On November 19, 1980 one of the greatest bands of the 70s came to an abrupt and tragic end. The untimely death of Malcolm Young, rhythm guitarist for AC/DC, left fans and critics in shock, and even today, his absence is sorely felt.
Malcolm was born on January 6, 1953 in Glasgow, Scotland. In 1963 he and his family immigrated to Sydney, Australia, where he began to learn the guitar. A few years later he formed a band with his younger brother, Angus, and they played around the local pubs and clubs. With a new sound and style, they rose to enormous prominence in the 70s, and their first international success was in 1975 with the album High Voltage.
During the years of their success, Malcolm’s style of playing was often praised for its steady groove and relentless rhythm. He was considered one of the greatest rhythm guitarists ever, and he won multiple awards throughout his career. Interestingly, in contrast to Angus, he rarely performed solos and usually remained in the background of the band, performing more of a supportive role.
Although there is much speculation regarding Malcolm’s cause of death, it is agreed amongst experts that alcohol abuse and fatigue took a huge toll over the years. No official statement was made by the band, and they never made his death public until after they finished their tour in support of their album Black in Ice in 1991. Even after almost two decades, the incident is a cloud that hangs over the band and its fans.
The tragic loss of Malcolm was a severe blow to the band and to the music industry in general. His presence and iconic sound will be sorely missed by all who have been touched by his music. Although Angus is the backbone of the group, the absence of Malcolm is impossible to ignore. To this day, the band has not found a replacement, and his death serves as a reminder of how precious a life can be.
Effect on the Music
In the years following Malcolm’s death, AC/DC’s sound shifted drastically, with their sound becoming slightly more generic and less memorable. Although the group still had international success, many believe that without Malcolm’s distinctive playing style, something was missing from the band’s original appeal. This opened the door to newer, more contemporary sounds, such as grunge and electronica, but AC/DC’s more classic, hard rock style was never quite the same.
Malcolm’s absence also forced the group to downsize and re-arrange various songs, which meant that many of their live performances became slightly sluggish. As a guitarist, Malcolm was known for his quick, precise playing style, something which his replacement was never able to replicate. This was a major problem for the group, as the subtleties of Malcolm’s guitar playing were integral to the live shows.
Vulnerability of Artists
Malcolm’s passing also serves as a reminder of the fragility of life, and how easily it can be taken away from us. The death of an artist can affect so many in such a profound way, and it shows us how significant these figures are to their respective fields. Malcolm’s death was felt by millions and his legacy is still seen and remembered today. This has become a reminder that music, culture and the arts can all be lost in the blink of an eye.
At the same time, it also serves as a cautionary tale for musicians and artists to take care of their health and wellbeing amidst a demanding and often tumultuous industry. It is easy to become wrapped up in the fame and success that comes with being a renowned artist, that many forget just how vulnerable they can be, and just how quickly it can all be taken away from them.
Cementing the Legacy
Although Malcolm has been gone for almost forty years, his legacy lives on, and he is still remembered fondly by fans and experts alike. His contribution to the world of rock music is monumental, and the power of his playing style and its influence on generations of rock musicians, cannot be denied. Malcolm’s memory will still live on through the millions of fans around the world, and his music will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.
Effect on Malcolm’s Family
The loss of Malcolm took not only a huge toll on his family, but also on the group as a whole. Angus has famously stated in interviews that Malcolm’s death was the death of his brother as well as the death of his best friend. His siblings felt the loss just as keenly, and their grief was just as deep and profound. Malcolm’s absence has been felt by his family for decades, and their pain is one that can never be relieved.
Weeping Fans
No matter how much time has passed, fans of the band still carry the sadness in their hearts. Over forty years later, fans still take to social media to share their stories and memories of Malcolm and the band, and his impact is still seen and felt by fans around the world. Malcolm’s presence was and still is integral to the group, and his absence has left an emptiness that many fans have been struggling to fill.
Preserving the Memory
Malcolm’s name and memory are now being preserved and honored in various ways. A few years ago, the band released a documentary about the group’s history and legacy, aptly titled “Malcolm Young: The Life of Rock and Roll”, which pays tribute to Malcolm and captures his life and influence on the group. Also, Angus’ tribute to Malcolm at the induction ceremony into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame serves as a reminder of how much he was truly loved and respected.
It is clear that Malcolm’s legacy will continue to live on, and his impact will be seen and felt for decades to come. AC/DC’s music will always resonate with those who were touched by it, and Malcolm’s influence and iconic sound will never be forgotten. Whether it be through his own music or through the music of the artists he has inspired, Malcolm Young’s spirit will live on forever through their collective artistry.
