AC/DC is an Australian rock band that formed in Sydney in 1973. The band is known for their high-energy performances, raw sound, and catchy guitar riffs. AC/DC has sold over 200 million albums worldwide, making them one of the best-selling bands of all time. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003.
The band’s original members were brothers Malcolm and Angus Young, who played rhythm and lead guitar respectively, and vocalist Bon Scott. AC/DC’s early sound was heavily influenced by blues rock, but they eventually developed their own unique sound that blended hard rock, heavy metal, and punk rock.
After Scott’s death in 1980, the band continued with new vocalist Brian Johnson and released the iconic album “Back in Black,” which has since sold over 50 million copies worldwide. Other notable albums include “Highway to Hell,” “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap,” and “For Those About to Rock We Salute You.”
AC/DC’s live shows are known for their explosive energy and massive stage setups, often featuring cannons, pyrotechnics, and other special effects. The band’s music has influenced countless other rock acts and has remained popular for decades. Despite personnel changes and the passing of several original members, AC/DC continues to tour and record new music, cementing their place as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
1. “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap”
This AC/DC classic, known as “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap,” is a hard rock anthem that features a driving beat and killer guitar riffs. The song’s lyrics focus on a shady character who can get things done using whatever means necessary. It was released in 1976 and quickly became one of the band’s most popular tracks, showcasing their gritty style and electrifying live performances.
Continuing with the list of the 10 best AC/DC songs of all time, we come to this iconic hit. Its high-energy instrumentation and memorable chorus make it a fan favorite, while its tongue-in-cheek lyrics add a touch of humor to the mix. Few bands have ever managed to capture such raw power and intensity quite like AC/DC, and “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” is a perfect example of their signature style.
It's worth noting that while many people associate this song with Bon Scott, who was the frontman for AC/DC at the time of its release, it was actually written by his replacement, Brian Johnson. Johnson's vocal performance on the track is nothing short of electrifying, cementing his place in rock history as one of the greatest singers of all time.
According to Rolling Stone magazine’s ranking of the 100 Greatest Guitar Songs of All Time, "Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap" sits at number 39 on the list – a well-deserved honor for what is undoubtedly one of AC/DC's most legendary tunes.
Listening to 'Hells Bells' is like being in church, except the only thing you're worshipping is Angus Young's guitar skills.
2. “Hells Bells”
This notable ACDC track, often referred to as “The Bells,” is the second song on their 1980 album, Back in Black. Its memorable intro and gritty vocals by Brian Johnson were inspired by the death of Bon Scott. The lyrics resonate with themes of mortality and the afterlife, making it a classic crowd favorite at live performances.
It was produced by Robert “Mutt” Lange, who also worked with the band on their previous album Highway to Hell. The song's iconic intro features a tolling church bell recorded in the Netherlands that took over 10 minutes to record. Despite its dark subject matter, “Hells Bells” is often described as uplifting and energizing due to its infectious groove.
ACDC has said that they purposely chose not to release this song as a single, wanting to keep it exclusive for fans attending their concerts.
Fun fact: In 2012, ESPN used “Hells Bells” as part of their theme music for their Monday Night Football program.
Listening to ‘T.N.T.’ is like taking a shot of adrenaline straight to the heart – just make sure your speakers can handle the explosion.
3. “T.N.T.”
This particular AC/DC song is definitely one of the classics that have stood the test of time. It offers a unique experience with its melody and lyrics that remain evergreen even decades after its initial release. Let us delve into the reasons for its enduring popularity, shall we?
- The intense chorus of “Oi, oi, oi!” adds a layer of energy to the already upbeat song
- The consistent riff played on the guitar creates a rock-solid foundation for the vocal prowess of Brian Johnson
- “T.N.T.” is known for its irreverent lyrics that are reminiscent of AC/DC’s signature devil-may-care attitude
Interestingly, despite being an old track from their repertoire, “T.N.T.” remains an evergreen choice even among newer generations of fans.
As we have seen with previous songs from AC/DC, “T.N.T.” too showcases their ability to create a stadium anthem out of any tune they set their hearts and minds to. Its infectiously catchy rhythm has made it a staple choice in various classic rock playlists and radio stations worldwide.
