The band underwent significant lineup changes during their formative years, eventually leading to a stable roster by 1977. Bon Scott, whose powerful voice and magnetic stage presence made him an iconic figure, replaced Evans in 1974. With Scott, the band released High Voltage (1975) and T.N.T. (1975) exclusively in Australia, both of which set the tone for their raw, electrifying style. High Voltage showcased the Young brothers’ penchant for simple yet powerful riffs, while T.N.T. included now-classic anthems like “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ’n’ Roll),” which famously incorporated bagpipes and spoke to the struggles of rising rock stars. These albums solidified their reputation in Australia, paving the way for their entry into the global rock scene.
By 1976, AC/DC was gaining attention internationally, leading to their first worldwide release, an international version of High Voltage, which combined songs from their two Australian albums. With producer George Young and Harry Vanda, AC/DC maintained a no-frills, hard-hitting sound that resonated across Europe and North America. Their next album, Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (1976), further expanded their reach, even as the album’s edgier songs, like the title track and “Jailbreak,” explored themes of rebellion and defiance. However, the album faced delays in the U.S., only reaching American audiences in 1981, when AC/DC’s popularity had surged.
In 1977, the band released Let There Be Rock, their fourth studio album, which marked a turning point in their career with heavier production and more ambitious songwriting. Tracks like the title song, “Let There Be Rock,” captured the band’s unabashed love for rock and defiance against conventional norms. This was also the era when Cliff Williams joined on bass, solidifying the classic AC/DC lineup with Phil Rudd on drums, creating a powerful rhythm section that would define the band’s sound. This album’s raw energy and intensity further distinguished AC/DC from their peers, securing their place in the hard rock pantheon.
As they gained traction in the United States, AC/DC continued to record and tour extensively. Their 1978 release, Powerage, took a darker turn lyrically and saw the band refine their sound with polished production while retaining their aggressive edge. Songs like “Rock ’n’ Roll Damnation” and “Sin City” revealed a more sophisticated approach to songwriting, blending social commentary with hard-hitting riffs. The album was well-received in Europe and the U.S., solidifying the band’s growing international fanbase.
Highway to Hell (1979), produced by Mutt Lange, marked AC/DC’s commercial breakthrough and became the defining album of their 1970s catalog. With Lange’s polished production, the band achieved a level of clarity and power that brought their music to mainstream rock audiences. The title track, with its driving rhythm and iconic opening riff, became an anthem of rock rebellion and defiance. This album’s success pushed AC/DC into the upper echelons of rock music, earning them critical acclaim and expanding their influence.
The 1970s ended on a tragic note for AC/DC with the death of Bon Scott in early 1980 due to alcohol poisoning. Scott’s distinctive voice, irreverent lyrics, and wild stage presence had become inseparable from the band’s identity, and his passing left an enormous void. However, his legacy lived on through AC/DC’s music, with Highway to Hell embodying the band’s unyielding rock ethos. As they entered the new decade, AC/DC would honor Scott’s legacy with Back in Black, achieving unparalleled success and solidifying their status as rock legends.
Throughout the 1970s, AC/DC’s relentless energy, hard-hitting sound, and rebellious spirit set them apart from other bands, establishing them as one of the era’s most influential acts. The decade was one of growth, experimentation, and ultimately, triumphs and tragedy that laid the groundwork for their long-lasting legacy in rock music history.
# 10 – T.N.T.
Released in 1975 as a raw burst of energy from AC/DC’s Australian album T.N.T. and later on the international edition of High Voltage, “T.N.T.” exemplifies the band’s hard-rocking, rebellious ethos. Written by Bon Scott, Angus Young, and Malcolm Young, the track brings together AC/DC’s signature elements of blues-driven hard rock with powerful lyrics about strength, independence, and defiance. With Bon Scott’s gritty vocals and the Young brothers’ searing guitar riffs, the song captures a gritty, electrifying feel that became the band’s hallmark in the mid-’70s. The production was helmed by Harry Vanda and George Young, two influential producers who helped AC/DC capture their early sound, setting a benchmark for future releases.
