Angus Young, the signature sound behind AC/DC, is often ranked among the greatest rock guitarists of all time. Known for his raw energy, sharp tone, and unforgettable riffs, he helped shape some of the most iconic rock songs ever made. From Back in Black to T.N.T. and Thunderstruck, his guitar work is instantly recognizable. Without him, AC/DC simply wouldn’t be what it is today.
A Style All His Own
Young’s guitar playing is both gritty and electric, blending blues roots with the high-voltage spirit of rock. His weapon of choice—the Gibson SG—delivers a fierce, punchy tone that’s become a hallmark of the band’s sound. Even now, well into his sixties, he performs with the same carefree energy that made him famous. No wonder generations of guitarists look up to him as a legend.
His Early Influences
In an interview with Guitar magazine in Germany, Young spoke about the two guitarists who made a lasting impression on him: Jimi Hendrix and Jimmy Page. He remembered listening to Page’s version of The Yardbirds back in the day, before Hendrix blew his mind with Purple Haze.
“I could play guitar a little bit, but I really got focused around age 12 or so. When I first heard Purple Haze, I was blown away. I kept thinking, ‘How’s he doing that?’”
That moment changed everything for Young. Although he admired Page, he felt Hendrix brought something new—something wild and untouchable.
“When Hendrix came along, it was like, ‘Woah!’ He took guitar to another level.”
Lessons from Family and Jazz
Young also gave credit to his older brother Malcolm, who played rhythm guitar in AC/DC. Malcolm would often figure out the notes of a song and teach them to Angus, who then adapted them to his style.
But Angus didn’t just learn from rock. His musical influences came from all over.
“There was Chuck Berry, a bit of blues, some folk, even early jazz. My sister gave me all kinds of records. I once heard Louis Armstrong play a trumpet solo and thought, ‘I like those notes,’ so I learned them on guitar.”
That mix of styles helped him build his unique voice on the instrument. He wasn’t trying to copy anyone—he was pulling from everything he loved.
A Lifelong Learner
Angus doesn’t try to act like he figured it all out on his own. He openly admits that his style is a blend of many things—family, records, and other musicians. And that’s what makes him relatable, even for beginners.
“When I look at all the players I admire, it’s a long list. A to Z—there’s a lot of them.”
His story is a reminder that even the most iconic guitarists start by learning from others. Then, with time, they make it their own.
