Some musicians are irreplaceable, and it’s not just about playing the right notes. Many fans would agree that if The Beatles had reformed in the 1970s without Paul McCartney, the outcry would have been deafening. Similarly, despite AC/DC’s evolving lineup, it would have been inconceivable for the legendary rock band to continue without either Angus or Malcolm Young.
Though AC/DC’s music is often criticized for its simplicity, the band’s success is undeniable. Their raw power chords are the essence of rock ‘n’ roll, instantly recognizable to anyone who hears them. Just the opening chords of “You Shook Me All Night Long” can send fans into a frenzy even before Brian Johnson’s iconic vocals hit. And while Angus is often the focal point of the band, with his famous schoolboy outfit and wild guitar solos, Malcolm was always the heartbeat of the band. His role as the rhythm guitarist often took a backseat, but his contributions were felt deeply, especially when locking into that signature groove with the drums.
Malcolm’s rhythm guitar style was key to AC/DC’s sound. He didn’t bother with solos, but his groove, particularly in songs like “Highway to Hell,” set him apart from other guitarists. Many cover bands struggle to recreate that same swing and feel because, as Angus will attest, it was Malcolm’s mastery of rhythm that made it all work.
After Malcolm’s battle with dementia and his eventual death in 2017, the question arose: who could possibly fill those shoes? The answer, for Angus, was clear — his nephew, Stevie Young. Stevie had already stepped in when Malcolm took time off for rehab, and Angus knew Stevie was the right person to carry on the legacy. As Angus explained, “Nothing could ever replace Malcolm because Malcolm is the founder, and he set the whole style. But Stevie certainly can do the role. He knows how it should be.”
Stevie’s ability to replicate Malcolm’s style wasn’t just about mimicking the sound. It was about understanding the nuances and groove that Malcolm brought to the band. Fans who saw Stevie perform alongside AC/DC with Axl Rose would hardly notice any difference in tone, as Stevie matched his uncle’s playing nearly note-for-note.
While the absence of Malcolm is deeply felt, both on and off stage, it’s clear that Stevie, with his deep understanding of the family’s musical legacy, is the only one who could have stepped into the role. For Angus, Stevie is not just a replacement; he is the continuation of a musical bloodline that runs deeper than any mere technicality.
Related Topics
- Ottmar Liebert and Luna Negra to Perform at Boulder Station in September 2025
- The Great Guitars Jazz Group Captivates The Ark Audience with Stellar Performance
- Exploring the Latest Drum Sounds and Presets from Legendary Synths and Modern Tools