AC/DC: History, Albums, Songs and Official Merchandise

AC/DC – Band History, Albums, Songs and Legacy

AC/DC are one of the greatest and most enduring rock bands in history. Formed in Sydney, Australia in 1973 by brothers Malcolm and Angus Young, the band have sold more than 200 million albums worldwide, making them one of the best-selling music acts of all time. Their thunderous, blues-driven hard rock — built on Angus Young's iconic riffs and schoolboy uniform stage persona — has remained remarkably consistent and beloved across more than five decades.

Band Members

  • Angus Young – lead guitar
  • Brian Johnson – vocals (1980–present)
  • Stevie Young – rhythm guitar
  • Cliff Williams – bass (1977–2016, returned 2020)
  • Matt Laug – drums

The band was founded by brothers Malcolm Young (rhythm guitar) and Angus Young, with Bon Scott serving as vocalist from 1974 until his death in 1980.

High Voltage (1975) & T.N.T. (1975)

AC/DC's Australian debut albums established the raw, high-energy blueprint that would define their career. High Voltage introduced the world to Angus Young's electrifying guitar work and the band's unstoppable live energy.

Let There Be Rock (1977)

Let There Be Rock is widely regarded as one of the defining hard rock albums of the 1970s, featuring the ferocious title track and cementing AC/DC's reputation as one of the most powerful live acts in the world.

Powerage (1978)

Powerage is a fan favourite and critical favourite alike, featuring Sin City and Rock 'n' Roll Damnation — the band's first UK Top 30 single.

Highway to Hell (1979)

Highway to Hell was AC/DC's international breakthrough, produced by Mutt Lange and featuring one of the most recognisable riffs in rock history. The title track remains one of the most played rock songs of all time. Tragically, it was the last album recorded with vocalist Bon Scott, who died in February 1980.

Back in Black (1980)

Back in Black is the second best-selling album in history, with more than 50 million copies sold worldwide. Recorded as a tribute to Bon Scott with new vocalist Brian Johnson, it features some of the most iconic rock songs ever written:

For Those About to Rock (1981)

For Those About to Rock became AC/DC's first No.1 album in the US, featuring the anthemic title track with its famous cannon salute — a staple of their live shows ever since.

The Razors Edge (1990)

The Razors Edge marked a commercial comeback for the band, featuring Thunderstruck — one of their most beloved and recognisable songs — and Moneytalks.

Black Ice (2008)

Black Ice debuted at No.1 in 29 countries and became one of the best-selling albums of the 2000s, proving AC/DC's enduring global appeal more than three decades into their career.

PWR/UP (2020)

PWR/UP was AC/DC's triumphant return, debuting at No.1 in 21 countries including the UK. Recorded as a tribute to Malcolm Young, who passed away in 2017, it featured Shot in the Dark and Realize.

Rock or Bust (2014) & Legacy

AC/DC were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003. They have won multiple Grammy Awards and remain one of the highest-grossing live acts in the world. Their PWR/UP World Tour in 2024 was one of the biggest tours of the year.

Shop Official AC/DC Merchandise

Celebrate AC/DC's extraordinary legacy with our officially licensed merchandise:

Browse the full AC/DC collection →

AC/DC on the Wonderhaul Blog

Explore More Rock Legends

  • Led Zeppelin – The hard rock pioneers who share AC/DC's blues-driven intensity
  • Metallica – Thrash metal titans who emerged in the same era as AC/DC's commercial peak
  • Queen – Theatrical rock legends who dominated the same era

Explore our complete Rock Music History Knowledge Hub

Frequently Asked Questions

When did AC/DC form?

AC/DC formed in Sydney, Australia in 1973.

What is AC/DC's best-selling album?

Back in Black (1980) is AC/DC's best-selling record and the second best-selling album in history, with more than 50 million copies sold worldwide.

Who are AC/DC's vocalists?

Bon Scott was AC/DC's vocalist from 1974 until his death in February 1980. Brian Johnson has been the band's vocalist since 1980.

What is AC/DC's most recent album?

PWR/UP (2020) is AC/DC's most recent studio album, debuting at No.1 in 21 countries including the UK.