The song’s title, “T.N.T.,” refers to the explosive dynamite compound, embodying the volatile nature of the song’s subject and giving voice to the brash persona that Scott brought to the forefront. “T.N.T.” climbed to No. 19 on the Australian Kent Music Report Singles Chart, marking one of the band’s early breakthroughs. Its success in Australia paved the way for AC/DC’s international rise as the band relocated to London that same year. The infamous phrase “lock up your daughters,” originally a line from the song, became the name of AC/DC’s first headlining UK tour in 1976, solidifying their image as dangerous, unpredictable rockers.
Lyrically, “T.N.T.” reflects the spirit of an outlaw, positioning the narrator as a self-assured troublemaker. Lines like “Public enemy number one” and “lock up your daughter, lock up your wife” tap into the allure of the rebellious lifestyle. With his assertive vocal delivery, Scott paints a picture of a man on the edge, capturing listeners’ imaginations with references to explosive power and reckless behavior. The repeating chorus of “Oi! Oi! Oi!” adds a communal and anthemic feel, creating a call-and-response that has become iconic among fans. Compared to other AC/DC songs on this list, “T.N.T.” offers a straightforward, aggressive stance that contrasts with tracks like “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ’n’ Roll)” in its unapologetic attitude, making it a definitive anthem of rock rebellion.
Charting at No. 19 in Australia, “T.N.T.” continued to be a staple of AC/DC’s live shows and was later included in their live albums Live and Live: 2 CD Collector’s Edition, featuring Brian Johnson on vocals. In 2018, it was celebrated as one of the ‘most Australian’ songs, ranking at number 81 on Triple M’s “Ozzest 100.”
#9 – “Problem Child” – from Let There Be Rock
From their 1977 album Let There Be Rock, “Problem Child” embodies AC/DC’s unfiltered rock-and-roll attitude, capturing the rebellious spirit that defined much of their early work. Written by Bon Scott, Angus Young, and Malcolm Young, the track was a powerful statement of defiance and became an anthem for fans drawn to the band’s anti-establishment attitude. Let There Be Rock, the band’s fourth studio album, marked a key period in AC/DC’s rise, particularly as it was the last album to feature bassist Mark Evans. His distinct basslines, combined with Phil Rudd’s precise drumming, provided the rhythmic foundation that elevated Angus and Malcolm Young’s dynamic guitar interplay.
The lyrics of “Problem Child” deliver a bold and unapologetic portrayal of a protagonist who lives by his own rules, wreaking havoc as he goes. Bon Scott’s vocal delivery—both taunting and charismatic—brings the character to life with lines like “What I want, I take / What I don’t, I break.” This declaration of independence and resistance to authority is threaded through the song’s verses, with a gritty chorus that reinforces the character’s self-identity as a “problem child.” The lyrics resonate with themes of rebellion, giving the song a raw edge that sets it apart from other tracks, even on the aggressive Let There Be Rock album.
Musically, the track channels high-energy rock with a bluesy edge, distinguished by Angus Young’s fiery guitar work and Scott’s inimitable vocal style. Compared to the other songs on this list, such as “T.N.T.,” which also explores the theme of defiance, “Problem Child” takes a more personal and introspective approach to its rebellious message, showing a darker side to the band’s storytelling. Though the song did not chart as a standalone single, it has remained a fan favorite and has been featured prominently in AC/DC’s live sets, a testament to its enduring appeal among audiences who identify with its rebellious spirit.
# 8 – “Love at First Feel” – from Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap
“Love at First Feel,” the second track on the international version of Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap, showcases AC/DC’s provocative style, blending gritty rock-and-roll with suggestive lyrics. Written by Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Bon Scott, the song emphasizes the band’s straightforward approach to romance and lust—a recurring theme in their 1970s repertoire. Released internationally in 1976 but not available in the United States until 1981, “Love at First Feel” was one of the few tracks exclusive to the international edition of the album. This decision gave the song a unique status, while its release as a single in Australia in early 1977, with “Problem Child” as its B-side, peaked within the Kent Music Report Singles Chart Top 100.
