It’s one of the most iconic albums of all time. In any popular genre. It’s sold approximately fifty million copies. Making it the third highest selling album of all time. I’m talking of course, about AC/DC’s ‘Back in Black.’ A top to bottom romp of hard rock excellence that will live on forever.
In early 1980 things were looking pretty good for AC/DC. Their most recent album, ‘Highway to Hell’ was a massive success. It brought the band into the mainstream charts and gained them massive amounts of respect and praise. Especially due to their high energy, knock down, drag out shows. The tour went well. And in early 1980, the band took a short break before recording their anticipated follow up. During that time, frontman Bon Scott died due to alcohol poisoning and drowning in his own vomit.
The band was lost for a short period. But regrouped, recruited bad ass Brian Johnson on vocals and got to work on the next album. Recording in the Bahamas, what was to become ‘Back in Black’ began to forge itself. AC/DC were clearly inspired. As the record is a straight top to bottom album. One of the only records that actually deserves its success. From ‘Hells Bells’ to ‘Rock and Roll Ain’t Noise Pollution.’ ‘Back in Black’ is a masterpiece of hard rock. So much so that it’s been played into the ground.
But there are some great deep cut gems sprinkled throughout. ‘Have a Drink On Me,’ ‘Givin’ the Dog A Bone’ and ‘Let Me Put My Love Into You’ remain some of the most mimicked songs of all time. Then, of course, there’s the mega iconic ‘Hells Bells,’ ‘You Shook Me All Night Long’ and the title track. With ‘Shoot to Thrill’ (one of the all time greats) and ‘What You Do for Money Honey’ rounding out the less common concert staples. And then there’s my personal favorite, ‘Shake a Leg.’ A track I really wish would be played live more.
Upon its release, ‘Back in Black’ was not a massive hit out of the gate. But as the weeks and months went on. Steam began to build. The wheels on the train began to roll. And before they new it, AC/DC were the biggest band in the world. And would remain so throughout the rest of their career. Smashing through trends. Defying whatever was popular at the time. With good ole’ honest rock ‘n roll. And it worked. The album alone has sold over 50 million copies. Rivaling the iconic albums of the most prestigious acts. Such as Fleetwood Mac and The Beatles. With ‘Highway to Hell,’ ‘Back in Black’ and its follow up ‘For Those About to Rock…We Salute You,’ AC/DC had outsold Led Zeppelin, KISS, Aerosmith and all other major rock and pop acts.
The status is locked. The influence unmeasurable. At this point the album speaks for itself. One of the true greats.
