AC/DC Original Members: The Untold Story Of Rock's Founding Legends

Mr. Axel Bailey 12 May 2025

There’s something magical about the early days of rock ‘n’ roll bands, isn’t there? AC/DC, one of the biggest names in rock history, started with a group of passionate musicians who dreamed big. The original members of AC/DC laid the foundation for what would become one of the most iconic rock bands in the world. If you're a fan of the band or just curious about their roots, this article dives deep into the origins of AC/DC and the people who made it all happen.

Rock music isn’t just about the songs; it’s about the stories behind the music. The original lineup of AC/DC wasn’t just a bunch of guys jamming in a garage—it was the beginning of something legendary. These guys were raw, unpolished, and full of energy, and their passion for music is what set the tone for the band's future success.

So, if you're ready to take a trip back to where it all began, let’s explore the untold story of the original members of AC/DC. From their humble beginnings to their impact on the band's legacy, we’re about to uncover some pretty cool stuff. Trust me, you’re gonna love this ride!

Who Were the AC/DC Original Members?

Let’s break it down. The original lineup of AC/DC consisted of five key players who brought the band to life. Malcolm Young, Angus Young, Dave Evans, Larry Van Kriedt, and Colin Burgess were the founding members of the band. Each of them played a crucial role in shaping the sound and identity of AC/DC in its early days.

Now, here’s the thing: not everyone stayed with the band forever, but their contributions were invaluable. The original members were the ones who set the tone for the band's signature style, which would eventually become a defining feature of rock music worldwide. So, who exactly were these rock legends?

Biography of AC/DC Original Members

Before we dive into the details of each member, let’s take a quick look at their biographies. Below is a table summarizing the key information about the original members of AC/DC:

Name	Role	Birth Date	Instrument	Years Active
Malcolm Young	Rhythm Guitarist	January 6, 1953	Guitar	1973–2014
Angus Young	Lead Guitarist	March 31, 1955	Guitar	1973–Present
Dave Evans	Vocalist	March 26, 1950	Vocals	1973–1974
Larry Van Kriedt	Bassist	March 8, 1950	Bass	1973–1974
Colin Burgess	Drummer	March 25, 1948	Drums	1973–1974

These guys were the heart and soul of AC/DC in the early days. They may not have all stayed with the band long-term, but their contributions were monumental in shaping the band’s identity.

The Founding of AC/DC: A Rock ‘N’ Roll Dream

AC/DC wasn’t born overnight. The band’s origins trace back to 1973 in Sydney, Australia. Malcolm and Angus Young, two brothers with a passion for music, decided to form a band that would shake the world. They were inspired by the raw energy of blues and rock music, and they wanted to create something that would stand the test of time.

Malcolm and Angus weren’t the only ones involved. They recruited Dave Evans as the vocalist, Larry Van Kriedt on bass, and Colin Burgess on drums. Together, they formed the first official lineup of AC/DC. The band’s name itself was inspired by a voltage indicator on a sewing machine, which Malcolm thought was perfect for their high-energy sound.

Why Were the Original Members Important?

The original members of AC/DC were crucial in defining the band’s sound and image. Malcolm and Angus brought their guitar skills and songwriting expertise, while Dave Evans provided the vocals that would later inspire Bon Scott. Larry Van Kriedt and Colin Burgess rounded out the rhythm section, giving the band a solid foundation.

Here’s a quick breakdown of their contributions:

Malcolm Young: The backbone of the band’s rhythm guitar work.
Angus Young: The face of the band with his iconic schoolboy uniform and electrifying guitar solos.
Dave Evans: The first vocalist, whose style paved the way for future vocalists like Bon Scott.
Larry Van Kriedt: The bassist who helped shape the early sound of AC/DC.
Colin Burgess: The drummer who provided the driving force behind the band’s early performances.

Without these guys, AC/DC might never have become the global phenomenon it is today.

Malcolm Young: The Quiet Force Behind AC/DC

Malcolm Young was more than just a rhythm guitarist; he was the glue that held the band together. Known for his no-nonsense approach to music, Malcolm was the driving force behind AC/DC’s success. He had a unique ability to craft riffs that were both powerful and memorable, and his work ethic inspired everyone around him.

Malcolm’s influence extended beyond just his musical contributions. He was instrumental in shaping the band’s direction and ensuring that they stayed true to their roots. Even when things got tough, Malcolm was always there to keep the band moving forward.

Angus Young: The Face of AC/DC

Angus Young is arguably the most recognizable member of AC/DC. His signature schoolboy uniform and lightning-fast guitar solos have become synonymous with the band’s identity. But there’s more to Angus than just his flashy stage presence. He’s a true musician at heart, with a deep understanding of blues and rock music.

