37 Facts About Malcolm Young

Early Life and Background

Malcolm Young was born on January 6, 1953, in Glasgow, Scotland. He was the youngest of eight children in the Young family, which later moved to Sydney, Australia.

Co-founded AC/DC

Malcolm Young, along with his brother Angus Young, co-founded the iconic rock band AC/DC in The band went on to achieve global success and become one of the greatest rock bands of all time.

Rhythm Guitarist Extraordinaire

Malcolm Young was known for his phenomenal rhythm guitar skills. His distinctive playing style and powerful riffs became the backbone of AC/DC’s sound.

Songwriting Genius

Malcolm Young played a significant role in AC/DC’s songwriting process. His contributions can be heard in many of the band’s classic hits, including “Highway to Hell,” “Back in Black,” and “You Shook Me All Night Long.

The AC/DC Uniform

Malcolm Young was known for his signature schoolboy outfit, which became an iconic part of AC/DC’s image. He wore a school uniform on stage, complete with a shirt, shorts, and a tie.

Guitar Rig

Malcolm Young preferred a simple setup for his guitars. He primarily used Gretsch and Gibson guitars, along with Marshall amplifiers.

Work Ethic

Malcolm Young was known for his unparalleled work ethic. He dedicated countless hours to practicing his guitar and perfecting AC/DC’s songs.

Family Band

The Young family had a strong connection to music. Malcolm and Angus’ older brother George Young was a successful musician and a member of the band The Easybeats.

A Live Performance Powerhouse

AC/DC’s live performances were legendary, thanks in large part to Malcolm Young’s electrifying stage presence and energy.

Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his life, including health issues, Malcolm Young showed immense resilience and determination, continuing to perform and create music until his retirement.

The Young Brothers Connection

Malcolm and Angus Young shared a deep bond both personally and musically. Their collaboration and musical synergy were key to AC/DC’s success.

Chart-Topping Success

AC/DC achieved immense commercial success, with their albums consistently topping the charts worldwide. Malcolm played an integral part in creating the band’s chart-topping hits.

Influential Guitarist

Malcolm Young’s innovative guitar playing and songwriting have influenced countless musicians and bands across different genres.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee

In 2003, AC/DC was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a well-deserved recognition of their immense contributions to rock music, with Malcolm Young being a driving force behind the band’s success.

Collaborations with Angus Young

Malcolm Young collaborated closely with his brother Angus on stage, creating a powerful guitar duo that became a trademark of AC/DC’s sound.

Down-to-Earth Personality

Despite his fame and success, Malcolm Young remained humble and down-to-earth, earning him immense respect from fans and fellow musicians.

A True Rock Icon

Malcolm Young is regarded as one of the greatest rock icons of all time, leaving a lasting legacy with his incredible music and guitar skills.

Ritualistic Pre-Show Routine

Malcolm Young had a pre-show routine that involved playing guitar backstage to warm up and prepare for the high-energy performances AC/DC was known for.

The Backstage Creative Force

While Angus Young often took center stage, Malcolm Young played a pivotal role behind the scenes, ensuring that AC/DC’s music and live performances were always exceptional.

Unforgettable Stage Presence

Malcolm Young’s intense stage presence and infectious energy captivated audiences around the world, making every AC/DC concert an unforgettable experience.

The Powerhouse Rhythm Section

Malcolm Young’s guitar perfectly complemented the powerful drumming of his brother, Phil Rudd, creating a tight and dynamic rhythm section that defined AC/DC’s sound.

Impact on Hard Rock and Heavy Metal

AC/DC’s music, driven by Malcolm Young’s guitar, had a profound impact on the development of hard rock and heavy metal genres, inspiring countless bands and artists.

AC/DC’s Longevity

Malcolm Young’s unwavering dedication and commitment to AC/DC played a crucial role in the band’s longevity and enduring popularity over the decades.

Songwriting Credits

Malcolm Young received songwriting credits on nearly every song recorded by AC/DC, underscoring his significant contributions to the band’s extensive catalog.

