AC/DC is a legendary Australian rock band that has left an indelible mark on the music world since its formation in 1973. Known for their electrifying performances and high-energy sound, the band has become synonymous with hard rock, blues rock, and heavy metal, although they themselves prefer to label their music simply as "rock and roll." With a career spanning decades, AC/DC is recognized as one of the best-selling music artists of all time, having sold over 200 million records worldwide. Their influence is extensive, with many citing them as a foundational force behind the new wave of British heavy metal.

The band was founded by brothers Angus and Malcolm Young in Sydney, Australia, alongside initial members Colin Burgess, Larry Van Kriedt, and Dave Evans. Their debut album, "High Voltage," released in 1975, was initially available only in Australia. However, it set the stage for the band's rising fame. The line-up stabilized after the release of "Let There Be Rock" in 1977, which marked the beginning of a partnership that included Phil Rudd on drums, Cliff Williams on bass, and Bon Scott as the lead vocalist. The band's sound was characterized by powerful guitar riffs and dynamic rhythms, solidifying their reputation in the rock genre.

Tragedy struck in 1980 when Bon Scott passed away from alcohol poisoning, a mere seven months after the release of their iconic album "Highway to Hell." In a remarkable turn, the band recruited English singer Brian Johnson as their new frontman. Their first collaboration, "Back in Black," was a tribute to Scott and quickly became a monumental success, becoming the second best-selling album of all time. Following this, "For Those About to Rock" became their first album to reach number one on the Billboard 200, further cementing their status in the music industry.

AC/DC faced various challenges throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including line-up changes and personal struggles. Phil Rudd was replaced during the recording of "Flick of the Switch" in 1983, but the band saw a resurgence with the release of "The Razors Edge" in 1990, which was their only album to feature drummer Chris Slade. Rudd eventually returned to the band in 1994, and they continued to produce hits, including "Ballbreaker" in 1995 and "Black Ice" in 2008, which marked their highest chart performance since the early 1980s.

The band's history took another poignant turn in 2014 when Malcolm Young retired due to early-onset dementia, leading to his eventual passing in 2017. During this period, Angus and Malcolm’s nephew, Stevie Young, joined the band, debuting on "Rock or Bust." The tour that followed saw Chris Slade stepping in for Rudd, who faced legal issues. In 2016, the band’s frontman Brian Johnson had to step back from touring due to health concerns, prompting Axl Rose of Guns N' Roses to fill in for the remaining dates.

After a two-year hiatus, AC/DC announced a reunion of the "Rock or Bust" lineup in September 2020, unveiling their seventeenth studio album, "Power Up," which was well-received by fans and critics alike. The album's release was followed by plans for a supporting tour, scheduled to begin in February 2024, with drummer Matt Laug and bassist Chris Chaney stepping in for Rudd and Williams, who retired. Despite these changes, AC/DC remains a formidable force in the world of rock music, continuing to captivate audiences with their powerful sound and dynamic performances.