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  • AC/DC – Thunderstruck

    AC/DC – Thunderstruck

    AC/DC and “Thunderstruck”: A Legacy Etched in Hard Rock

    Since its inception in 1973, AC/DC, the Australian hard rock band, has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of rock music. With a unique blend of blues-influenced rock and pounding rhythm, the band has achieved both critical acclaim and commercial success. One of their most iconic hits, “Thunderstruck,” serves as a hallmark of their style and influence. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the origins of AC/DC’s name, the characteristics of Angus Young’s unforgettable stage image, and the story behind the thundering anthem “Thunderstruck.”

    Finding the Name: AC/DC

    The origin of AC/DC’s name is a testament to the band’s high-energy style. Malcolm and Angus Young, the founding members, were inspired by their sister Margaret’s sewing machine. They noticed the “AC/DC” electrical symbol on the machine, representing alternating current and direct current, and realized that it perfectly encapsulated the raw energy of their music. The symbol, also suggesting a dual nature or duality, resonated with the Young brothers’ musical philosophy. Contrary to rumors, the name has nothing to do with any sexual or devilish connotations.

    Angus Young: A Schoolboy with a Guitar

    Angus Young’s stage persona is one of the most recognizable in rock music. Dressed in a schoolboy uniform complete with a cap and tie, Young’s image is both mischievous and rebellious, capturing the essence of rock ‘n’ roll. The schoolboy uniform was an idea from his sister, and it reflected his youthful and energetic approach to music.

    Young’s performance on stage is nothing short of electrifying. His duckwalk across the stage, inspired by Chuck Berry, and his energetic guitar solos create a frenzied spectacle that fans around the world adore.

    “Thunderstruck”: A Lightning Bolt of Creativity

    Released in 1990 as the lead single from the album “The Razors Edge,” “Thunderstruck” quickly became one of AC/DC’s greatest hits. The song begins with a mesmerizing guitar riff that symbolizes a thunderclap, followed by Brian Johnson’s raspy vocals that carry the storm’s intensity.

    The song’s creation was sparked by a lightning storm that Angus Young experienced while traveling in a plane. Inspired by the power and ferocity of the storm, he started working on the iconic riff that would eventually turn into “Thunderstruck.” The song’s rhythm and melody capture the essence of a thunderstorm, unleashing a force that resonates with listeners.

    Conclusion: A Legacy Continues

    AC/DC’s contribution to hard rock is monumental. With their unique blend of blues-influenced rock and relentless energy, they have created a legacy that continues to inspire musicians worldwide. The band’s name, Angus Young’s schoolboy image, and the thunderous hit “Thunderstruck” all paint a vivid picture of what makes AC/DC a legendary band.

    In the ever-changing world of music, AC/DC remains a constant reminder of the primal and electrifying nature of rock ‘n’ roll. Whether you’re a new listener or a long-time fan, the powerful chords of “Thunderstruck” are sure to leave you, quite literally, thunderstruck.

    We appreciate your time and dedication in reading our article, to its conclusion. For more of the finest classic rock music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “Classic Rock Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.

  • AC/DC – Highway to Hell

    AC/DC – Highway to Hell

    “Highway to Hell”: A Milestone on the Hard Rock Route with AC/DC

    Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls, let’s buckle up and hit the loud pedal as we ride down the electrifying hard rock road to AC/DC’s classic album “Highway to Hell”.

    Origins of the Epic Journey

    At the heart of the hard rock revolution of the late 70s, the Australian powerhouse AC/DC was about to unleash one of their finest contributions to the genre. An album that would eventually go down in history as a cornerstone of hard rock music – “Highway to Hell”.

    Highway to Hell is the sixth studio album by AC/DC, released on July 27, 1979. It was the last album featuring lead singer Bon Scott, who died early the following year from acute alcohol poisoning. Produced by the legendary Robert John “Mutt” Lange, the album was the band’s first to break into the US top 100, eventually reaching number 17, and it propelled AC/DC into the top ranks of hard rock acts.