It's said that the original inspiration behind this song came from a late-night encounter with fellow hard rock band Leadbelly in a Texas hotel lobby where he exclaimed “I’m dynamite!”. This led lead guitarist Angus Young to pen down this iconic phrase as one of the key lyrics in "T.N.T." – truly illustrating how creativity can come from unexpected sources.
Let there be rock, and let there be no doubt that this AC/DC classic deserves a spot in the top 5 of their all-time best songs.
4. “Let There Be Rock”
This AC/DC classic, a must-play at every concert, is any hard rock fan's dream. With an iconic guitar intro followed by Brian Johnson's electrifying vocals, “Let There Be Rock” is an anthem that embodies sheer power and energy. It exudes a sense of controlled chaos which reaches its climax with Angus Young's blistering solo towards the end, leaving the audience in awe. Its status as one of the greatest hard rock songs of all time is undeniable, making it a quintessential piece of AC/DC's legacy.
As each instrument builds on the other in an orchestrated frenzy, “Let There Be Rock” perfectly showcases AC/DC's signature sound. The song paints a vivid picture of a wild and gritty world filled with dirty riffs and heavy drums while expressing a deep appreciation for rock music itself. Its primal energy never fails to ignite any listener's passion for rock and roll.
Interestingly enough, the band did not intend for this hit to be their stand-out song initially but it was the fans who took to it immediately. Following its release in 1977, “Let There Be Rock” became one of their most iconic anthems.
Missing out on listening to “Let There Be Rock” means missing out on one of rock history's greatest tracks. A true classic that will continue to inspire raging guitar solos and devil-horn salutes for generations to come!
Get ready to salute, because AC/DC is about to rock your world with 'For Those About to Rock'.
5. “For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)”
This AC/DC hit, which goes by the name "For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)," is a timeless classic that has become a staple of rock music. As one of the band's most iconic tracks, its powerful riffs and explosive chorus embody the essence of the genre. With lyrics that pay tribute to the rebellious spirit of rock and roll, it's no wonder that this song remains a crowd favorite to this day.
The thunderous drumbeat and electrifying guitar solos drive home the message of defiance and liberation that defines this song. Moreover, the anthemic chorus ensures that audiences can't help but sing along. The infectious energy of "For Those About to Rock" makes it impossible not to feel empowered and energized by its raw power.
Beyond its musical prowess, this track also showcases the unparalleled talent of Brian Johnson as lead singer. His booming vocals perfectly complement the driving instrumentation of his bandmates, resulting in a truly unforgettable performance.
In addition to being an all-time classic, "For Those About to Rock" is also a testament to AC/DC's lasting influence on rock music. Its hard-hitting sound has inspired countless artists over the years, cementing its place in rock history. For those looking for an iconic example of what makes AC/DC such an enduring force in music, look no further than "For Those About to Rock (We Salute You)".
If Whole Lotta Rosie doesn't make you want to grab a beer and rock out, then you might need to check your pulse.
6. “Whole Lotta Rosie”
One of the top 10 songs by AC/DC is a rock classic, known as the big "Whole Lotta Rosie". This powerful and dynamic tune features outrageous lyrics, screaming guitar riffs and stadium-sized drums. Its fans particularly enjoy its hard-driving bass line that makes an excellent connection between the verse and chorus. The beat on this song is infectious, making it one of the band's biggest hits.
AC/DC's Whole Lotta Rosie was initially written about a highly-endowed woman Angus Young encountered in Tasmania, who later became known as Rosie. When performed live, this tune always drew an enthusiastic crowd response with perennial rock-star energy and stamina.
If you enjoy listening to classic rock music, then we highly recommend adding AC/DC's Whole Lotta Rosie to your playlist for soul-soothing. The steady-paced drums will cheer you up when feeling down or when working out at the gym. Just crank up your speakers and let Angus' electrifying riff lift your spirit.
One way to appreciate this timeless work of art is to pay close attention to each instrument played in each part of the song while focusing on his virtuoso guitar solo towards the end of the track.
Warning: Listening to 'You Shook Me All Night Long' may result in uncontrollable air guitar playing and questionable dance moves.
