Malcolm Young, the guitarist and co-founder of AC/DC, has died aged 64.
The iconic rock and roll star had been suffering from dementia for the past three years, an illness which lead to his retirement from the band which he and his brother Angus Young founded in 1973.
Confirming the news on their website, AC/DC wrote:
“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. 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.”
A statement issued by Young’s family read:
“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 on Saturday 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.“
”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.”
Following the news, the music industry paid homage to the late legend with tributes from Biffy Clyro, Ryan Adams, Paul Stanley, Stereophonics and more. See below.
Rest in peace Malcolm Young x
— Biffy Clyro (@BiffyClyro) November 18, 2017
RIP Malcolm Young
Legend.
He was the founding member of AC/DC & the engine that roared behind the most powerful band in the world.
He wrote Back In Black, Highway to Hell, You Shook Me All Night Long, Highway to Hell, so many songs…
Travel safely to the stars, Malcolm.
Legend. pic.twitter.com/xfjylBbh4u— Ryan Adams (@TheRyanAdams) November 18, 2017
‘Malcom Young the best right hand in game! RIP. Play AC/DC loud all day!’ KJ @acdc
— stereophonics (@stereophonics) November 18, 2017
RIP Malcolm Young. Your guitar playing was a huge inspiration. Thanks for that #malcolmyoung #ACDC
— Bryan Adams (@bryanadams) November 18, 2017
It is a sad day in rock and roll. Malcolm Young was my friend and the heart and soul of AC/DC. I had some of the best times of my life with him on our 1984 European tour. He will be missed and my deepest condolences to his family, bandmates and friends.
— Eddie Van Halen (@eddievanhalen) November 18, 2017
Wow…just got off stage here in Brisbane Australia (of all places) to the shocking news of Malcolm Young’s passing. So sad…one of the great rhythm guitar players of all time. (James Hetfield and Scott Ian would be the 1st to say so themselves…) #RIPMalcolmYoung pic.twitter.com/qZXHIMpktF
— Mike Portnoy ? (@MikePortnoy) November 18, 2017
RIP Malcolm Young ? pic.twitter.com/7kHpkg6DK9
— Garbage (@garbage) November 18, 2017
The driving engine of AC/DC has died.A tragic end for a sometimes unsung icon. One of the true greats. RIP. https://t.co/cJe1Xr17IA
— Paul Stanley (@PaulStanleyLive) November 18, 2017
Malcolm Young, the Australian guitarist and AC/DC co-founder, has died aged 64.
Known for the powerhouse riffs and rhythm guitar that propelled the group to superstardom, Young had been suffering from dementia for at least the past three years. pic.twitter.com/ZoMIWWXg4h— Eric Alper (@ThatEricAlper) November 18, 2017
Malcolm Young RIP pic.twitter.com/7ju2GxskRo
— Jim Gellatly (@JimGellatly) November 18, 2017
More on this story as it develops.