    The Infamous Title Track

    The title track “Highway to Hell” is a fierce hard rock anthem that resonates with the spirit of rock ‘n roll, even today. Often misunderstood, the title “Highway to Hell” wasn’t a nod to the devil, but rather a tongue-in-cheek reference to the grueling tour schedule that the band maintained. As guitarist Angus Young once stated, “It was the closest we ever came to a proper job.”

    Breaking down the Album

    This album was a sonic boom in the landscape of hard rock music. AC/DC dialed back the blues influence that permeated their earlier work and focused on straight-ahead, hard-hitting rock. There’s a balance and clarity to the production that hadn’t been heard on their previous albums.

    “Girls Got Rhythm” and “Touch Too Much” are classic AC/DC, with their catchy, fist-pumping choruses. “Night Prowler,” the final track, showcases the darker and moodier side of the band. It carries an eerie resonance, especially considering it was the last track on the final album with Bon Scott.

    Fun and Noteworthy Facts

    1. Highway to Hell’s cover features Angus Young with devil horns and a tail, which was an extension of his schoolboy-on-stage persona. However, in Spain, the cover was changed to a picture of the band amidst a huge live concert due to perceived “satanic” references.
    2. When the title track was released, it raised eyebrows in certain conservative corners. Rumors swirled that if played backward, the song contained satanic messages. This was categorically denied by the band. So no, there’s no secret satanic subplot to “Highway to Hell”. It’s just straight-up, full-throttle hard rock.
    3. Mutt Lange, who helped shape the band’s sound on this album, went on to produce massive hits for the likes of Def Leppard, Bryan Adams, and even Shania Twain. The touch of Mutt’s magic wand has certainly helped “Highway to Hell” become a timeless rock masterpiece.

    In the end, “Highway to Hell” stands as one of the greatest rock albums of all time, an enduring tribute to Bon Scott’s irrepressible spirit, and a testament to AC/DC’s raw power and musical prowess. It’s a testament to the band’s resilience that they continued to scale greater heights even after the untimely death of Bon Scott.

    “Highway to Hell” is not just an album; it’s an attitude, a lifestyle, a defiant yell in the face of conformity. It encapsulates the essence of rock and roll – living fast, playing hard, and having no regrets. After all these years, it still compels us to headbang, air guitar, and hit the highway with the volume cranked up to eleven. Long live AC/DC and their eternal highway to hell!

  • AC/DC – Highway to Hell

    AC/DC – Highway to Hell

    AC/DC - Highway to Hell

    “Highway to Hell”: A Milestone on the Hard Rock Route with AC/DC

    Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls, let’s buckle up and hit the loud pedal as we ride down the electrifying hard rock road to AC/DC’s classic album “Highway to Hell”.

    Origins of the Epic Journey

    At the heart of the hard rock revolution of the late 70s, the Australian powerhouse AC/DC was about to unleash one of their finest contributions to the genre. An album that would eventually go down in history as a cornerstone of hard rock music – “Highway to Hell”.

    Highway to Hell is the sixth studio album by AC/DC, released on July 27, 1979. It was the last album featuring lead singer Bon Scott, who died early the following year from acute alcohol poisoning. Produced by the legendary Robert John “Mutt” Lange, the album was the band’s first to break into the US top 100, eventually reaching number 17, and it propelled AC/DC into the top ranks of hard rock acts.

    The Infamous Title Track

    The title track “Highway to Hell” is a fierce hard rock anthem that resonates with the spirit of rock ‘n roll, even today. Often misunderstood, the title “Highway to Hell” wasn’t a nod to the devil, but rather a tongue-in-cheek reference to the grueling tour schedule that the band maintained. As guitarist Angus Young once stated, “It was the closest we ever came to a proper job.”

