AC/DC Guitarist and Co-Founder Malcolm Young Dead at Age 64
Guitarist Malcolm Young, who co-founded AC/DC with his younger brother, Angus, has passed away at age 64.
Malcolm was forced to retire from AC/DC in 2014 as a result of being afflicted with dementia. For the Young family, his death most certainly hurts all the more as a result of coming less than a month after the passing of George Young, Malcolm and Angus’ older brother who produced the first five AC/DC albums.
Says the band via their website:
“Today it is with deep heartfelt sadness that AC/DC has to announce the passing of Malcolm Young.
“Malcolm, along with Angus, was the founder and creator of AC/DC.
“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.
“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.”
Adds Angus Young:
“As his brother it is hard to express in words what he has meant to me during my life, the bond we had was unique and very special.
“He leaves behind an enormous legacy that will live on forever.
“Malcolm, job well done.”
The rest of Malcolm’s family also released this additional statement:
“It is with deepest sorrow that we inform you of the death of Malcolm Young, beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother. Malcolm had been suffering from Dementia for several years and passed away peacefully with his family by his bedside.
“Renowned for his musical prowess Malcolm was a songwriter, guitarist, performer, producer and visionary who inspired many. From the outset, he knew what he wanted to achieve and, along with his younger brother, took to the world stage giving their all at every show. Nothing less would do for their fans.
“Malcolm is survived by his loving wife O’Linda, children Cara and Ross, son-in-law Josh, three grandchildren, sister and brother.
“While thanking all for their overwhelming support and heartfelt condolences, the family ask that you respect their privacy during this time of heartbreak and grief.
“For those wishing to send messages to the family please visit the Sydney Morning Herald Malcolm Young Memorial website which will be available next week.
“The family have asked instead of flowers to send donations to The Salvation Army.”
It goes without saying that Malcolm Young was a legend whose importance to the history of rock music cannot be overstated. Our heartfelt condolensces go out to all of Malcolm’s loved ones. We hope they can find some comfort in the fact that he leaves behind a legacy that any artist would envy; his music guaranteed to outlive all of us.
Below, watch fan-filmed video of Malcolm’s final performance with the band, which took place in Bilbao, Spain in June of 2016 (via Rolling Stone). He rocked; we salute him.