Angus’s contribution to AC/DC can’t be overstated. His guitar work has been a defining feature of the band’s sound since day one, and his energy on stage is unmatched. If you’ve ever seen AC/DC live, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

Dave Evans: The First Voice of AC/DC

Dave Evans may not have been with the band for long, but his impact was significant. As the first vocalist of AC/DC, he laid the groundwork for the band’s vocal style. His performances on the band’s early recordings, such as "Can I Sit Next to You Girl," showcase his unique voice and stage presence.

While Dave Evans didn’t stick around for the long haul, his contributions to the band’s early days were invaluable. He helped establish the band’s sound and paved the way for future vocalists like Bon Scott and Brian Johnson.

Larry Van Kriedt: The Unsung Hero

Larry Van Kriedt may not be a household name, but he played a crucial role in AC/DC’s early days. As the band’s first bassist, he helped shape the rhythm section that would become a hallmark of AC/DC’s sound. Larry’s contributions may have been short-lived, but they were essential in laying the foundation for the band’s future success.

Like many early members of rock bands, Larry’s story is one of passion and dedication. He may not have achieved the same level of fame as some of his bandmates, but his influence on AC/DC’s early sound is undeniable.

Colin Burgess: The Rhythmic Backbone

Colin Burgess was the drummer who helped bring AC/DC’s early sound to life. His driving beats provided the foundation for the band’s high-energy performances, and his contributions were crucial in establishing the band’s identity.

While Colin didn’t stay with the band for long, his impact on AC/DC’s early days was significant. Like Larry Van Kriedt, he was an unsung hero whose contributions helped shape the band’s sound and style.

The Legacy of the Original Members

The original members of AC/DC may not have all stayed with the band for the long haul, but their legacy lives on. They were the ones who laid the foundation for what would become one of the biggest rock bands in the world. Their passion, dedication, and musical talent are what made AC/DC the iconic band it is today.

Even though some of the original members are no longer with us, their contributions to the band’s history will never be forgotten. Malcolm Young, in particular, will always be remembered as the backbone of AC/DC, while Angus Young continues to carry the torch as the band’s frontman.

The Impact of the Original Members on AC/DC’s Sound

The original members of AC/DC had a profound impact on the band’s sound and style. Their raw, unpolished approach to music set them apart from other bands of the time, and their energy on stage was unmatched. This early sound would go on to influence countless musicians and bands in the years to come.

Here are some key ways the original members influenced AC/DC’s sound:

Blues Influence: The Young brothers drew inspiration from blues music, which gave AC/DC its signature sound.
High-Energy Performances: The original lineup brought a level of energy to their performances that would become a defining feature of AC/DC.
Simple Yet Powerful Riffs: Malcolm Young’s rhythm guitar work and Angus’s lead solos created a sound that was both simple and powerful.

These elements would go on to define AC/DC’s sound and style for decades to come.

The Evolution of AC/DC After the Original Members

As with many rock bands, AC/DC underwent several changes in its lineup over the years. While the original members may not have all stayed with the band, their influence continued to shape its direction. Bon Scott and Brian Johnson would go on to become some of the band’s most iconic vocalists, and their contributions helped take AC/DC to new heights.

Despite these changes, the band has always stayed true to its roots. The raw energy and passion that defined the original lineup are still present in AC/DC’s music today. It’s a testament to the lasting impact of those early days.

What Can We Learn from the Original Members?

The story of AC/DC’s original members is a lesson in passion, dedication, and perseverance. These guys started with nothing but a dream and a love for music, and they worked tirelessly to make that dream a reality. Their story is a reminder that great things can happen when you stay true to your vision and work hard to achieve your goals.

For fans of AC/DC, the original members represent the heart and soul of the band. They may not have all stayed with the band forever, but their contributions will always be remembered and celebrated.

Conclusion: Celebrating the Original Members of AC/DC

So, there you have it—the untold story of AC/DC’s original members. These guys were the foundation of one of the greatest rock bands in history, and their contributions will never be forgotten. From Malcolm and Angus Young to Dave Evans, Larry Van Kriedt, and Colin Burgess, each member played a crucial role in shaping the band’s sound and identity.

As you can see, the original members of AC/DC were more than just musicians—they were visionaries who dared to dream big and create something truly special. Their legacy lives on through the music of AC/DC, and their impact on the world of rock music is undeniable.

So, the next time you listen to an AC/DC album, take a moment to think about the original members and the role they played in shaping the band’s history. And if you enjoyed this article, why not share it with your friends? Or better yet, leave a comment and let us know what you think. Rock on!

Who Were the AC/DC Original Members?
Biography of AC/DC Original Members

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