Musically, the song stays true to AC/DC’s raw, hard rock roots, with Bon Scott’s raspy vocal delivery combining with Angus Young’s piercing guitar riffs. Mark Evans on bass and Phil Rudd on drums provide a tight rhythmic backbone, giving the song its distinct, heavy rock pulse. The lyrics, with lines like “I didn’t know if you were legal tender / But I spent it just the same,” are blunt and unapologetic, capturing a sense of reckless romance and the thrill of an illicit encounter. This unfiltered approach to storytelling is a hallmark of Scott’s lyricism, resonating with the bold, defiant energy that underpins many of AC/DC’s early tracks.
“Love at First Feel” fits well within the rebellious themes AC/DC explored throughout Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap and makes an intriguing comparison to other songs on this list, such as “T.N.T.,” which is similarly brazen in tone but veers towards a more aggressive stance rather than romantic pursuit. Although “Love at First Feel” didn’t achieve significant chart success, peaking at number sixty-three in Australia, it stands as a testament to AC/DC’s willingness to push boundaries and embrace the risqué themes that have contributed to their lasting rock legend. The song has remained popular enough to inspire covers, such as those by singer-songwriter Mark Kozelek, who included it on his AC/DC cover album What’s Next to the Moon, and the French band Trust, who added their own spin with a French-language version.
#7 – “Dog Eat Dog” – from Let There Be Rock
“Dog Eat Dog,” the second track on Let There Be Rock (1977), finds AC/DC delivering a fierce commentary on the cutthroat nature of society. Written by Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Bon Scott, the song lays bare themes of survival, competition, and cynicism, all encapsulated in its gritty lyrics and punchy instrumentation. With Bon Scott’s distinctive vocals driving home the harsh realities of “dog eat dog” culture, the song has an unflinching energy that resonates with fans, underscoring the band’s unfiltered look at the world around them.
Musically, “Dog Eat Dog” is powered by Angus Young’s razor-sharp lead guitar and a heavy rhythm section helmed by Malcolm Young, Mark Evans on bass, and Phil Rudd’s powerful drumming. Bon Scott’s vocal intensity and storytelling prowess add an extra layer to the song’s critical edge, with lyrics like “Every dog has his day” and “Eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth.” The song touches on themes of power dynamics and self-preservation, questioning societal norms in a style reminiscent of “Problem Child” from the same album, yet taking on a darker tone. This track’s hard-hitting lyrics and relentless beat amplify its message, creating a visceral listening experience that captures AC/DC’s spirit of rebellion.
“Dog Eat Dog” performed well in Australia, reaching number sixty on the Kent Music Report. Despite not being a massive hit elsewhere, the song became a fan favorite and was included in the band’s live performances, notably during their Black Ice World Tour until early 2010. Its legacy endures as a testament to AC/DC’s ability to turn rock music into a commentary on social issues, making it a strong contender among their best tracks of the 1970s. As with Let There Be Rock, the production work of Harry Vanda and George Young adds a raw, unpolished sound that emphasizes the rough-and-tumble message of the lyrics.
#6 – “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ’n’ Roll)” – from High Voltage
“It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)” is an anthem for rock musicians, capturing both the hardships and the dedication required to pursue fame and success. Released as the opening track on T.N.T. in Australia and later on High Voltage internationally, this song became a defining piece for AC/DC, especially with its unique integration of bagpipes—a concept that came about when producer George Young remembered Bon Scott’s background in a pipe band. Although Scott had been a drummer, not a piper, he managed to learn enough to make the track’s legendary call-and-response section between the bagpipes and guitars work. This feature gave the song a distinctive sound that encapsulated AC/DC’s untraditional approach to rock.
The lyrics of “It’s a Long Way to the Top” narrate the often rough path musicians face in their careers. With lines like “Gettin’ robbed, gettin’ stoned, gettin’ beat up, broken-boned,” the song sheds light on the grueling reality of life on the road, contrasting with the glamorous image of rock stardom. This realism resonated with listeners, making it a fan favorite and Bon Scott’s signature song. Interestingly, after Scott’s death in 1980, Brian Johnson chose not to perform the song out of respect for his predecessor, which further cemented Scott’s legacy with it.
