Inducted:
2003
Category:
Performer
Inducted By:
Steven Tyler (Aerosmith)
Since 1975, the Aussie quintet has delivered multiple albums of scorched-earth anthems, rarely deviating from a template of headbanging guitar riffs, piledriver drums and banshee vocals. Over decades, AC/DC has carved out a niche between punky hard rock and heavy metal, inspiring countless musicians with crank-up-the-volume radio staples “Highway to Hell,” “Back in Black,” and “You Shook Me All Night Long.”
Induction
Impact
That thunder from Down Under grabs you in the lower 40 and gives you the second most satisfying surge that can run through your body.
Steven Tyler
Aerosmith
signature sound
High-Voltage Rock, Primal and Loud
Beginning with gritty blues rock and singer Bon Scott’s devious howl, Aussie fivesome AC/DC offered a raw, proto-punk alternative to overblown ‘70s fare. After Scott’s untimely passing, vocal powerhouse Brian Johnson led the quintet to ‘80s arena stardom – more streamlined, anthemic and radio-ready, but no less edgy. Their distinctive combo of heavy riffs, infectious melodies and racy lyrics remains timeless.
Perhaps the only rock & roll song with a bagpipe solo, this tune documents the band’s struggles and triumphs. It was retired after singer Bon Scott’s death.
2003 hall of fame essay
"While AC/DC might be surprised to find themselves in such rarefied company, the composers of “Big Balls,” “Hard as a Rock” and “Let Me Put My Love Into You” clearly understand as well as anyone the primal truths that lie at the heart of great poetry."
– Brad Tolinski
Check It OutInfluence
Influences
The Easybeats
Slade
Status Quo
AC/DC
sealed with a signature
This is the signature that appears on the inductee’s plaque at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to officially commemorate their induction.
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