7. “You Shook Me All Night Long”
This classic rock hit from AC/DC's seventh studio album is a fan favorite. With its contagious guitar riff and catchy chorus, this song has become an anthem for rock enthusiasts worldwide. It's a perfect representation of the band's talent for blending hard rock and pop sensibilities. The lyrics speak of youthful exuberance, capturing the excitement of a night out on the town with someone special. The track was released in 1980 and still resonates with audiences today, showing that its appeal is timeless.
What sets "You Shook Me All Night Long" apart from other AC/DC hits is its commercial success, reaching high on charts globally and becoming one of their most popular songs ever recorded. The combination of a melodic hook, memorable chorus, and sultry riff makes it an instant classic. The music video was also groundbreaking in its depiction of women in positions of power and influence.
Interestingly, the song's opening riff was based on blues artist Muddy Waters' "Hoochie Coochie Man." This homage to their musical roots is an excellent example of how AC/DC integrated traditional blues themes into their own unique sound.
Thunderstruck is like a lightning bolt to the eardrums, leaving fans electrified and ready to rock all night long.
8. “Thunderstruck”
This track's iconic guitar riff forms the backbone of one of AC/DC's most recognizable anthems. "Thunderstruck" is a hard-hitting, adrenaline-fueled rock song that has become a staple at sporting events and concerts alike. The lyrics speak to the rush of excitement and energy that comes with being alive, making it a favorite among fans worldwide.
As the opening track on their 1990 album "The Razors Edge," "Thunderstruck" set the tone for what would become one of AC/DC's most successful releases. The song's soaring vocals, ear-catching melody, and thunderous drums make it an instant classic that continues to resonate with listeners today.
One unique aspect of "Thunderstruck" is its use of sound effects, including a striking lightning bolt which introduces the song. This added layer of production gives the track an even more dramatic feel, heightening its impact and elevating it above others in AC/DC's impressive catalog.
Without a doubt, "Thunderstruck" remains as powerful now as when it was first released over three decades ago. Its timeless appeal and enduring popularity make it a must-listen for any fan of this legendary band. Don't miss out on the masterpiece that is "Thunderstruck."
Driving down the highway to hell has never been more tempting after listening to this AC/DC classic.
9. “Highway to Hell”
This particular AC/DC masterpiece needs no introduction to fans of the band or rock music enthusiasts. The iconic “Highway to Hell” track showcases both the incredible vocals and instrumental prowess of the group. Its catchy chorus, driving guitar riffs, and dynamic tempo changes make it an instant classic. The song became one of their biggest hits worldwide and propelled them to new heights in the music industry.
Aside from its commercial success, “Highway to Hell” also carries a deeper message about living life on your own terms. Its lyrics describe the journey down a perilous road to the gates of hell, but with a strong sense of freedom and defiance. This spirit of rebellion resonates with countless listeners and has cemented its status as an anthem for generations.
It's worth noting that “Highway to Hell” was tragically the last album recorded with lead singer Bon Scott, who passed away shortly after its release. This adds an emotional weight to the song as fans pay tribute to his amazing talent and contribution to rock history. Overall, this unforgettable track continues to inspire new generations and remains essential listening for any AC/DC fan.
Even if you're not a fan of AC/DC, you can't deny that 'Back in Black' is the go-to song for any funeral procession.
10. “Back In Black”
This timeless classic track continues to resonate with music lovers worldwide. Its powerful riff, evocative lyrics and infectious melody are an indomitable force in the history of rock n'roll. The unforgettable guitar intro and Brian Johnson's dynamic vocals cemented "Back In Black" as one of AC/DC's most iconic songs.
The song was released in 1980 as the title track for their seventh studio album after the untimely death of lead singer Bon Scott. It went on to become one of the band's greatest hits, earning them global recognition and a place in rock n' roll history.
"Back In Black" stands out among other AC/DC tracks, thanks to its simple yet powerful composition and deeply resonant theme. From pumping up sports arenas to blaring from car stereos, this song has made its mark on popular culture and remains a favorite for generations.
Whether you're reliving past memories or discovering it anew, "Back In Black" is an essential listen for any music lover looking to experience the power of AC/DC's iconic sound. Don't miss out on a true masterpiece of rock n' roll!
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
