The history of rock music is incomplete without the thunderous chords and electrifying performances of AC/DC. Their discography spans an impressive collection of 17 studio albums, each one a unique stepping stone in the band’s evolving journey.
The Australian hard rock band has an iconic presence in the rock scene with a plethora of hits since its inception in 1973. Here’s a tour through AC/DC’s chronicles, from the roots of their rocking beginnings to their enduring legacy.
Contents
- AC/DC Studio Albums In Order
- High Voltage (1975)
- T.N.T. (1975)
- Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (1976)
- Let There Be Rock (1977)
- Powerage (1978)
- Highway to Hell (1979)
- Back in Black (1980)
- For Those About to Rock We Salute You (1981)
- Flick of the Switch (1983)
- Fly on the Wall (1985)
- Blow Up Your Video (1988)
- The Razors Edge (1990)
- Ballbreaker (1995)
- Stiff Upper Lip (2000)
- Black Ice (2008)
- Rock or Bust (2014)
- Power Up (2020)
- Conclusion
AC/DC Studio Albums In Order
AC/DC’s impressive collection of 17 studio albums chronicles the evolution of their signature rock sound. The key albums in chronological order, along with their release dates, are as follows:
High Voltage (1975)
“High Voltage,” AC/DC’s first studio album, marked the genesis of their journey into rock music. Released in 1975, the album showcased the band’s raw energy and distinct style, introducing audiences to their dynamic performances and powerful vocals.
The debut album provided a glimpse into the band’s potential, laying the foundation for their soon-to-be legendary rock legacy.
T.N.T. (1975)
Later in the same year, AC/DC hit the music scene once again with “T.N.T.” The album solidified their presence in the rock scene with its compelling performances and strikingly intense tracks like the titular “T.N.T.”
This album marked the consolidation of the band’s unique sound and paved the way for their ascending popularity.
Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (1976)
The band continued to elevate their dynamic sound in their third studio album, “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” (1976). The album showcased their versatility and included the fan-favorite title track, which has since become synonymous with the band’s trademark energy and spirit.
Let There Be Rock (1977)
“Let There Be Rock,” released in 1977, was another testament to the band’s uncompromising momentum. This album was packed with explosive performances and power-packed riffs that became a staple of AC/DC’s appeal. It reinforced the band’s growing reputation as high-voltage performers.
Powerage (1978)
“Powerage” (1978) marked a shift in AC/DC’s musical journey, displaying a more refined sound and polished production. The album was met with critical acclaim, further solidifying the band’s growing acclaim in the hard rock genre.
Highway to Hell (1979)
With the release of “Highway to Hell” in 1979, AC/DC boldly pushed boundaries and amplified their global influence. The album’s iconic title track became a defining anthem for the band, propelling them to unprecedented heights.
Back in Black (1980)
“Back in Black,” released in 1980, was a triumphant return for AC/DC after the tragic loss of their lead singer, Bon Scott. The album became one of the most influential rock albums of all time, celebrating the band’s resilience and unyielding dedication to their music.
For Those About to Rock We Salute You (1981)
“For Those About to Rock We Salute You,” released in 1981, further cemented their status as rock legends. The album featured thrilling anthems such as the title track, showcasing the band’s consistent energy and infectious enthusiasm.
Flick of the Switch (1983)
This album deviated from the highly produced sound of their previous records, taking a raw, stripped-back approach that was both daring and audacious. Self-produced by the band, it was a testament to their versatility and desire for creative control.
Songs like “Nervous Shakedown” and “Deep in the Hole” displayed a simplicity in sound while maintaining the high-energy performances that fans had come to expect.
Fly on the Wall (1985)
The spirit of exploration continued into 1985 with “Fly on the Wall.” This album maintained the band’s self-production approach, further asserting their independence in the musical landscape. Despite a mixed critical reception, “Fly on the Wall” showcased AC/DC’s commitment to their unique sound.
Blow Up Your Video (1988)
“Blow Up Your Video,” released in 1988, saw AC/DC returning to working with outside producers Harry Vanda and George Young, who had previously worked on some of their most successful early albums. This album marked a resurgence of the band’s classic sound, blending the experimental aspects of their mid-’80s work with their hard rock roots.
It resulted in hits like “Heatseeker” and “That’s the Way I Wanna Rock ‘n’ Roll,” which have since become fan favorites.
The Razors Edge (1990)
“The Razors Edge” (1990) brought AC/DC back into the spotlight with chart-topping tracks such as “Thunderstruck.” The album marked a resurgence for the band, reigniting their rock spirit and reasserting their prominence in the music world.
Ballbreaker (1995)
“Ballbreaker” (1995) marked another significant milestone with the return of drummer Phil Rudd. Despite the changing times and evolving music scene, the album maintained the band’s signature powerful sound, reminding fans of their undying essence.
Stiff Upper Lip (2000)
Entering the new millennium, AC/DC released “Stiff Upper Lip” in 2000. This album revealed a more blues-infused sound while maintaining the band’s signature hard rock hooks, further showcasing their versatility and adaptability.
Black Ice (2008)
After an eight-year gap, AC/DC stormed back onto the scene with “Black Ice” in 2008. The album was a multi-platinum success, featuring hard-hitting riffs and catchy songs that reasserted AC/DC’s prowess in the world of hard rock.
Rock or Bust (2014)
Despite lineup changes and challenges, AC/DC demonstrated their enduring relevance with “Rock or Bust” in 2014. The album re-established their position in the rock music scene, proving that their electrifying performances and distinct sound remained timeless.
Power Up (2020)
In their most recent studio album, “Power Up” (2020), AC/DC reaffirmed their monumental legacy with a strong return to their roots. This album serves as a testament to the band’s enduring energy and steadfast commitment to rock music.
Conclusion
The legendary journey of AC/DC stands as a reminder of the power of music, and their extraordinary catalogue of studio albums continues to inspire rock enthusiasts around the globe.
As we await what’s next for this iconic band, one thing remains clear: AC/DC’s legacy will forever be etched in the bedrock of rock music.
AC/DC Featured Image by: Teodoromix, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
