This list covers the key members of AC/DC, one of rock’s most iconic bands known for their electrifying sound and enduring legacy. Whether you’re a longtime fan, a new listener, or curious about the band’s lineup changes, this overview highlights the musicians who shaped AC/DC’s powerful current and past formations.
Brian Johnson – Lead Vocals
Brian Johnson joined AC/DC in 1980, replacing the late Bon Scott as the lead vocalist. His distinctive raspy voice debuted on the album Back in Black, which became one of the best-selling albums worldwide. Johnson’s energetic stage presence and vocal style have been central to AC/DC’s continued success and identity for over four decades.
Angus Young – Lead Guitar
As the band’s co-founder and lead guitarist, Angus Young is famous for his schoolboy outfit and electrifying guitar solos. His bluesy riffs and signature sound have defined AC/DC’s music since their formation in 1973. Angus remains the only original member still actively performing and recording with the band.
Cliff Williams – Bass Guitar
Cliff Williams joined AC/DC in 1977 and has been the steady backbone on bass for most of the band’s career. Known for his solid rhythm and supportive playing style, Williams contributed to the band’s tight sound on landmark albums such as Highway to Hell and For Those About to Rock We Salute You. He briefly retired in 2016 but rejoined for the 2020 album Power Up.
Phil Rudd – Drums
Phil Rudd was AC/DC’s drummer from 1975 to 1983 and then again from 1994 until 2015. His straightforward, hard-hitting drumming style helped define AC/DC’s driving rock sound. Despite some legal troubles causing interruptions, Rudd returned to record on the 2020 album Power Up, reaffirming his legacy with the band.
Stevie Young – Rhythm Guitar
Stevie Young, nephew of Angus and Malcolm Young, officially joined AC/DC as rhythm guitarist in 2014, replacing Malcolm Young due to health issues. Stevie had previously filled in during tours and shares a similar playing style and tone, helping preserve the band’s signature sound after Malcolm’s departure.
Malcolm Young – Rhythm Guitar (Deceased)
Malcolm Young was the co-founder, rhythm guitarist, and a primary songwriter for AC/DC until his retirement in 2014 due to dementia. His tight, powerful rhythm playing formed the backbone of the band’s music and songwriting partnership with Angus. Malcolm passed away in 2017 but remains a revered figure in rock history.
Bon Scott – Lead Vocals (Deceased)
Bon Scott was AC/DC’s original lead singer from 1974 until his untimely death in 1980. Known for his charismatic stage presence and raw vocal style, Scott’s era included classic albums like High Voltage and Highway to Hell. His influence still resonates in the band’s identity and fanbase worldwide.
Mark Evans – Bass Guitar
Mark Evans played bass for AC/DC between 1975 and 1977, contributing to early albums such as High Voltage and TNT. His melodic bass style helped the band’s early raw sound before he was replaced by Cliff Williams. Evans was part of the band’s formative years, helping establish their hard rock foundation.
Simon Wright – Drums
Simon Wright was AC/DC’s drummer from 1983 to 1989, following Phil Rudd’s initial departure. Wright played on albums like Fly on the Wall and Blow Up Your Video, bringing a slightly more technical drumming style. His tenure maintained the band’s momentum during a transitional phase in the 1980s.
Chris Slade – Drums
Chris Slade joined AC/DC in 1989 and played through the 1990s, including on the album The Razors Edge. Known for his powerful and precise drumming, Slade contributed to some of the band’s most commercially successful years. He briefly rejoined the band for the 2015 Rock or Bust World Tour when Phil Rudd was unavailable.
How to Choose
When exploring AC/DC’s current members or historical lineups, what truly matters is understanding the role each musician played in shaping the band’s sound and legacy. Fans typically prioritize original members like Angus and Malcolm Young for their songwriting and iconic riffs. Vocalists Brian Johnson and Bon Scott define distinct eras, while the rhythm section’s stability—especially the bass and drums—affects the band’s feel. For those interested in live performances, current touring lineups with Stevie Young and Phil Rudd or Chris Slade provide different energy and dynamics. Ultimately, choosing which members to focus on depends on whether you value the band’s classic era, their evolution, or their present-day incarnation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the original lead singer of AC/DC?
Bon Scott was the original lead singer from 1974 until his death in 1980.
Is Angus Young still in AC/DC?
Yes, Angus Young remains the only original member actively performing and recording with AC/DC.
Why did Malcolm Young leave the band?
Malcolm Young retired in 2014 due to health issues related to dementia and passed away in 2017.
Who replaced Bon Scott as lead vocalist?
Brian Johnson replaced Bon Scott in 1980 and has been the lead singer since, except for a brief hiatus.
Has AC/DC had many drummers?
Yes, notable drummers include Phil Rudd, Simon Wright, and Chris Slade, each contributing during different periods.
Is Cliff Williams still with the band?
Cliff Williams retired in 2016 but returned for the 2020 album Power Up and subsequent activities.
Final Thoughts
AC/DC’s lineup has evolved over nearly five decades, but the core of their sound remains rooted in the Young family’s guitar work and the powerful vocals of Bon Scott and Brian Johnson. Understanding the current and past members offers insight into how the band maintained its signature hard rock identity through changes and challenges. Whether you’re diving into their classic albums or following their recent tours, appreciating each member’s contribution enriches the experience of this legendary band’s enduring energy.
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