AC/DC legend Malcolm Young dies aged 64
Malcolm Young has died aged 64, AC/DC have announced.
In a statement posted to AC/DC's official website, Malcolm's younger brother and AC/DC co-founder Angus said it was "hard to express in words what he has meant to me during my life, the bond we had was unique and very special."
The full post reads:
"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 second statement posted to Facebook reads:
"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 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.
"Malcolm is survived by his loving wife O'Linda, children Cara and Ross, son-in-law Josh, three grandchildren, sister and brother.
"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.
"For those wishing to send messages to the family please visit the Sydney Morning Herald Malcolm Young Memorial website which will be available next week.
"The family have asked instead of flowers to send donations to The Salvation Army."
Together with Angus, Malcolm co-founded AC/DC in Australia in 1973 when he was 20 and his younger sibling was 18-years-old.
Selling over 200million records worldwide including 71million in America alone, he was a permanent member of AC/DC from their inception until 2014 when he was forced to retire after being diagnosed with dementia.
Malcolm’s death comes just four weeks after the passing of his and Angus's older brother George who co-produced many of AC/DC's albums including Let There Be Rock, Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap, T.N.T, Powerage and High Voltage.
RIP Malcolm Young. Everyone at Planet Rock's thoughts are with the Youngs and the entire AC/DC family.
'We salute you': The rock world pays tribute to Malcolm Young
Planet Rock will be playing AC/DC’s seminal classic album ‘Back In Black’ in its glorious entirety on Monday 20th November at 11pm in memory of Malcolm.