The Drive to Keep Rocking

Even after his retirement from touring due to health issues, Malcolm Young continued to write and contribute to AC/DC’s music, remaining a creative force until his passing.

The Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap Album

Malcolm Young played a pivotal role in the creation of AC/DC’s iconic album, “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap,” which featured some of the band’s most beloved tracks.

Influence on Young Musicians

Malcolm Young’s guitar playing and songwriting continue to inspire young musicians, fueling their passion for rock music and guitar-driven melodies.

Dedication to Craftsmanship

Malcolm Young was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his relentless pursuit of perfection in his guitar playing and songwriting.

AC/DC’s Live Album “If You Want Blood”

Malcolm Young played a crucial role in the creation and success of AC/DC’s live album, “If You Want Blood, You’ve Got It,” capturing the raw energy of the band’s electrifying performances.

The Young Brothers’ Musical Legacy

The Young brothers, Malcolm and Angus, together with the rest of AC/DC, have left an indelible mark on the music industry, solidifying their place as rock music legends.

The Highway to Hell Album

Malcolm Young’s contributions were integral to the creation of AC/DC’s groundbreaking album, “Highway to Hell,” which catapulted the band to international stardom.

A Creative Force in the Studio

Malcolm Young actively contributed to the studio recording process, ensuring that AC/DC’s albums captured the raw power and energy of their live performances.

The Young Brothers’ Musical Chemistry

The musical chemistry between Malcolm and Angus Young was unparalleled, creating a seamless blend of guitar-driven rock that defined AC/DC’s signature sound.

The Black Ice Album

Malcolm Young played a vital role in the creation of AC/DC’s album, “Black Ice,” which went on to become a commercial and critical success.

Malcolm Young’s Legacy

Malcolm Young’s influence and impact on the world of rock music will continue to resonate for generations to come.

The Rock or Bust Tour

Malcolm Young’s final tour with AC/DC was the “Rock or Bust” tour, during which he demonstrated his unwavering dedication and love for performing.

A Legend Remembered

Malcolm Young’s contributions to music and his status as a rock legend will forever be cherished by fans and fellow musicians alike.

Conclusion

Malcolm Young was undoubtedly one of the most influential and talented musicians of his time. Throughout his career with AC/DC, he made significant contributions to rock music, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. His expert guitar playing, songwriting skills, and legendary stage presence cemented his status as a rock icon.

Despite facing personal struggles and health issues, Malcolm Young remained dedicated to his craft until the end. His enduring legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike. The impact he made on the world of music cannot be overstated, and his contributions will be remembered for years to come.

FAQs

1. What was Malcolm Young’s role in AC/DC?

Malcolm Young was a founding member and rhythm guitarist of the rock band AC/DC. He played a crucial role in the band’s success, co-writing many of their hit songs and providing the driving force behind their signature sound.

2. How did Malcolm Young influence rock music?

Malcolm Young’s inventive guitar playing and songwriting skills had a profound impact on rock music. His distinctive rhythm guitar style, characterized by powerful chords and tight rhythm patterns, became a defining element of AC/DC’s sound and influenced countless aspiring guitarists.

3. What was Malcolm Young’s contribution to songwriting?

Malcolm Young co-wrote numerous iconic songs for AC/DC, including “Highway to Hell,” “Back in Black,” and “You Shook Me All Night Long.” His ability to craft anthemic and memorable hooks played a significant role in the band’s success and cemented their place in rock history.

4. How did Malcolm Young’s health impact his career?

Malcolm Young’s career was affected by his declining health in later years. In 2014, it was announced that he had been diagnosed with dementia, which eventually led to his retirement from AC/DC. Despite this setback, his contributions to the band and the music industry as a whole remain immeasurable.

5. What is Malcolm Young’s legacy?

Malcolm Young’s legacy encompasses his status as a rock legend and his significant influence on rock music. His innovative guitar playing, exceptional songwriting skills, and unwavering dedication to his craft have left an enduring impact on the industry. His music will continue to inspire and resonate with fans for generations to come.