The sound of an electric guitar riff, perfectly simple yet seismically powerful, signifies the return of rock’s most enduring titans. For over five decades, AC/DC has operated as a singular force in music, a band whose commitment to raw, blues-infused, high-voltage rock and roll has never wavered.
The news that the band is returning to the road for a new series of dates is a powerful confirmation that the band’s fire still burns with stadium-shaking intensity. Their touring legacy is built on a flawless catalog that transcends generations, defining the soundtrack of countless concerts and cultural moments.
Back In Black (1980)
This song is the sound of resurrection. Released following the tragic death of original singer Bon Scott, this monumental track served as a defiant declaration of the band’s continuity and strength with new vocalist Brian Johnson. Its iconic, immediate guitar riff—one of the most recognizable in music history—and driving tempo made it a global anthem that stands as one of the best-selling songs of all time.
Highway to Hell (1979)
This track is pure rock and roll swagger, perfectly capturing the hedonistic, rebellious spirit of the band’s Bon Scott era. The title and lyrics encapsulated the band’s reputation as a hard-living touring machine, and the chorus is one of the most instantly recognizable singalongs in rock history. The song’s raw energy solidified AC/DC’s place as the ultimate party band just before their world-altering tragedy.
Thunderstruck (1990)
The immediate power of “Thunderstruck” lies in its electrifying, arpeggiated guitar introduction by Angus Young, a riff that remains one of the most complex and exciting pieces of music in their catalog. The song’s intensity and driving momentum made it an arena staple and a massive cultural touchstone, constantly used in sports highlights and action film trailers, proving their enduring relevance decades into their career.
Hells Bells (1980)
Serving as the dramatic, chilling opener to the Back in Black album, this track is heavy, ominous, and utterly unique in the AC/DC discography. The slow, tolling bell and doom-laden tempo—a powerful tribute to Bon Scott—create a sense of immense atmosphere and weight. It is a masterpiece of controlled rock that defined the mood for their most important album.
You Shook Me All Night Long (1980)
This song is the band’s essential crossover hit, a perfect blend of hard rock punch and radio-friendly accessibility. Its infectious, rolling bass line, tight drumming, and Brian Johnson’s soaring vocals created an undeniable arena rock anthem. The track demonstrated AC/DC’s mastery of the simple, universal love song, making it a permanent fixture on classic rock stations worldwide.
Angus Young of AC/DC performs onstage during the AC/DC PWR UP Europe tour. (Source: Andreas Rentz/Getty Images)
T.N.T. (1975)
An early, explosive statement of the band’s identity, “T.N.T.” introduced the world to their raw, bluesy aggression and signature schoolboy energy. Bon Scott’s gritty vocals and the song’s simple, driving beat were the blueprint for high-voltage rock. The famous, shouted chorus, “Oi! Oi! Oi!”, immediately became a powerful, unifying chant for their growing fanbase.
For Those About to Rock (We Salute You) (1981)
This song is less a track and more a ceremonial closing statement. The anthemic, slow-building power is designed to honor the audience, culminating in the band’s iconic use of live cannon fire during performances. Its massive scale and deliberate structure solidified it as the ultimate concert finale, a powerful, emotional testament to the symbiotic relationship between the band and their loyal fans.
Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (1976)
This classic track perfectly embodies the band’s early, mischievous persona under Bon Scott. The song is a bluesy, satirical ode to a shady operator willing to perform dubious tasks for a price. Its heavy, syncopated rhythm and Scott’s storytelling lyrics provided a darkly humorous, enduring piece of rock folklore that remains a fan favorite.
Whole Lotta Rosie (1977)
This track is classic AC/DC storytelling, built around a massive, driving riff and Bon Scott’s raucous, humorous lyrics about a real-life large-and-in-charge Tasmanian woman. The song’s simplicity and relentless pace made it a staple of their live show, where it showcased the band’s raw, unapologetic commitment to the blues foundation of their sound.
It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘N’ Roll) (1975)
This early track is one of their most distinctive, serving as a genuine anthem for the touring musician’s struggle. The song is unique for its inclusion of bagpipes, performed by Bon Scott, giving it an undeniable Celtic flair. It’s a defiant, rousing track that captured the band’s ambition and established their road-warrior identity.
