35 Facts About Bon Scott

Early Life and Background

Bon Scott's journey to rock legend status began in humble surroundings. His early life was marked by significant moves and challenges that shaped his rebellious spirit.

1. Bon Scott was born on July 9, 1946, in Forfar, Scotland. His family moved to Melbourne, Australia, when he was six years old.
2. Scott's Scottish accent made him a target for bullying in school. He later adopted the nickname "Bonny Scot," which eventually became "Bon Scott".
3. Bon Scott was a troublemaker in school, often getting into fights and causing disruptions. This behavior continued into his teenage years.
4. At the age of 15, Bon Scott dropped out of school and joined the Australian Army. However, he was discharged for being "unsuitable".
5. Before his music career took off, Scott worked various odd jobs, including a postman and bartender. These experiences shaped his rebellious and free-spirited nature.

Early Musical Ventures

Before joining AC/DC, Bon Scott honed his musical skills in various bands. These early experiences were crucial in developing his unique style and stage presence.

6. In 1964, Bon Scott formed his first band, The Spektors, where he played drums and occasionally sang. This early band experience laid the groundwork for his future musical endeavors.
7. In 1966, The Spektors merged with another band to form The Valentines, where Scott became the lead singer. The Valentines had a minor hit with "Every Day I Have to Cry" in 1967.
8. After The Valentines disbanded, Scott joined the progressive rock band Fraternity in 1970. Fraternity toured Europe and even played at the Reading Festival in 1971.

Joining AC/DC

Bon Scott's entry into AC/DC marked the beginning of a legendary chapter in rock history. His unique voice and charisma helped the band achieve international fame.

9. In 1974, Bon Scott joined AC/DC, a band that had recently been formed by two fellow emigrant Scotsmen, Malcolm and Angus Young. This marked the beginning of his most iconic and successful musical career.
10. Bon Scott was known for his raspy voice and wild stage presence. His unique style and charisma helped propel AC/DC to international fame.
11. Scott's lyrics often told stories of hard living and rebellion, resonating with fans worldwide. His rebellious spirit and raw talent made him a legend in the rock world.
12. Bon Scott's contributions to AC/DC's early success laid the groundwork for the band's continued popularity. Songs like "Highway to Hell" and "T.N.T." still resonate, proving his lasting appeal.

The Party Lifestyle

Bon Scott's life offstage was as wild as his performances. His hard-partying ways became legendary, but they also led to his untimely demise.

13. Bon Scott was known for his wild party lifestyle, which often involved heavy drinking and substance use. This lifestyle eventually led to his tragic death in 1980.
14. On February 19, 1980, Bon Scott died in London after a night of heavy partying. The official cause of death was acute alcohol poisoning, but some speculate that drugs might have played a role in his death.
15. The initial reports about Scott's death were confusing, leading to several conspiracy theories. Some believed he might have been murdered, while others thought he could have died from choking on his own vomit.
16. Bon Scott was known to use heroin, and many of the people he was with on his final night were reportedly linked to hard drugs. This combination of alcohol and heroin could have been lethal.

Legacy and Tributes

Despite his untimely death, Bon Scott's legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans. Numerous tributes and cultural landmarks honor his contributions to rock music.

17. Despite his untimely death, Bon Scott's legacy lives on. His unique voice and electrifying performances helped shape AC/DC's iconic sound. His rebellious spirit and raw talent continue to inspire musicians and fans alike.
18. To honor Bon Scott, a bronze statue was unveiled in Kirriemuir, Scotland, in 2016. Another statue was unveiled at Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour in Western Australia in 2008. These tributes reflect the enduring impact of his life and music.
19. Kirriemuir hosts an annual festival known as "Bonfest" as a tribute to Bon Scott and AC/DC. The festival was originally held in July but moved to May due to other local events.
20. Melbourne's central business district features a street named ACDC Lane, which was renamed in 2004 as a tribute to AC/DC. The street contains a rock 'n' roll nightclub called the Cherry Bar, reflecting the band's influence on Melbourne's music scene.
21. Bon Scott's grave site has become a cultural landmark. It is reportedly the most visited grave in Australia, and the National Trust of Australia declared it important enough to be included on the list of classified heritage places.
22. In 2006, a bronze plaque commemorating Bon Scott was stolen from his grave site. The plaque was later replaced, but the theft highlights the enduring interest in his life and legacy.
23. Bon Scott is the subject of several books, including Clinton Walker's Highway to Hell and Jesse Fink's Bon: The Last Highway. These biographies provide detailed accounts of his life and career, including the controversies surrounding his death.
24. AC/DC released a box set entitled Bonfire as a tribute to Scott in 1997. The set includes four albums: a remastered version of Back in Black, a "rarities" album, and two live albums.
25. Bon Scott was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2005, recognizing his significant contributions to Australian music.

Musical Influence and Recognition

Bon Scott's influence on rock music is undeniable. His unique voice and rebellious spirit continue to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.

26. Before joining AC/DC, Scott played in several bands, honing his craft and developing his unique style. His early musical experiences laid the foundation for his success with AC/DC.
27. Bon Scott was known for his electrifying live performances. He toured extensively with various bands, including Fraternity and AC/DC, and was a key factor in AC/DC's rise to international fame.
28. Bon Scott was described as a kind-hearted and charming individual. He was known for his acceptance of people from all walks of life and his ability to connect with fans through his music and personality.
29. Bon Scott's influence on rock music is undeniable. His unique voice, rebellious spirit, and raw talent have inspired generations of musicians and fans. His legacy continues to shape the genre, ensuring that his music remains timeless.

Posthumous Recognition

Even after his death, Bon Scott's contributions to music continue to be celebrated. Various projects and releases keep his memory alive.

30. A feature film called The Kid from Harvest Road is currently in production, focusing on Scott's time in Western Australia before he became a musician. This film aims to provide a comprehensive look at his early life and career.
31. Bon Scott's discography includes several studio and live albums with AC/DC. Some notable albums include High Voltage, Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap, and Back in Black. These albums showcase his significant contributions to the band's success.
32. Bon Scott received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to music. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2005 and has been recognized for his impact on Australian music.
33. Several cultural landmarks commemorate Bon Scott's life and legacy. These include the bronze statue in Kirriemuir, Scotland, and the statue at Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour in Western Australia. These tributes reflect the enduring impact of his music and personality.
34. Bon Scott's legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans. His unique voice, rebellious spirit, and raw talent have cemented his place in rock history. Despite his untimely death, his music remains a testament to the timeless power of rock 'n' roll.
35. AC/DC released Back in Black in 1980, which was a tribute to Scott's legacy. The album became one of the best-selling albums of all time, cementing Scott's place in rock history.

Bon Scott's Enduring Legacy

Bon Scott's life was a whirlwind of music, rebellion, and unforgettable performances. Born in Scotland, he moved to Australia and quickly made a name for himself. From his early days in The Spektors and The Valentines to his iconic role in AC/DC, Scott's raspy voice and wild stage presence left an indelible mark on rock music. His lyrics, often reflecting a hard-living lifestyle, resonated with fans worldwide. Despite his untimely death in 1980, Scott's influence continues to inspire musicians and fans alike. Statues, festivals, and even street names honor his legacy. Albums like Back in Black serve as a testament to his lasting impact. Bon Scott's rebellious spirit and raw talent ensure that his music remains timeless, proving that legends never truly die. His story is a reminder of the power of rock 'n' roll and its ability to transcend generations.