style and songwriting. Stevie Young carries forward Malcolm’s role, preserving the band’s signature rhythm sound.
Bon Scott (Deceased but Iconic)
Bon Scott, the band’s original lead singer until his death in 1980, is not alive but his legacy looms large over AC DC’s history. His raw vocal style and charismatic stage presence helped build the band’s early reputation. While he is not a current member, his influence still resonates among fans and band members alike.
Mark Evans – Former Bassist (Alive)
Mark Evans was AC DC’s bassist from 1975 to 1977, playing on albums like High Voltage and TNT. He is alive and has pursued solo projects and tribute work celebrating AC DC’s early sound. Though not part of the current lineup, Evans remains a notable surviving member from the band’s formative years.
Simon Wright – Former Drummer (Alive)
Simon Wright played drums for AC DC from 1983 to 1989, contributing to albums like Fly on the Wall and Blow Up Your Video. He is alive and continues to perform with other bands, maintaining a connection to the AC DC legacy. Wright’s tenure helped bridge the band’s classic and modern eras.
Chris Slade – Former Drummer (Alive)
Chris Slade was drummer for AC DC during the early 1990s, including the The Razor’s Edge album and tour. He returned briefly for the 2015 Rock or Bust World Tour. Slade is alive and remains active in music, known for his powerful drumming style that kept the band’s rhythm section tight during his time.
How to Choose
Choosing which AC DC band members to focus on depends on what aspect of the band’s history or sound interests you most. For fans of the classic era, Brian Johnson, Angus Young, and Cliff Williams represent the core surviving members who shaped the band’s biggest hits. If you’re interested in the band’s current status and future, look to members like Stevie Young and Phil Rudd who are part of the latest lineup. Additionally, former members like Mark Evans, Simon Wright, and Chris Slade offer insight into different phases of AC DC’s evolving sound. Ultimately, what matters is the impact these musicians had on the band’s music and legacy rather than simply their tenure or fame.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who are the original AC DC members still alive?
Only Angus Young is a founding member still alive and active in the band. Malcolm Young and other early members have passed away.
Q: Is Brian Johnson still the lead singer of AC DC?
Yes, Brian Johnson returned to record the 2020 album Power Up and is considered the current lead vocalist.
Q: Why did Phil Rudd leave and then return to AC DC?
Phil Rudd left due to legal issues and personal problems but rejoined the band for the 2020 album after resolving those matters.
Q: Are any former AC DC members touring with the band?
Former members like Chris Slade and Simon Wright are no longer touring with AC DC, but current touring members include Angus Young, Brian Johnson, Cliff Williams, Phil Rudd, and Stevie Young.
Q: Did Malcolm Young’s death end his influence on the band?
No, Malcolm Young’s songwriting and style continue to influence AC DC’s music, especially through Stevie Young who carries on his rhythm guitar legacy.
Q: How many original members are still alive?
Of the original lineup formed in 1973, only Angus Young remains alive today.
Final Thoughts
AC DC’s story is marked by both tragedy and triumph, with several original members passing away but key figures still alive and contributing to the band’s ongoing legacy. Angus Young’s leadership and Brian Johnson’s vocal power continue to define AC DC’s sound, while newer members like Stevie Young keep the band’s spirit alive. Understanding which members are still alive helps fans appreciate how AC DC’s music has evolved and endured across decades. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the band for the first time, the surviving members represent the heart of rock ’n’ roll resilience and passion.
Related
- Has There Ever Been a 0-0 NFL Game? Exploring Scoreless Matches
- Has There Ever Been a Scoreless NFL Game?
- Fix Touchpad Issues Not Working: 10 Effective Solutions