Malcolm Young, founding member of AC/DC, died today at the age of 64 after battling dementia for the last several years. AC/DC has been of my favorite bands for a long time, and although his brother Angus was the face of the band, Malcolm and his rhythm guitar was the driving force behind the band. Malcolm is probably the greatest rhythm guitarist ever. Dementia forced him to retire in 2014, and was replaced by his nephew Stevie on the album Rock or Bust. But on every other album, he was there, laying down that bluesy beat that was so integral to their music. Along with several bass players, most notably Cliff Williams, and several drummers, including Phil Rudd, AC/DC provided one of the best rhythm sections in all of music.
After Bon Scott died in 1980, it wasn't certain the band would continue. But Brian Johnson came in, the band put out one of the greatest albums in rock history in Back in Black, and never looked back. For my money, along with The Rolling Stones, AC/DC is probably the greatest straight ahead rock and roll band on the face of the earth.
Malcolm is now gone. Brian Johnson was replaced by Axl Rose due to hearing problems. Cliff Williams recently retired from the band. I think it's safe to say that AC/DC as we have known it is no more. Angus will continue but it will never be the same. RIP Malcolm.