    Breaking down the Album

    This album was a sonic boom in the landscape of hard rock music. AC/DC dialed back the blues influence that permeated their earlier work and focused on straight-ahead, hard-hitting rock. There’s a balance and clarity to the production that hadn’t been heard on their previous albums.

    “Girls Got Rhythm” and “Touch Too Much” are classic AC/DC, with their catchy, fist-pumping choruses. “Night Prowler,” the final track, showcases the darker and moodier side of the band. It carries an eerie resonance, especially considering it was the last track on the final album with Bon Scott.

    Fun and Noteworthy Facts

    1. Highway to Hell’s cover features Angus Young with devil horns and a tail, which was an extension of his schoolboy-on-stage persona. However, in Spain, the cover was changed to a picture of the band amidst a huge live concert due to perceived “satanic” references.
    2. When the title track was released, it raised eyebrows in certain conservative corners. Rumors swirled that if played backward, the song contained satanic messages. This was categorically denied by the band. So no, there’s no secret satanic subplot to “Highway to Hell”. It’s just straight-up, full-throttle hard rock.
    3. Mutt Lange, who helped shape the band’s sound on this album, went on to produce massive hits for the likes of Def Leppard, Bryan Adams, and even Shania Twain. The touch of Mutt’s magic wand has certainly helped “Highway to Hell” become a timeless rock masterpiece.

    In the end, “Highway to Hell” stands as one of the greatest rock albums of all time, an enduring tribute to Bon Scott’s irrepressible spirit, and a testament to AC/DC’s raw power and musical prowess. It’s a testament to the band’s resilience that they continued to scale greater heights even after the untimely death of Bon Scott.

    “Highway to Hell” is not just an album; it’s an attitude, a lifestyle, a defiant yell in the face of conformity. It encapsulates the essence of rock and roll – living fast, playing hard, and having no regrets. After all these years, it still compels us to headbang, air guitar, and hit the highway with the volume cranked up to eleven. Long live AC/DC and their eternal highway to hell!

  • AC/DC – You Shook Me All Night Long

    AC/DC – You Shook Me All Night Long

    AC/DC

    Australian band founded in 1973 in Sydney by brothers Angus and Malcolm Young. The group is considered one of the pioneers of hard rock and heavy metal music, although the group members themselves have always classified their music as “rock & roll”.

    The inspiration for the name of the formation was the back of the sewing machine of the Young brothers’ sister – Margaret, on which the acronym “AC / DC” meaning “alternating current/direct current” (a device capable of working with both types of currents) was noticed. It was considered that it captures the raw energy of the band well and it was decided not to look for a new one.

    In 1973 they played their first concert in Sydney, and then signed a contract with Albert Production. At that time, Angus Young adopted a characteristic stage image – a school uniform that his musician sister offered him.

    Aged I May Be But A Guitar... - Classic Long Sleeve Tee
    Aged I May Be But A Guitar…

    The first singer – Dave Evans – approached the glam rockers too much in the image and in 1974 he was replaced by Ronald Belford “Bon” Scott. Only one single was recorded with Evans – “Can I Sit Next to You Girl”, which was later recorded again with the new singer. In the same period, AC / DC recorded their debut album “High Voltage” (released in 1975 only in Australia and New Zealand). At the same time, drummer Phil Rudd and bassist Mark Evans joined the band. Shortly afterward they released one of their most popular singles “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)” – the band’s later rock anthem.

    We appreciate your time and dedication in reading our article to its conclusion. For more of the finest classic rock music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “Classic Rock Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.

  • AC/DC – You Shook Me All Night Long

    AC/DC – You Shook Me All Night Long

    AC/DC - You Shook Me All Night Long

    AC/DC

    Australian band founded in 1973 in Sydney by brothers Angus and Malcolm Young. The group is considered one of the pioneers of hard rock and heavy metal music, although the group members themselves have always classified their music as “rock & roll”.

