The rock community is mourning the loss of a true legend today as Malcolm Young, the iconic guitarist of AC/DC, has passed away at the age of 64. His death marks the end of an era for fans who cherished his contributions to the world of music, which were often overshadowed by his private struggles.
For years, the band’s powerhouse was veiled in silence, grappling with Malcolm’s devastating health decline amid their soaring fame. Angus Young, his brother and bandmate, has finally opened up about the heartbreaking journey they faced together during Malcolm’s final days, revealing a poignant narrative that will resonate with fans worldwide.
In a heartfelt statement, Angus shared that Malcolm died peacefully, surrounded by family. “Even in his last moments, he had a big smile,” Angus recalled, a testament to the enduring spirit of his brother. The truth of Malcolm’s deteriorating health, however, remained hidden from the public eye for far too long.
Malcolm was diagnosed with dementia in 2014, a cruel twist of fate that slowly robbed him of his musical genius. After years of silence following his funeral in 2017, Angus broke his silence during a feature on 60 Minutes Australia, sharing the profound pain of watching his brother’s health decline. “The hardest part was watching him fade away,” he admitted, revealing the emotional toll it took on their family.
Despite the ravages of dementia, music remained a lifeline for the brothers. Angus often visited Malcolm at Lullworth House nursing home, bringing his guitar to play for him. “He would still tap his foot to the rhythm,” Angus said, illustrating the unbreakable bond they shared through music.
Angus also revealed why he chose to keep AC/DC alive after Malcolm’s passing. He felt a deep obligation to fulfill a promise made to his brother, a commitment to keep the band’s legacy alive. In November 2020, AC/DC released “Power Up,” their 17th studio album, which served as a tribute to Malcolm’s indelible impact on the band’s history.
The album, featuring unreleased riffs from their earlier sessions, was a testament to Malcolm’s enduring creativity. Rolling Stone hailed it as a powerful memorial, noting that Malcolm’s influence echoed through every track, solidifying his place in rock history.
Malcolm Young was not just a remarkable guitarist; he was the backbone of AC/DC, the driving force behind their iconic sound. His journey from the band’s inception in 1973 to becoming a rock legend was marked by both triumph and tragedy. As the band faced numerous challenges, including Malcolm’s personal battles with health issues, his unwavering dedication to music never wavered.
In 2010, Malcolm’s last performance with AC/DC at San Mame Stadium in Bilbao, Spain, was a poignant moment, as he poured every ounce of energy into the show, unaware it would be his final bow. Following his retirement announcement in 2014, the band maintained a veil of secrecy around his health, shielding him from the media’s prying eyes.
Malcolm’s passing in November 2017, shortly after losing his brother George Young, left a profound void in the music world. His funeral at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Sydney was a heartfelt farewell, attended by family, friends, and devoted fans who lined the streets to pay their respects.
Angus, visibly emotional, carried Malcolm’s beloved Gretsch Jet guitar, a symbol of their shared legacy. The bond between the brothers was evident, as Angus reflected on Malcolm’s pivotal role in shaping AC/DC into a global phenomenon.
With an estimated fortune of over $100 million and a treasure trove of musical masterpieces, Malcolm left behind an incredible legacy. Yet, it was his unwavering spirit and dedication that truly defined his life and career.
As fans continue to celebrate Malcolm Young’s contributions to rock music, one question lingers: How will his legacy inspire the next generation of musicians?
