OTD 17 Feb. 1975: AC/DC’s first album “High Voltage” was released in Australia 50 years ago today..

OTD 17 Feb. 1975: AC/DC’s first album “High Voltage” was released in Australia 50 years ago today..

On February 17, 1975, Australian rock band AC/DC released their debut album High Voltage in Australia, marking the beginning of a legacy that would make them one of the most influential and iconic rock bands in history. Though it was the band’s first full-length album, High Voltage would set the stage for the explosive sound and style that would become synonymous with AC/DC for decades to come.

Formed in 1973 by brothers Malcolm and Angus Young, the band initially struggled to find a distinct sound, but their raw energy and unmistakable enthusiasm soon garnered attention. By the time High Voltage was ready for release, the band had solidified their lineup with lead vocalist Dave Evans, bassist Larry Van Kriedt, drummer Colin Burgess, and the Young brothers. The album, primarily recorded at the Alberts Studios in Sydney, would go on to shape the sound of Australian rock for generations.

High Voltage was a fusion of hard rock, blues, and straightforward rock and roll, with the raw power of electric guitars and thundering drums, paired with Angus Young’s signature energetic and wild performances. The album included some early tracks that would go on to become staples in AC/DC’s catalog, such as “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)” and “T.N.T.”. These songs exemplified the band’s rebellious, raucous spirit that would come to define their style.

“It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll)” stood out with its brass section and was one of the first songs to capture AC/DC’s unyielding attitude toward the challenges and hardships of life as rock stars. The track’s defiant lyrics — along with its infectious melody and energetic vibe — made it an anthem for the working class and for aspiring musicians who dreamed of making it big.

Another key song, “T.N.T.”, showcased the band’s trademark high-voltage guitar riffs and explosive energy, which would become AC/DC’s calling card throughout their career. The song’s simple but electrifying riff and the catchy, defiant chorus (“T.N.T. / I’m dynamite!”) cemented the track as a classic.

Though High Voltage was a relative commercial success in Australia, it didn’t initially make a major impact outside the country. However, the album garnered enough attention to build a fanbase that would follow the band across the globe in the years to come. The success of High Voltage was only the beginning for AC/DC. In the years following, the band would go on to release landmark albums like Let There Be Rock (1977), Highway to Hell (1979), and Back in Black (1980), achieving worldwide superstardom.

The band’s success story is nothing short of legendary. AC/DC’s brand of rock and roll, defined by simple, yet powerful riffs and the electrifying performances of Angus Young, would captivate generations of fans. Their influence on hard rock and heavy metal is undeniable, with High Voltage marking the beginning of a musical journey that would impact millions of listeners and inspire countless artists.

Looking back 50 years, High Voltage stands as a cornerstone of AC/DC’s remarkable journey and a reminder of the band’s ability to capture the spirit of rock and roll in its purest, most untamed form. Today, AC/DC’s legacy continues to resonate, with High Voltage remaining a timeless symbol of their groundbreaking sound.