Malcolm Young
Malcolm Young was the co-founder and rhythm guitarist for AC/DC, known for his humble and passionate approach to music.
Guitarist
January 6, 1953
Capricorn
November 18, 2017
64
Glasgow, Scotland
Malcolm Young, who co-founded AC/DC and played rhythm guitar for the band, passed away on November 18, 2017, at the age of 64. As the driving force behind the band, he wrote many iconic riffs, including the legendary “Back in Black” riff, which he composed while on tour in 1979. Malcolm’s contributions to AC/DC’s success include hits like “Highway to Hell” and “Hells Bells,” and he also produced and wrote songs for artists such as Rose Tattoo and The Angels. Known as one of the greatest rhythm guitarists of all time, Malcolm’s achievements include co-founding AC/DC with his brother Angus Young, leading and shaping the band’s sound, and having a guitar model, the Gretsch G6131-MY Malcolm Young Signature Jet, dedicated to him. He followed in the footsteps of his older brother George Young, a guitarist, songwriter, and producer, and was known for his unmistakable rhythm guitar style, characterized by a scratchy and abrasive tone achieved through a selection of Marshalls and heavy gauge strings.