AC/DC co-founder and rock legend Malcolm Young sadly passed away yesterday at 64. The guitarist had been suffering from dementia for three years, and according to a statement died peacefully surrounded by family.
Since news of his passing hit the media, tributes have been coming in thick and fast from some of rocks greatest icons. Everyone from KISS guitarist Paul Stanley to Ozzy Osbourne has paid tribute to one of rock’s most influential talents.
So sad to learn of the passing of yet another friend, Malcolm Young. He will be sadly missed. God Bless @ACDC pic.twitter.com/HuEp3kCuyQ
— Ozzy Osbourne (@OzzyOsbourne) 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
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
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
I’m sorry to hear about Malcolm Young, a fine player. pic.twitter.com/nxlxTrEZIS
— Tony Iommi (@tonyiommi) November 18, 2017
Sincerest condolences going out to the Young family today. Malcolm Young sadly passing too soon. Love ya Angus! pic.twitter.com/a3naL0CvdA
— Duff McKagan (@DuffMcKagan) November 18, 2017
RIP Malcolm Young You were the greatest rhythm guitar player ever Love and condolences to Angus What a sad day for music https://t.co/nskAOvd6Gq
— Jimmy Barnes (@JimmyBarnes) November 18, 2017
“I’m sad to hear of the passing of Malcolm Young. It was great to get the opportunity to open for AC/DC on the Highway To Hell tour & we certainly learned a thing or two. He was an incredible guitar player & the glue for that band onstage & off. RIP Malcolm, say hi to Bon.” – Joe
— Def Leppard (@DefLeppard) November 18, 2017
Heavy heart hearing of Malcolm Young’s passing.Not only did he co- found one of the greatest bands in the world he co wrote the songs that inspired many of us to wanna be in a band.Condolences to his whole family,band mates and fans. RIP bad ass.
— 📷 (@NikkiSixx) November 18, 2017
No words…
…just tears.
Rest in Power Malcolm Young.@acdc pic.twitter.com/HdDrfVBkIc
— Disturbed (@Disturbed) November 18, 2017
AC/DC posted two moving tributes to their co-founder on their Facebook page, praising his drive for perfection and dedication to his craft.
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.
