AC/DC are one of the most iconic and influential rock bands of all time. Their songs are full of catchy riffs, powerful vocals, and tongue-in-cheek lyrics. They have sold over 200 million albums worldwide and have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. But which are their best songs? Here is a list of the top 10 AC/DC songs ever, ranked according to various sources and opinions.
Top 10 AC/DC Songs of All Time
10. T.N.T. (1975)
This explosive song from their second album of the same name is a classic example of AC/DC’s hard rock style. The chorus features the band chanting “Oi! Oi! Oi!” along with singer Bon Scott’s signature snarl. The song is also known for its iconic guitar riff, which was inspired by the sound of a bomb dropping.
9. Whole Lotta Rosie (1977)
This song from their fourth album Let There Be Rock is a tribute to a voluptuous woman that Bon Scott had an encounter with in Tasmania. The song is full of sexual innuendos and humor, as well as a blistering guitar solo by Angus Young. The song has become a staple of AC/DC’s live shows, often featuring a giant inflatable Rosie on stage.
8. Hells Bells (1980)
This song from their seventh album Back in Black was the first one to feature Brian Johnson as the new lead singer, after Bon Scott’s death in 1980. The song begins with the ominous sound of church bells, followed by a heavy riff and Johnson’s powerful vocals. The song is about facing death and the devil, and has become one of AC/DC’s most popular and recognizable songs.
7. Shoot to Thrill (1980)
Another song from Back in Black, this one is a fast-paced rocker that showcases AC/DC’s energy and attitude. The song is about living life on the edge, with lyrics like “I’m like evil, I get under your skin / Just like a bomb that’s ready to blow”. The song was also featured on the soundtrack of Iron Man 2, giving it a new audience and exposure.
6. Thunderstruck (1990)
This song from their twelfth album The Razors Edge is one of AC/DC’s most modern and innovative songs. The song features a distinctive guitar riff by Angus Young, which he plays by rapidly tapping the strings with one hand. The song is about being struck by lightning, both literally and figuratively, and has become a sports anthem for many teams and events.
5. Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (1976)
This song from their third album of the same name is a humorous and dark song about a hitman who offers his services for cheap prices. The song has a catchy chorus and a simple but effective riff, as well as some clever wordplay by Bon Scott. The song was banned in some countries for its violent and suggestive content, but that only added to its appeal and popularity.
4. You Shook Me All Night Long (1980)
This song from Back in Black is one of AC/DC’s most successful and well-known songs. It is a love song with a twist, as it describes a wild night of passion with a woman who “was a fast machine / She kept her motor clean”. The song has a catchy melody and chorus, as well as a memorable guitar solo by Angus Young. The song has been covered by many artists and has been ranked among the greatest rock songs of all time.
3. Highway to Hell (1979)
This song from their sixth album of the same name is one of AC/DC’s signature songs. It is an anthem for living life on your own terms, with lyrics like “No stop signs, speed limit / Nobody’s gonna slow me down”. The song has a driving riff and a catchy chorus, as well as an iconic guitar solo by Angus Young. The song was also Bon Scott’s last single before his death, making it even more poignant and legendary.
2. Back in Black (1980)
This song from their seventh album of the same name is AC/DC’s tribute to Bon Scott, who died in 1980. The song features Brian Johnson’s debut as the new lead singer, who delivers a powerful performance that honors Scott’s legacy. The song has a simple but effective riff, a pounding rhythm section, and a catchy chorus that declares “I’m back in black”. The song has become one of AC/DC’s most popular and influential songs, as well as one of the best-selling singles of all time.
1. Let There Be Rock (1977)
This song from their fourth album of the same name is AC/DC’s ultimate rock and roll statement. The song tells the story of the creation of rock music, with Bon Scott as the narrator and God as the protagonist. The song features a relentless riff, a thunderous drum beat, and a blistering guitar solo by Angus Young that lasts for over two minutes. The song is a celebration of rock music and its power, and has become AC/DC’s most epic and iconic song.
Conclusion
AC/DC are one of the greatest rock bands of all time, and their songs are timeless and universal. They have a distinctive sound and style that has influenced many generations of musicians and fans. Their songs are full of energy, humor, and attitude, and they never fail to rock the house. These are the top 10 AC/DC songs ever, but there are many more that deserve recognition and appreciation. AC/DC are not just a band, they are a phenomenon.
Most Asked Questions and Answers
Q: Who are the current members of AC/DC?
A: The current members of AC/DC are Angus Young (lead guitar), Brian Johnson (lead vocals), Cliff Williams (bass), Phil Rudd (drums), and Stevie Young (rhythm guitar).
Q: When did AC/DC form and where are they from?
A: AC/DC formed in 1973 in Sydney, Australia. They were founded by brothers Angus and Malcolm Young, who were born in Scotland.
Q: What does AC/DC stand for?
A: AC/DC stands for alternating current/direct current, which is a type of electric current. The name was suggested by their sister Margaret, who saw it on a sewing machine.
Q: How many albums have AC/DC released and which is their best-selling one?
A: AC/DC have released 17 studio albums, four live albums, two soundtrack albums, and several compilations. Their best-selling album is Back in Black, which has sold over 50 million copies worldwide.
Q: What is the meaning of the song “Highway to Hell”?
A: The song “Highway to Hell” is about the hardships and dangers of touring as a rock band. It is also a reference to the Canning Highway in Perth, Australia, where Bon Scott used to live and where many fatal accidents occurred.
Q: Why does Angus Young wear a schoolboy uniform on stage?
A: Angus Young wears a schoolboy uniform on stage as a gimmick and a tribute to his school days. He started wearing it when he was 16 years old and still in school, and he decided to keep it as his trademark.
Q: How did Bon Scott die and how did Brian Johnson join the band?
A: Bon Scott died in 1980 from acute alcohol poisoning after a night of heavy drinking. He was found in a car outside a friend’s house in London. After his death, the band auditioned several singers and chose Brian Johnson, who impressed them with his voice and personality.
Q: What is the meaning of the song “Back in Black”?
A: The song “Back in Black” is a tribute to Bon Scott and a statement of resilience by the band. It is also a reference to the black clothing that the band wore as a sign of mourning for Scott.
Q: What is the meaning of the song “Thunderstruck”?
A: The song “Thunderstruck” is about being struck by lightning, both literally and figuratively. It is also inspired by an incident when Angus Young was nearly electrocuted on stage during a concert in 1988.
Q: What is the meaning of the song “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap”?
A: The song “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” is a humorous and dark song about a hitman who offers his services for cheap prices. It is also based on a cartoon character named Beany that Bon Scott used to watch as a child.