A popular hit, the song reached No. 9 on the Australian Kent Music Report chart and has received widespread recognition. In 2018, it was ranked as the fifth most iconic Australian song by Triple M’s “Ozzest 100,” highlighting its deep connection to Australia’s rock identity. The iconic music video, filmed on a flatbed truck rolling through Melbourne’s Swanston Street, visually captures the rugged spirit of the song, with Bon Scott and members of the Rats of Tobruk Pipe Band performing alongside the band. This raw, irreverent energy has solidified “It’s a Long Way to the Top” as one of AC/DC’s most celebrated tracks and an enduring symbol of the band’s journey through the rock ‘n’ roll landscape.
# 5 – “Jailbreak” – from Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap
Jailbreak stands out as one of AC/DC’s grittiest tracks from the Bon Scott era, capturing a raw storytelling style that pairs perfectly with the band’s unapologetic hard rock sound. Released as the ninth track on the Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap album in 1976, “Jailbreak” follows the tale of a man sentenced to 16 years in prison who attempts a daring escape, motivated by his need for freedom and driven by a betrayal involving his lover. The song was co-written by Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Bon Scott, highlighting their collaborative strength in crafting narratives that resonate with rebellion and defiance. It reached No. 10 on the Australian Kent Music Report chart, demonstrating its immediate impact within Australia.
Musically, “Jailbreak” is fueled by its driving guitar riffs, rhythmic basslines, and the unmistakable urgency of Scott’s vocals. The band captures a cinematic quality that is bolstered by the lyrical content, with lines like “All in the name of liberty” and “Got to be free,” underlining the desperation and raw determination of the protagonist. The straightforward guitar work by Angus and Malcolm Young combined with Phil Rudd’s steady drumming creates a gritty soundscape that complements the rebellious nature of the lyrics. Compared to other songs on the list like T.N.T., which is equally unapologetic in its energy, Jailbreak brings an added depth through its storytelling, showcasing AC/DC’s versatility within their hard rock framework.
The music video for “Jailbreak,” filmed in Melbourne in 1976, is memorable for its theatrical approach. Directed by Paul Drane, the video features the band in costume, with Scott, Angus, and Rudd as prisoners and Malcolm and Mark Evans as guards. Explosive effects and fake blood enhance the intensity, giving it a cinematic feel that was groundbreaking at the time. Bon Scott’s portrayal of the prisoner attempting escape adds a layer of realism and drama, reinforcing the song’s themes of defiance and the quest for freedom. This production style set a new standard for AC/DC’s music videos, as it was one of the earliest to integrate storyline elements, unlike previous simple performance footage.
# 4 – “Rock ’n’ Roll Damnation” – from Powerage
Rock ’n’ Roll Damnation opens AC/DC’s 1978 album Powerage, delivering a high-octane blend of blues and rock that exemplifies the band’s fearless energy. Written by Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Bon Scott, this track was famously added to the album at the urging of their record company, which sought a more radio-friendly single to broaden the band’s reach. The song was one of AC/DC’s first to incorporate a more polished, accessible sound without sacrificing its raw intensity, reaching No. 24 on the UK Singles Chart and achieving chart success in several European countries. Its commercial performance made it the band’s first charting single in the UK, a notable milestone as AC/DC was gaining momentum internationally.
Musically, “Rock ’n’ Roll Damnation” diverges from the usual AC/DC formula with the addition of handclaps and maracas, creating a layered, textured sound that distinguished it from heavier tracks like T.N.T. and Dog Eat Dog. This rhythm section accentuates the song’s lively, danceable groove and complements Scott’s electrifying vocal delivery. The song refrains from a conventional guitar solo, an unusual choice for AC/DC but one that gives the track a unique appeal among other songs on Powerage and adds to its radio-friendliness. This choice highlighted the band’s ability to innovate within their established style, marking Rock ’n’ Roll Damnation as both an evolution and a showcase of the band’s versatility.
Lyrically, Bon Scott’s verses embody rebellion and defiance, with lines like “Take a chance while you still got the choice” urging listeners to break free from societal expectations. This narrative of nonconformity echoes through Scott’s gritty vocals, underscoring the themes of independence and self-determination. Compared to the more raucous tone of Jailbreak, Rock ’n’ Roll Damnation tackles rebellion with a swaggering confidence, emphasizing a lifestyle driven by passion and thrill. As Scott demands respect and defends a life of sin and rock ‘n’ roll, the song becomes an anthem for those who live unapologetically, solidifying its place as one of AC/DC’s classic expressions of rock ‘n’ roll ethos in the 1970s.