    The inspiration for the name of the formation was the back of the sewing machine of the Young brothers’ sister – Margaret, on which the acronym “AC / DC” meaning “alternating current/direct current” (a device capable of working with both types of currents) was noticed. It was considered that it captures the raw energy of the band well and it was decided not to look for a new one.

    Aged I May Be But A Guitar... - Classic Long Sleeve Tee
    Aged I May Be But A Guitar…

    In 1973 they played their first concert in Sydney, and then signed a contract with Albert Production. At that time, Angus Young adopted a characteristic stage image – a school uniform that his musician sister offered him.

    The first singer – Dave Evans – approached the glam rockers too much in the image and in 1974 he was replaced by Ronald Belford “Bon” Scott. Only one single was recorded with Evans – “Can I Sit Next to You Girl”, which was later recorded again with the new singer. In the same period, AC / DC recorded their debut album “High Voltage” (released in 1975 only in Australia and New Zealand). At the same time, drummer Phil Rudd and bassist Mark Evans joined the band. Shortly afterward they released one of their most popular singles “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)” – the band’s later rock anthem.

    We appreciate your time and dedication in reading our article to its conclusion. For more of the finest classic rock music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “Classic Rock Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.

  • AC/DC – Thunderstruck

    AC/DC – Thunderstruck

    AC/DC: Thunderstruck by Legends

    Rock ‘n roll has seen many icons, but few have held onto the very essence of the genre like the Australian hard-rock band, AC/DC. With their electrifying guitar riffs, unmistakable vocals, and legendary performances, AC/DC has carved a legacy that resonates across generations.

    The Current that Lit Up Rock

    The story behind the name AC/DC is as electrifying as their music. Malcolm and Angus Young, the brothers behind the band, were inspired by a term used on an electrical appliance. “AC/DC” refers to alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC), the two types of electric power transmission. Their sister, Margaret Young, noticed the term on their sewing machine and felt it symbolized the band’s raw energy and power-packed performances. The moniker also gave a nod to their electric performances and became a metaphor for their dual musicality – raw and energetic, yet precise and directed.

    The Schoolboy Who Rocked

    While the band’s music is central to their legacy, the unique stage persona of Angus Young has become synonymous with the AC/DC experience. Donning a schoolboy outfit – a private school uniform complete with a cap, jacket, and shorts – Angus Young’s image became one of the most recognizable in rock history.

    But why a schoolboy uniform? The story goes that Angus was in a rush to get to a gig directly from school, and without time to change, he went on stage in his school uniform. This unplanned move struck a chord with fans, becoming a symbol of youthful rebellion and raw energy. It soon became his signature look, symbolizing the unbridled passion and child-like enthusiasm that rock ‘n roll encapsulates.

    AC/DC – Struck by Thunder

    “Thunderstruck,” one of AC/DC’s greatest hits from their 1990 album ‘The Razors Edge,’ exemplifies the band’s sonic brilliance. The song kicks off with an unforgettable and blistering guitar riff by Angus, followed by Brian Johnson’s gritty vocals narrating an electrifying tale of being “struck” by a powerful force, akin to thunder.

    Many speculate that “Thunderstruck” was inspired by a real-life incident when the band’s plane was struck by lightning en route to a gig. Whether this tale holds true or not, the song captures the essence of AC/DC: a force of nature, uncontrollable and undeniably powerful.

    Conclusion

    To encapsulate the journey of AC/DC in a single blog post is challenging. Their music, persona, and stories form an integral part of rock history. From their electric name to the schoolboy that never grew up and the thunder that strikes the soul, AC/DC has immortalized itself as a testament to the enduring spirit of rock ‘n roll. Rock on!

    We appreciate your time and dedication in reading our article, to its conclusion. For more of the finest classic rock music, make sure to follow our Facebook page, “Classic Rock Guitar”. We share exceptional selections every day. Thank you once again for your continued support and readership.