Back in Black Is Released

Setting the scene

AC/DC had broken through with Highway to Hell in 1979, but vocalist Bon Scott died in February 1980 after a London night out. The band nearly quit before recruiting Brian Johnson, formerly of Geordie, whose raspy voice fit their blues-rock stomp. They recorded in the Bahamas with producer Mutt Lange.

What happened

Back in Black was released on July 25, 1980, with the title track, You Shook Me All Night Long, and Hells Bells opening with a tolling bell. Johnson's lyrics honored Scott without naming him directly. Angus Young's schoolboy outfit and Malcolm Young's rhythm guitar anchored stadium-ready riffs.

Why it still matters

The album sold an estimated 50 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling albums ever and a permanent arena-rock staple. Its all-black cover mourned Scott while celebrating survival. Memorable detail: Johnson wrote the lyrics to You Shook Me All Night Long in a single night after the band played him the riff in the studio.

Background

You Shook Me All Night Long filled arenas for decades.