# 3 – “Whole Lotta Rosie” – from Let There Be Rock
“Whole Lotta Rosie” is a powerful anthem from Let There Be Rock, showcasing AC/DC’s raw energy and sense of humor. Released in 1977, it was recorded at Alberts Studios under the seasoned production of Vanda and Young. This track brings the band’s signature sound to the forefront, featuring an unforgettable riff from Angus Young and Bon Scott’s charismatic, high-energy vocal performance. With Scott’s lyrics detailing a larger-than-life romance, the song exemplifies the band’s no-holds-barred approach to rock ‘n’ roll storytelling.
“Whole Lotta Rosie” did not chart upon its initial release but became a significant staple in AC/DC’s live performances, with fans embracing its infectious energy and bold subject matter. The track tells the story of Scott’s encounter with a memorable woman, with the refrain, “You’re a whole lotta woman, whole lotta Rosie,” turning into an anthem of sorts. Angus Young’s extended guitar solos and Malcolm Young’s relentless rhythm playing further build the song’s energy, making it a fan favorite.
This song’s storytelling style and powerful delivery set it apart from other AC/DC tracks, blending humor and bravado in a way that resonated widely. The song has remained popular over the years and is often cited as one of the quintessential examples of AC/DC’s ability to tell a story with grit and flair.
# 2 – “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” – from Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap
“Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap,” the title track from the 1976 album, quickly became one of AC/DC’s most recognizable songs, with its menacingly playful lyrics and catchy, rebellious tone. Recorded at Albert Studios and produced by Harry Vanda and George Young, the track features Bon Scott’s cheeky vocal delivery, accompanied by the Young brothers’ iconic guitar work. It encapsulates AC/DC’s early style, blending rock grit with humor in a way that appealed widely to fans.
Chart-wise, “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” initially went under the radar, as the album itself wasn’t immediately released in the United States. However, the song gained massive traction when the album was finally released in the U.S. in 1981, where it became a fan favorite and reached number 3 on the Billboard 200 albums chart. The song’s lyrics, with lines like “If you got a lady and you want her gone / But you ain’t got the guts,” play with the idea of a “hitman for hire,” adding a darkly comic twist to AC/DC’s repertoire.
The song’s rebellious theme and memorable riff have turned it into one of AC/DC’s enduring classics, illustrating the band’s fearless attitude and willingness to play with themes of mischief and dark humor. Compared to “Rock ’n’ Roll Damnation,” this track is bolder, leaning into edgier territory that helped define the band’s 1970s legacy.
Read More: Complete List Of AC/DC Band Members
#1 – “Highway to Hell” – from Highway to Hell
“Highway to Hell” is the definitive AC/DC anthem, serving as the title track to their 1979 album and the final album featuring Bon Scott. Recorded at Roundhouse Studios and produced by Mutt Lange, “Highway to Hell” was a breakout track that defined the band’s transition into the mainstream while maintaining their hard-edged style. The song’s iconic riff, crafted by Angus Young, combined with Scott’s powerful vocal delivery, creates an unforgettable rock anthem that resonated globally.
Reaching number 47 on the Billboard Hot 100, “Highway to Hell” marked AC/DC’s first entry into the U.S. charts, opening the door for their future success with Brian Johnson. The lyrics, with Scott singing “I’m on the highway to hell,” carry a rebellious spirit, speaking to the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle and the notion of living without compromise. The song’s title and theme stirred some controversy, but for fans, it captured the essence of freedom and living on one’s own terms.
In comparison to other tracks on this list, “Highway to Hell” combines all the elements of AC/DC’s 1970s style—gritty lyrics, powerful riffs, and Bon Scott’s rebellious charm—into a single, defining anthem. Its success solidified AC/DC’s place in rock history, and the track continues to be celebrated as one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
Read More: Complete List Of AC/DC Albums And Discography
10 Best 1970s AC/DC Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024
