Brian Johnson, Dave Grohl and AC/DC Honor Malcolm Young

Story by Anne Erickson

Musicians are posting heartfelt tributes to late AC/DC guitarist Malcolm Young, who passed away over the weekend at age 64. It’s no surprise, as Young’s riffs and approach to rhythm guitar influenced an entire generation of guitarists, including some of the biggest rock musicians from the past few decades.

Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl took to Twitter to share his feelings on Young. Grohl recalled seeing the classic AC/DC concert film Let There Be Rock when he was just 11 years old. The film greatly impacted him.

“It was the first time I lost control to music,” Grohl wrote. “The first time I wanted to be in a band. I didn’t want to play my guitar anymore, I wanted to smash it. Thank you, Malcolm for the songs, and the feel, and the cool, and the years of losing control to your rock and roll.”

Longtime AC/DC singer Brian Johnson also released a statement regarding Young’s passing.

“We had such great times on the road,” Johnson said. “I was always aware that he was a genius on guitar, his riffs have become legend, as has he. I send out my love and sympathy to his wife Linda, his children Kara and Ross, and Angus, who will all be devastated…. as we all are.”

AC/DC’s official statement noted, “With enormous dedication and commitment he was the driving force behind the band. As a guitarist, songwriter and visionary he was a perfectionist and a unique man.”

The band continued in the message, “He always stuck to his guns and did and said exactly what he wanted. He took great pride in all that he endeavored. His loyalty to the fans was unsurpassed.”

Publication date: November 22, 2017
Anne Erickson
Posted by Anne Erickson | Music, Rock, Rock News