Welcome to this week’s edition of “Mastering the Iconic Guitar Sound.” Today, we dive into the electrifying techniques of the legendary Angus Young from AC/DC. Known for his high-energy performances and signature sound, Angus Young has left an indelible mark on the rock genre. Let’s break down his style, explore his top hits, and learn how you can replicate his iconic sound.

History of Angus Young

Born on March 31, 1955, in Glasgow, Scotland, Angus Young moved to Australia with his family at a young age. He co-founded AC/DC in 1973 with his brother Malcolm Young. Angus’s schoolboy uniform and energetic stage presence, combined with his distinctive guitar style, quickly made him a standout in the rock world. AC/DC rose to international fame with albums like High Voltage and Highway to Hell, cementing Angus Young’s status as a rock icon.

Iconic Hits of Angus Young

Angus Young’s catalog with AC/DC is filled with hard-hitting rock anthems. Here are some of his most iconic tracks, with a brief description of the musical elements that make each one special:

“Back in Black” – Featuring one of the most recognizable riffs in rock history, this song showcases Young’s powerful and precise rhythm playing.

“Highway to Hell” – Known for its driving riff and infectious energy, this track exemplifies Young’s ability to create catchy, hard-hitting rock songs.

“Thunderstruck” – Famous for its lightning-fast intro and dynamic solos, this song highlights Young’s technical prowess and showmanship.

“You Shook Me All Night Long” – A classic rock anthem with a memorable riff and solo, demonstrating Young’s skill in blending melody with raw power.

“Whole Lotta Rosie” – Featuring energetic riffing and blistering solos, this track captures the essence of Young’s high-voltage style.

Watch and Learn: Angus Young’s Guitar Techniques

To delve deeper into Angus Young’s playing style, check out the video below titled “How To Play Guitar Like ACDC [Lesson 1 of 20] Angus Young Player Study”. This video, presented by Your Guitar Academy, kicks off with an AC/DC style rock solo. It’s designed to get you playing immediately, focusing on essential techniques and styles that define Angus Young’s sound. The lesson covers the five pentatonic shapes you’ll need and breaks down an iconic solo, helping you understand why and how Young plays the way he does.

Angus Young’s Techniques to Master

Angus Young’s guitar style is characterized by its aggressive picking, dynamic solos, and energetic stage presence. Here are some key techniques to help you replicate his sound:

Aggressive Picking: Young’s rhythm playing is defined by its aggressive, tight picking. Practice alternate picking and palm muting to achieve his powerful, precise sound.

Open Chords and Power Chords: Master the use of open chords and power chords to create the driving rhythms characteristic of AC/DC’s music.

Pentatonic Scale: Young frequently uses the pentatonic scale in his solos. Practice this scale in various positions on the neck to develop fluid, bluesy solos.

String Bending and Vibrato: Incorporate string bending and vibrato to add expression and intensity to your solos. Young’s solos are filled with bends that create a vocal-like quality.

Double Stops: Use double stops to add a fuller sound to your solos. Young often employs this technique to create harmonized lines and add depth to his playing.

Stage Presence: While not a technical guitar skill, Young’s stage presence is a crucial part of his performance. Emulate his energy and showmanship to captivate your audience.

Gear for Angus Young’s Trademark Sound

To achieve Angus Young’s sound, you’ll need the right equipment. Here’s a breakdown of the gear that can help you capture his iconic tone:

Guitar Pro Recommendation: Gibson SG Standard – Young’s guitar of choice, known for its sharp, biting tone and comfortable playability.

Budget Option: Epiphone SG Standard – A more affordable option that still delivers the signature SG sound.

Amp Pro Recommendation: Marshall JVM210C All Tube 2CH 100 Watt 2X12 Combo – A versatile amp that offers the classic Marshall tone, perfect for replicating Young’s powerful sound​.

Amp Budget Option: Marshall DSL40CR Amplifier Combo 1×12 40 Watts – An affordable amp that provides great Marshall tone and functionality, suitable for both novices and pros​.

Effects Pedals Overdrive Pedal: Boss DS-1 Distortion – A reliable pedal that provides the classic overdriven sound.

Wah-Wah Pedal (Optional): Dunlop Cry Baby Wah – To add expressiveness and dynamic range to solos.

Angus Young’s Legacy

Angus Young’s influence on rock music is undeniable, and his legacy continues to inspire guitarists worldwide. His high-energy performances, distinctive sound, and unwavering dedication to rock and roll have made him a true icon. AC/DC’s music remains a staple in the rock genre, with countless bands citing Young as a major influence.

Many iconic musicians, from Slash to Eddie Van Halen, have acknowledged Young’s impact on their playing. His ability to create memorable riffs and solos, combined with his electrifying stage presence, set a standard that continues to resonate today.

In recent years, AC/DC has maintained their status as rock legends, with Young leading the charge. His contributions to music are not just historical footnotes but living, breathing elements of the ongoing evolution of rock.

Final Thoughts

Angus Young’s aggressive guitar techniques and high-energy performances have cemented his place as a rock icon. By mastering his style, you can bring a piece of rock history into your own playing. Keep practicing, and don’t forget to incorporate Young’s energy and showmanship into your performances.

If you enjoyed this article, make sure to check out our other posts on GetMyGuitar.com guitar blog. From mastering iconic guitar sounds to exploring the latest trends in the guitar world, we have a wealth of content designed to inspire and educate guitar enthusiasts of all levels. Stay tuned for more exciting stories and insights into the world of guitars. Happy playing!