metal talk
  A TRIBUTE TO MALCOLM YOUNG


mark taylor
Words: Mark Taylor
23rd November 2017



malcolm young

One of the first albums I ever owned was 'Let There Be Rock' by AC/DC. An album full of monster hooks and riffs, an album that I still play on vinyl at full volume, and each time immediately has me jumping around the room like a loony.

I've been fortunate to witness AC/DC live on every tour they've done since the 'Blow Up Your Video' World Tour back in 1988.

While his brother Angus is out front with Brian Johnson using up every inch of the stage, Malcolm stays out of the spotlight, calmly to the side with his back to a wall of Marshall Amplifiers, effortlessly churning out the biggest riffs known to mankind. A sonic boom that makes the body move and jive throughout the gig.

malcolm young
Photo: Neil Jones

Malcolm Young's last public appearance with AC/DC was on 6th May 2011 at Hammersmith Odeon for the premiere of the 'Live At River Plate' DVD. I was on reporting duties on the "black" carpet being crushed between the barriers that separated us journalists between the band and the fanatic fans.

It was complete pandemonium. I managed to grab a few words with the band, including Malcolm, who seemed to be happy, relaxed and fully coherent. He told me that AC/DC will make another album... sadly his illness prevented him from appearing on the resulting 'Rock Or Bust'.

malcolm young
Photo: Neil Jones

Farewell Malcolm Young... Thanks so much for all the great times... Ride On.